Flash Drive: 2013 Chevy Volt

By Bruce Caldwell

Model Tested: 2013 Chevrolet Volt 4dr Sedan

Engine: Electric motor 149-hp, 273-lb/ft plus 1.4-liter 4-cylinder gas engine, 84-hp, 92-lb-ft

Transmission: CVT automatic, Front Wheel Drive

EPA Ratings: 98-mpg electric (38 mile range)/37-mpg gasoline only

Base Price: $39,145

As Tested: $43,375

Performance: Smooth and quiet (almost too quiet in electric mode). Four-hour recharge rate with 240-volt charging station. Non-traditional brake feel. Seamless transition between electric and gas modes

Comfort: Excellent front passenger room

                Great long distance comfort for front passengers

                Very tight rear seat, low ceiling, limited knee room

Utility: Modest cargo capacity

            High lift-over

            Below average size interior storage bins

WOW Factors: Phenomenal fuel economy

                          Very high tech; well executed

                          8-year/100,000 mile battery/Voltec components warrant

Whines: Slow recharging (12-15 hours) on standard household current

               Strictly four-passenger due to huge center tunnel

               Information display borders on overload

               Odd, electronic emergency brake

Bottom Line: The 2013 Chevy Volt is one electric vehicle that makes sense for our expansive country thanks to its gasoline backup engine. Chevrolet calls the Volt an extended range electric vehicle and that’s a perfect description. It provides all the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range anxiety.