Both the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt and Nissan Leaf get you around without a drop of gas. But which of these EVs is right for your daily drive? Our comparison guide takes a close look at everything you need to know – from battery range to seating comfort – to help you choose the EV that’s right for you.
Longest Battery Range: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt
To drive the longest without stopping, you’re going to need the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt. This EV’s electric motor is powered by a 66-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which in turn gives you 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. In addition to peppy acceleration, the Bolt’s powertrain provides an estimated 259-mile driving range.
The Nissan Leaf offers two different battery options. The base 40-kWh battery gives you an estimated 150 miles of driving range. Upgrade to the new Leaf Plus model for a 60-kWh battery that extends driving range almost as far as the standard Bolt battery can take you – to 226 miles.
Commuter Comfort: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt
The Bolt’s two trim models – LT and Premier – put a major emphasis on long-term comfort. If you’re shopping for the comfiest commuter EV, this is it. The Bolt’s front seats are nicely contoured for support and important controls are within easy reach of the driver’s seat. The height-adjustable driver’s seat and telescoping steering wheel make it easy for people of all shapes and sizes to find the perfect spot at the wheel.
You’ll find more than enough head and legroom in the Nissan Leaf’s front seats. The ride is also smooth – a very nice touch, especially if you have a long drive ahead of you each day. But, while the Leaf has made a lot of tech upgrades for 2020, it still lacks a telescoping steering wheel. And some drivers may wish for more small-item storage – especially up front – for items like wallets and smartphones.
Best Tech Interface: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt
Both models come standard with everything you want in an infotainment system – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, color touchscreens, and voice controls.
However, the Bolt’s setup is infinitely more likeable, thanks to a user-friendly interface and easy-to-figure-out menu structure. It even features a bigger, 10.2-inch standard touchscreen (the Leaf’s version is 8 inches). The Bolt’s standard lineup also includes more in commuter-friendly conveniences, like keyless start and a high-definition rearview camera.
Standard Safety Aids: 2020 Nissan Leaf
With its newly standard Safety Shield 360 package, this year’s Leaf enhances your daily drive. The package includes safety aids like lane-departure warning, pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and rear automatic braking. These features (except for rear automatic braking) are also available for the Chevy Bolt. However, they are optional equipment for the Bolt, so shoppers must pay a little extra to get them.
Although we admire the Nissan Leaf’s new features lineup, the Chevrolet Bolt is this contest’s ultimate EV. In addition to traveling further on one battery charge, the Bolt wraps you in comfort and keeps you connected with its savvy infotainment lineup.