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2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV

3 Reasons You Should Buy a Chevrolet Bolt Over a Tesla Model 3

Comparing a Chevrolet Bolt to a Tesla Model 3 is almost like comparing a Honda Civic to a Ferrari; the Bolt is outclassed, out-performed, and out-numbered when it comes to features. However, just like David beat Goliath, there is a chance that Chevy’s unassuming electric hatchback could actually hold a candle to an electric-car champion …

Comparing a Chevrolet Bolt to a Tesla Model 3 is almost like comparing a Honda Civic to a Ferrari; the Bolt is outclassed, out-performed, and out-numbered when it comes to features. However, just like David beat Goliath, there is a chance that Chevy’s unassuming electric hatchback could actually hold a candle to an electric-car champion like the Model 3. As such, here are three reasons why you could be better off buying a Chevy Bolt over a Tesla Model 3.

It’s cheaper

When configuring a Tesla Model 3, the pricing part can seem a little confusing. That’s mainly due to them throwing in an “after potential savings” caveat to the price, which includes how much you could save by not using gasoline as well as any incentives.

If you check out the build configurator for the Chevy Bolt, on the other hand, it’s a little more straight-forward. Chevy does factor in incentives and discounts, but it’s clearly shown.

Speaking of pricing, you can currently get a Chevy Bolt between $30,000 to $35,000 depending on the options and trim that you choose, which comes in far less than a standard Model 3 and far less than a decked-out one.

2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV

It’s more widely available

When you buy a Tesla Model 3, you have to configure the car and order it. They then build it for you, but that could take weeks, if not a month, for it to finally get to you. On the other hand, the Chevy  Bolt is much more available.

Do you want a Bolt right now? No problem, just call up your local Chevrolet dealer and they’ll be happy to sell you one. They probably have a variety of colors on the lot and luckily, Chevy doesn’t charge you extra for the usual primary colors.

Do you want a red or blue Tesla? Sure thing! That will only cost you an extra $1,000.

A blue Tesla Model 3 is a displayed at a car event
Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images

It’s a better value

Considering the Chevy Bolt is priced in the low $30,000 range, you get a lot more for your money over the Tesla. At least in terms of your basic safety needs.

If you opt for the Bolt’s higher Premier trim level, you’ll get features like rear park assist, a surround-view camera, a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, a rearview camera mirror, and extra storage via a false cargo floor.

To get the more advanced safety features, like adaptive cruise control and lane assist, then you need to opt for an extra package, but at least only costs $495. Compare that to the Tesla’s $7,000 driver-assist package (which is NOT a self-driving mode), and you’ll what mean by “value.”

Speaking of storage, the Chevy Bolt does have 56 cubic-feet of cargo room, with the rear seats folded down. Thanks to its hatchback shape, the Bolt offers more versatility for your occupants and all their stuff.

2019 Chevrlet Bolt EV

Apples to oranges

We’re fully aware that these two cars are completely different, aside from being all-electric platforms. The Model 3 comes in rear or all-wheel-drive, it’s more powerful, and it’s tech features are second to none.

However, the Chevrolet Bolt is more affordable, more practical, and comes with a lot of the same safety features at a fraction of the cost.

On top of all that, you can still expect to get about 250 miles on a single charge, which is pretty much all you would need. So it’s you want to drive an electric car, and would rather stick to the basics as opposed to getting super fancy, and super expensive, we recommend the Chevy Bolt over the Model 3.

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