The 2016 Chevrolet Volt is even Volt-ier than we expected: According to figures from the EPA, the second generation of its plug-in hybrid can travel 53 miles on electric charge before its range extender kicks in. That’s up substantially (at least as far as these sorts of things are concerned) over the outgoing model, which could travel a stated 38 miles in EV mode, and just a bit higher than the figures we reported earlier this year. The 2016 Volt combines its 18.4-kWh lithium-ion battery with new gasoline-burning 1.5-liter range-extending engine for a total range of 420 miles. On electricity alone, the Volt achieves a stated 106 MPGe; on regular gas, the 1.5-liter returns 42 mpg. You can see it all on the EPA-official sticker below. Go ahead and print off a couple copies to give to your friends -- you’re going to want to keep the original nice and minty to show off in your window at Cars ‘n Coffee 2065.
Suitable for framing.
All that compares favorably to the respective 98 MPGe and 37 mpg claimed for the outgoing Volt. But EPA ratings usually only hold up if you get behind the wheel like a miserly test driver. And we, uh, don’t usually drive like that around these parts. Still, our tests have revealed that the 2015 Volt can meet or exceed projected efficiencies without being a total drag to drive -- all without any of the pesky range anxiety that comes when you cut the internal combustion cord entirely. We still expect 2016 Volt pricing to start at $33,995, though the typical buyer will pay much less; outside of California, it could be as low as $26,495 after all federal incentives are taken into account. Inside the Golden State, buyers could be on the hook for just $24,995 once both federal and California incentives are factored in.Beyond, your initial outlay could be a little higher if you want to top your Volt off quickly. To take full advantage of the quick 4.5-hour recharge time, you’ll need a 240V outlet in your garage (on the 120V teat, it’s more like 13 hours). After that, though, you shouldn’t have to visit the gas station very much at all: Since the 53-mile EV range is enough for over 90 percent of the average driver’s daily needs, according to Chevy, most owners will only have to add unleaded every 1,000 miles or so. We’ll do our best to verify once we can get our hands on one, provided our patience doesn’t wear out first. Expect to see the 2016 Volt on dealer lots later this year.
