Smart buyers of environmentally friendly cars often find themselves choosing between the Chevrolet Bolt of Nissan Leaf. Both manufacturers have done a great job of increasing the range of their eco-friendly vehicles. Either would make a perfectly serviceable daily driver for commuters who want to minimize fuel usage and emissions.
The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt does have a slightly higher starting price than the Leaf does, but it more than makes up for the difference by offering significantly more innovative features. You get what you pay for, and Chevy’s attention to detail gives the Bolt an advantage.
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WHAT’S NEW?
The 2018 Nissan Leaf sees a massive improvement in the form of a bigger range. Nissan included a 40 kWh battery in every model. This dramatic increase brings the range up to roughly 150 miles of range according to the EPA. Although it’s trending in the right direction, the Leaf’s range still falls significantly short of the 238 miles the Bolt offers.
Because the 2018 Chevy Bolt only debuted in 2017, there are minor changes like a more upscale interior. Considering the 2017 model is already very attractive and user-friendly, there isn’t much room for improvement anyway.
Download BrochureTHE EXTERIOR
The redesigned Leaf offers a slight reprieve from the bizarre looks that plagued previous editions. The front end of the car still has a somewhat awkward slope that creates a lack of aesthetic balance. Questionable ridges on the hood have critics wondering if it was an aerodynamic necessity or a misguided design choice.
The Bolt EV nailed its appearance on the first go-round. It has a small footprint that makes parking and urban driving a breeze. Aesthetically, it looks just as good as any other small hatchback or crossover.
Download BrochureTHE INTERIOR
The interior is a real soft spot for the 2018 Nissan Leaf. This is where the manufacturer saved on cost, and it shows. The materials certainly don’t do justice to the technological achievement. The portable charger takes up enough space to hurt the flexibility of the vehicle.
The Chevy Bolt strives for a much more luxurious experience. The heated steering wheel turns on automatically when the temperature dips below a certain point. The ample head and legroom in the back seat makes transporting five adults a viable option.
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The Nissan offers some redeeming qualities in this arena by bringing excellent driver aid to the table. The Leaf knows when you take your hands off the wheel, and it prompts you to bring them back. It even adjusts to the speed of traffic to help avoid collisions.
However, keep in mind that Chevrolet is not to be outdone when it comes to matters of safety. Car and Driver raves about the active safety features, and the Bolt EV earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.
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FIND OUT WHICH CAR IS BEST FOR YOU
Both these eco-friendly options are both so spectacular, it can be nearly impossible to tell the difference just by reading about them. The differences become much more apparent when you see the cars in person and take them for a test drive.
Once you experience how each of these cars handles and how comfortable they make you feel, you can make a confident purchase decision. Find the closest Chevy Bolt in Central Arizona at your neighborhood Valley Chevy dealership.
Download BrochureTHE CHEVY BOLT OR NISSAN LEAF: WHICH IS BEST?
The Nissan Leaf is much better in 2018 than it has been in any previous year. The increase in range is bringing it toward relevance in the eco-friendly car conversation.
It does better at meeting consumer needs than many of its competitors, but it just can’t keep up with the Chevy Bolt. The Bolt EV is at the top of its class for range, performance, and safety. Once you become an owner of a 2018 Chevrolet Bolt, you will understand exactly why this car is the clear choice between these two models.
2.5L
ENGINESTANDARD
30
MPGHWY10
17"
ALUMINUMWHEELS