Checking in with the crew over at Consumer Reports once again proves that Chevy is constantly cornering the car market when it comes to rewards and accolades. In this case, a particular Chevy model nabbed the second-place spot for best commuter car. Fortunately, when it comes to buying this bowtie beauty used, you’ve got several compelling model years to choose from.
So, without further adieu, let’s take a look at why the Chevy Volt might just be the best travel companion you’ll ever have when it comes to conquering the concrete jungle and possibly evening enjoying your commute. There’s a novel idea!
The Chevy Volt –
First introduced in 2010 for the 2011 model year, the Chevy Volt quickly claimed the reputation as the most fuel efficient compact car in America, which thrilled the environmentally-concerned consumers, all of whom are eager and committed to reducing their carbon footprints. Able to seat four passengers comfortably, which allows for carpooling (another green initiative aimed at fewer cars on the road), the Volt is quick, quiet, and stylish.
Initially able to boast an average 35-mile all electric range, the Volt’s 1.4-liter engine boosted that range by an additional 315 miles, resulting in an average 99 mpg from the electric source, and 32 mpg from premium gasoline. Relying on a 120-volt power source, the Volt takes ten hours to charge, which drops drastically down to four hours if you can plug into a 240-volt outlet instead.
For the 2015 model year, Chevy enhanced the batter from 16 to 17.1 kWh, thus increasing the Volt’s overall electric range. In fact, the new Volt’s released for the 2016 model year, claim a 53-mile pure electric range, so an added 18 miles right out of the gate.
Originally priced to start at $40,280, 2011 Volts are easy to snap up at prices closer to the $12K mark. But, no matter which used model year of the Volt you choose, just driving a Volt is a money-saver, at least according to Consumer Reports subscribers, three of whom reported the following:
“Essentially I gave myself a raise. My electric bill increased about $100 overall. However my employer has free charging stations at work, so I no longer pay the cost of commuting home. The HOV sticker took me about 60 seconds to appreciate.”
“Able to complete my daily commute using no gas on most days. The car is much more comfortable than I anticipated. Nice to see an American manufacturer stepping up to the plate with a great EV.”
“My wife uses this car for her daily commute. She can do so easily on battery alone, even on the coldest days. We then recharge overnight in the garage at a fraction of the cost of a gasoline powered vehicle. The car is smooth, comfortable and quiet.”
Depending on the proximity of your home to your office, you, too, might discover that a used Chevy Volt more than meets your commuting needs. Wouldn’t it be nice to pocket some extra money and maybe start a vacation fund from the money saved on gasoline fill-ups?
Give green a try in a used Chevy Volt – we’re certain it will look great on you!
