2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Review: The Beginner-Friendly EV

• 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV: The electric Bolt hatchback’s crossover cousin
• What trims and features does the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV offer?
• Driving the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier: The easy EV experience
• Does this electric crossover have enough range and space for road trips?
• How safe is the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier, with and without Super Cruise?
• Should you buy a 2022 one or get the 2023 version?
• MotorBiscuit gives the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier an expert rating of 8.8 out of 10

• 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV ($34,495-$38,995 before rebates)
• “The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is a better Bolt”—Road & Track
• Pro: An affordable electric crossover that’s efficient, easy to live with, and offers hands-free driving with Super Cruise
• Con: One-Pedal Driving makes the physical brakes feel weak, extensive highway driving drops range, and a few cheap-feeling interior materials

“Am I prepared to buy an electric car?” More and more people, especially first-time EV window shoppers, will likely ask themselves that in the next few years. And particularly for those first-timers, it’s an intimidating decision. But for every EV that dazzles with flashy tech, wild styling, or crazy acceleration, there’s one that’s just…a car, albeit electric. I drove one of those EVs, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier, around Chicagoland recently. And while it’s not the fastest or sleekest electric car, it should endear itself to EV newbies.

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV: The electric Bolt hatchback’s crossover cousin

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier’s electric motor hardware | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

Although the ‘EUV’ may suggest ‘electric SUV’, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is really an electric crossover. It’s basically a 2022 Bolt hatchback with a different body, taller ride height, and longer and wider platform. So, like the Bolt, it’s only available in FWD form; there’s no AWD option. But the platform stretch gives it more rear legroom and cargo space than the hatchback.

Depending on who you ask, there’s a downside to sharing so much with the Bolt besides the lack of AWD. Unlike some EVs, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV doesn’t have a frunk. Instead, you’ll find the electric motor hardware, as well as the typical windshield washer and coolant reservoirs there. But that’s not an oversight—it’s deliberate.

A Chevy spokesperson told me that putting all that hardware there “allows for better access and it also allows us to maximize the interior space of the vehicle.” Yet I’d argue there’s another benefit to this layout: normalcy. It makes the Bolt EUV feel like a ‘regular’ crossover, just one that happens to be electric.

However, the Bolt EUV has other advantages over the Bolt hatchback besides extra space. And that’s particularly apparent once you get to the higher trim.

What trims and features does the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV offer?

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier front interior | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV rear interior | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

Like the Bolt, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is available in two trims:

• LT: $34,495 ($28,195 after rebate)
• Premier: $38,995 ($32,695 after rebate)

Please note that these are the prices at the time of writing after a $995 destination charge. The Premier tester I had listed its base price at $37,500 before destination. Also, Chevrolet is offering rebates for 2022 Bolt and Bolt EUV buyers due to the 2023 cars’ lower prices. With that rebate, my tester would cost $36,890.

Regardless of trim, all 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUVs come standard with the following notable features:

• Dual-level charger cord
• 8.0” digital driver display
• 10.2” touchscreen
• Wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
• Wireless charging pad
• LED headlights, taillights, DRLs
• Heated mirrors
• Automatic climate control
• Rear-seat reminder
• One-Pedal Driving Mode with regen-on-demand steering paddle
• Remote start
• 60/40-folding rear seats
• Chevy Safety Assist
• Roof rails

On top of these features, my Bolt EUV Premier tester had the following standard features and options:

• Standard:
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Power-operated front seats
  • Heated rear seats
  • Leather-wrapped heated steering wheel
• Options:
  • Sun & Sound Package ($2495)
    • Seven-speaker Bose audio system
    • Dual-panel power sunroof
    • Navigation
  • Super Cruise ($2200)
    • Enhanced automatic emergency braking
    • Super Cruise Level 2 partially-autonomous driving suite

That last option is the other key differentiator between the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and the Bolt. The 2022 Bolt EUV is the first non-Cadillac to offer GM’s Super Cruise technology. Sadly, its electrical architecture doesn’t allow for automatic lane changes. But still, first is first. And having it makes driving the Bolt EUV even less strenuous.

Driving the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier: The easy EV experience

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier touchscreen | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

A 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier’s digital gauge cluster | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier rear 3/4 | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

If you’ve watched one too many Tesla drag race videos, stepping on the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV’s accelerator might underwhelm you. Admittedly, Car and Driver beat Chevy’s 0-60 claim, doing the deed in 6.8 seconds. But compared to the F-150 Lightning, which is bigger, heavier, and, oh yeah, a truck, that’s not exactly lightning-fast.

However, for a commuter car that’s supposed to ease people into EV ownership, the Bolt EUV is more than quick enough. Furthermore, thanks to its instant torque, it steps off the line faster than a similarly-sized ICE crossover. After all, it doesn’t need to rev its engine or shift any gears. Just put your foot down and off you smoothly and quietly go.

‘Smooth and quiet’ is a great way to describe the rest of the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier experience. It vibrates a bit over large impacts, but the ride is well-damped and never harsh. In addition, because its battery pack is part of the floor, it handles corners surprisingly well. You won’t be embarrassing any Macans, but there’s little body roll. And in Sport Mode—yes, there’s a Sport Mode—the Bolt EUV’s steering perks up nicely with more weight and faster reflexes. The engine, er, motor response picks up, too.

But that’s not where the Chevrolet Bolt EUV shines. It’s best when you leave it in Normal Mode, turn on One-Pedal Driving, and go about your day. Yes, the steering’s almost too light, but that’s a boon on tight Chicago streets. And I could practically feel my blood pressure lowering, even in Chicago traffic, with how quiet the interior is. Though that might also be from how the driver’s display lights up green when you drive economically.

Also, while the brake pedal is too light initially when OPD is on, you only really use them in panic situations. The regenerative braking feels utterly organic in how it slows you down, it’s that well-calibrated. I now understand why EV brakes rust from disuse.

No, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier won’t set your hair on fire or win any speed records. But this electric crossover makes one heck of a commuter car.

Does this electric crossover have enough range and space for road trips?

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV at Electrify America charging station rear 3/4 | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier cargo space | Matthew Skwarczek, MotorBiscuit

Sometimes, though, even city dwellers venture further afield. But will they be able to bring their 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premiers along? Well, with a few caveats, yes.

For one, I had three full-grown adults in the rear seats at one point. On a multi-hour trip, I’d recommend sticking to two rear passengers. Also, make sure they’re not too tall; the sloping roofline might pose a problem for those over six feet. But even so, I didn’t hear any complaints with all rear seats filled.

Secondly, because its battery is under the floor and the motor’s under the hood, the 2022 Bolt EUV is decently spacious for a small crossover. The rear cargo area, which looks tiny at first, becomes respectable once you take the charger cord’s storage space cover off. And Car and Driver got six carry-on suitcases in there.

Also, because it doesn’t need a shifter, the Bolt EUV has a center-console cubby area. And I can confirm that even enthusiastic cornering won’t shift your stuff if you put it there. But I’ll also note that the plastic sides of the cubby feel a bit cheap.

In addition, although it can’t go as far as the Bolt on a charge, the Bolt EUV’s range is solid. True, Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway testing only saw the crossover get 190 miles of range. However, if your trip involves some city driving, I have great news. The EPA estimates the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV gets 125 mpge in the city. But I saw 175 mpge during my time with the Bolt EUV, likely thanks to OPD.

The real road-trip issue, though, is finding and using public charging stations. On one hand, the Bolt EUV’s navigation makes finding stations easy. Furthermore, it has a CCS charging system, which is the U.S. charging standard. And it can add up to 95 miles of range in 30 minutes on a DC fast charger. However, that’s assuming said charger is fully operational, with a functioning credit card or NFC reader. The first charger I went to didn’t have functioning readers; luckily, I had the right app.

So, yes, you can take the Chevrolet Bolt EUV on road trips loaded with people and their stuff. But you’ll have to think ahead if you’re driving for more than a few hours. And stick to routes with multiple charging options.

How safe is the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier, with and without Super Cruise?

There is one thing that should make road trips easier, though: Super Cruise. Activating it in the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV takes two button presses and three steps. Once again, beginner-friendly stuff. And though you must pay attention while it’s on, Super Cruise is a boon for commuters and long-distance drivers.

For one, it lets you pick up dropped food and bags worry-free. Need to change a radio station, plug in a phone, or do a quick once-over in the mirror? Super Cruise lets you do that. Worried that your attention is wandering after hours on the interstate? Super Cruise can help. Again, only for a few seconds because it absolutely isn’t full self-driving. But it’s genuinely worth getting in the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier for the extra mental safety net alone.

Regarding overall safety, as of this writing, the IIHS and NHTSA haven’t tested the Bolt EUV. However, all 2022 Bolt EUVs come standard with the following advanced driver-assistance safety features:

• Automatic emergency braking
• HD backup camera
• Lane change alert with side blind-zone alert
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear parking assist
• Teen Driver Mode
• Pedestrian detection

The Bolt EUV Premier adds adaptive cruise control and an HD 360° camera system to that. Also, I’m happy to report that its pedestrian detection system also detects cyclists and motorcyclists.

Should you buy a 2022 one or get the 2023 version?

As noted earlier, Chevrolet has slashed the Bolt EUV’s price for 2023. The electric crossover now starts at just over $28K. Also, both the LT and Premier come in Redline Edition form for 2023. So, should you skip over the 2022 model and get the 2023 one? Well, not necessarily.

For one, thanks to the rebate, the 2022 Bolt EUV costs the same as the 2023 one. Secondly, the Redline Edition is just a cosmetic package; it doesn’t add any mechanical or luxury features. And apart from that, the 2022 model is identical to the 2023 one.

In addition, both the 2022 and 2023 Bolt EUV qualify for Chevrolet’s Level 2 charger outlet program. If you buy either electric crossover, Chevy will install a 240-volt outlet in your home or garage for free. A dedicated home station still costs extra, but you don’t necessarily need one with the Bolt EUV. Remember that dual-level charger cord I mentioned? It works with Level 1 and Level 2 outlets, hence the name.

MotorBiscuit gives the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier an expert rating of 8.8 out of 10

The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier isn’t a perfect EV. Besides a few cheaper-feeling interior materials, it could use some brake tweaking when OPD is active. And long-distance drivers will have to deal with public charging headaches. However, its affordability, ease of use, and Super Cruise capability make it an excellent first EV, particularly for urban drivers. It’s not flashy or speedy, but it’s great at getting the electric job done.

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Keyword: 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Review: The Beginner-Friendly EV