While everything from potato chips to SUVs is more expensive these days, Chevrolet has entered the chat with its Bolt EUV. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is a compact SUV that’s actually a lot of fun to drive and is one of the cheapest electric SUVs you can buy. Considering the technology, safety systems, and decent range, the Bolt EUV is a standout choice.

What is the best compact SUV under $30,000?

If the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV wasn’t on your list of best compact SUVs, maybe it should be. When U.S. News listed the sportiest SUVs under $30,000, the Bolt EUV landed at the top. The “EUV” stands for electric utility vehicle, but the Bolt is an electric small crossover SUV. Don’t try to put this vehicle in just one category, as it excels in a few.

Even though the Chevrolet Bolt is a practical and affordable vehicle, it is actually quite fun to drive too. Electric cars tend to be more spirited due to how motors can accelerate at insane speeds. Chevy’s powertrain for the Bolt is a 65-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor with 200 horsepower combined. The zero to 60 mph time is seven seconds, a respectable amount.

Another benefit of the electric EUV is the regenerative braking system. This slows the Bolt when you take your foot off the accelerator and helps recharge the battery with conserved energy. This system takes a bit to get used to but adds to the fun behind the wheel.

What is the tax credit for the compact SUV in 2023?

Chevy’s electric compact SUV is still eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit as long as the MSRP stays under $55,000. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV price starts at $27,200, while a fully loaded one is only $31,700. On the base LT Bolt, you get an eight-inch digital cluster, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Standard safety features include forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. Lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist are also standard on the base electric utility vehicle.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Bolt EUV a five-star safety rating. It earned high marks in the frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. In addition, the safety systems passed all of the NHTSA performance criteria.

What’s the range for the Chevy Bolt EUV?

The compact SUV gets 247 miles of range on a full charge. That’s respectable, especially considering how cheap the 2023 Bolt EUV is. If you plan to use a regular outlet, the Bolt charges pretty slowly. A 120-volt plug will add four miles of range in an hour, but using a 240-volt outlet and upgraded cord will charge it in 10 hours. A home charger will be faster. The EPA says it costs around $550 a year to charge it, adding to the reasons the Bolt EUV gives you plenty of bang for your buck.

Thanks to those reasons, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV is an excellent compact SUV choice for those looking for an EV that doesn’t compromise on performance, technology, or interior space. Its extended range, advanced features, and competitive pricing make it a compelling option in the growing market of electric vehicles.