Its popularity stems from its extended electric range (around 53 miles), allowing many drivers to complete daily commutes solely on electric power, and its gasoline engine provides extended range capabilities.
The Good
The 2018 Volt offers a compelling blend of practicality and enjoyment.
Performance: It provides brisk acceleration and a smooth, quiet ride.
Efficiency: Boasts excellent fuel economy and significant electric range.
Value: Appeals to practical buyers with its low running costs, while its modern design and technology can satisfy emotional desires for an eco-friendly vehicle.
The Bad
The 2018 Volt's main weaknesses include a relatively small rear seat that can feel cramped for adults, especially on longer trips.
Cargo space is adequate but not exceptional compared to some other hatchbacks.
Some owners have reported issues with the electronic systems, including the infotainment screen and charging system, so careful inspection is recommended.
2018 Chevrolet Volt: Quick Overview
2018 Chevrolet Volt Key Specs:
- Engine: 1.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive unit.
- Horsepower: Total system output of 149 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 42 MPG combined (gasoline only), 106 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined (electric + gasoline).
- Electric Range: Approximately 53 miles on electric power alone.
- 0-60 mph: Around 8.4 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim Levels & Features:
- LT: Standard features include keyless open/start, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rearview camera, automatic climate control, and driver information center.
- Premier: Adds leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, Bose premium audio system, automatic parking assist, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
2018 Chevrolet Volt Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Volt |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ORION |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L3A - Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing, Hybrid GEN 1 |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Chevrolet Volt Have?
Another area of concern can be the battery management system, although major battery failures are relatively rare. Some owners have noted degradation in battery capacity over time, leading to reduced electric range, especially in extreme temperatures.
Recalls for the 2018 Volt have been relatively minor, primarily focusing on software updates related to safety systems or minor component replacements.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the complex hybrid drivetrain. While generally durable, the electric motors, generator, and related components require specialized maintenance and repairs that can be more costly than those for a traditional gasoline engine. Regular servicing, including fluid checks and software updates, is crucial for maintaining the Volt's long-term reliability.
How long will the 2018 Chevrolet Volt last?
Many owners report over 10 years of reliable service.
Proper maintenance, including timely oil changes for the gasoline engine, coolant flushes, and adherence to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, is critical.
Long-term durability depends heavily on battery health. Gradual degradation in battery capacity over time is normal, but extreme heat or frequent fast charging can accelerate this process. Monitoring battery health and addressing any charging-related issues promptly can extend the battery's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Infotainment: It features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard. It has Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
Driver-Assistance: Available driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic parking assist, and forward collision alert with low-speed automatic braking.
Safety: Standard safety features include a rearview camera, antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags.
Optional Features: Optional features include a Bose premium audio system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies mentioned above.
Crash Test Ratings: The 2018 Chevrolet Volt performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS awarded it a "Top Safety Pick" rating, indicating good performance in crashworthiness tests. These ratings make it a safe pick for families and individuals alike. It includes features like lane departure warning, forward collision alert and low speed automatic braking.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Chevrolet Volt Prices and Market Value
As of late 2023, used market prices typically range from $16,000 to $23,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Volt has experienced moderate depreciation, which is typical for plug-in hybrids. Factors affecting resale value include battery health, overall condition, mileage, accident history, and geographic location. Vehicles in excellent condition with low mileage and a clean vehicle history report command the highest prices.
2018 Chevrolet Volt Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs are typically average for its class.
Fuel costs are significantly lower than those of a conventional gasoline vehicle due to its electric range.
Maintenance costs are also relatively low, as the electric drivetrain requires less frequent servicing than a traditional engine.
However, potential repairs to the hybrid system can be more expensive.
Overall, the Volt's lower fuel costs and moderate maintenance make it a cost-effective choice, especially for drivers who primarily use electric power for their daily commutes.
2018 Chevrolet Volt Fuel Efficiency
2018 Chevrolet Volt Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Chevrolet Volt Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Chevrolet Volt Compare to Other Hatchback?
Performance: The Volt offers a good balance of electric range and gasoline engine backup, similar to the Prius Prime but with a slightly more engaging driving experience.
Features: The Volt has a user-friendly infotainment system and available advanced safety features, comparable to its rivals.
Reliability: The Prius Prime is generally considered more reliable, while the Volt's reliability is still above average.
Price: The Volt's used prices are competitive, often slightly lower than the Prius Prime but higher than some Ford Fusion Energi models.
Alternatives: The Toyota Prius Prime is a strong alternative if reliability is a top priority. The Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid offers similar fuel efficiency at a slightly lower price point. The Ford Fusion Energi can be a budget-friendly option, but its electric range and overall refinement are less competitive. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Ranks #938 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 938 | 2018 Chevrolet Volt | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Chevrolet Volt a Good Hatchback?
It's particularly well-suited for those with short commutes who can primarily drive on electric power, saving on fuel costs.
Buying used is a good value proposition, provided the battery health is checked. The Premier trim offers more features and is worth considering if your budget allows.
Overall, the 2018 Volt is a worthwhile purchase if you prioritize fuel efficiency, want a taste of electric driving, and understand the potential long-term maintenance needs of a hybrid vehicle.
Mike on February 14, 2024
Great car but GM screwed up!I have a second Gen Volt and absolutely love it! It has its little quirks but overall is a great car....I just wish GM still made them. I have always owned GM vehicles and driven other brands but the imports are too "Tinny" sounding and loud on the road. SOme of the Fords are also this way. GM did a major disservice by discontinuing the Volt as it's the best car they made. Yes, a little smaller than a Lesabre or the other larger cars but can't beat the range and fuel economy. I do wish the electric range was bigger and had they continued to make them then I'm sure that would have improved with a solid state battery or something but I love the car. GM if you read this, we need more cars like this one! The safety and redundancy of the electronics to power it are the best and it has never left me stranded!
Peter on September 13, 2023
Love it and very economical!!!I love this car and hope it goes another 100,000K miles and more. I had a 2015, but it got totaled. I thought I loved that one until I got this new body style that had more features. I've saved so much on gas and it is super cheap to charge. I drive on battery as much as possible, avoiding the gas station for months since it still gets 50mpg on gas.
Trippyweb.com on February 7, 2023
Love my Chevrolet VoltLove it. Excellent daily driver. So far very reliable. I don't understand why they stopped making it. I would buy again. Good in the snow too.
Volt on July 14, 2022
Hybrid plugin Volt is a great carGreat car. Electric cars are a no-brainer. Volt is perfect transition from ICE car because of backup gasoline engine. Range of 53 miles on electric charge & total range of 400 miles with 9 gallon gas tank. No range anxiety Fast aceleration
jOHN on April 4, 2022
ev' shortenedI regenerate ev downhill to 86 ev miles. but then when I use those ev miles down to 5 ev's and plug in it does not charge to complete.86 ev's like I had it up to 86 ev's by going down hill regenerating iT STOPS CHARGE (CHARGE COMPLETE) AT 62 EV'S . Also if I have 86 ev miles and plug it in the ev's drop to about 40 to 50 ev's , and charges to complete charge at 62 ev's WHY WHY???? what happened to my lost 30 ev's. Last year I built my total driving ev miles using regeneratiing, up to 99 miles all on electric use.
Reis on May 20, 2021
Love the car, but Chevy let us down!Lots to like about the Volt. We never need gas unless we take a long trip. It looks good, is comfortable to drive, has good performance, the Infotainment Center is very good and the sound system rocks. BUT... Chevy discontinued the Volt, and in fact discontinued the concept of long range PHEVs. Bad plan, Chevy! This is the perfect compromise between daily driving and long trips to places where charging is not available. The Asian market is picking up on this; long range PHEVs are flying out of the dealerships! Chevrolet is absolutely missing the boat! We are trading the Volt for a Toyota PHEV SUV; battery range that matches the Volt, better ground clearance, easier for these old bones to get in and out of, AWD. It should have been a Chevy; you let us down!
Doug on May 12, 2021
Good Car But Scary When Out of WarrantyI work with alternative fuels like CNG, propane, and electric. The Volt has 23k miles and has been on several 2000+ mile trip, it has been very reliable and has saved me a ton of money on gas. The car seats four, has a large hatch and is great for running around and longer trips. The Volt is a complex car from an engineering perspective, it has three clutches, which is scary if something happens out of warranty. Otherwise, a great car.
JMusic on March 26, 2021
So much fun to drive, and cutting our gas purchaseIn the summer of 2018 we bought a new Volt. I thought it would be my car and my wife would drive our Highlander Hybrid. Turns out we both loved driving it. Instant Torque! We have bought 11 gallons of gas in 2.5 years, with 17,000 miles on the car, so mostly electric miles, but the gas engine was always there if we needed it, so we never worried about running out of charge. But it was a daily question, "Who gets to drive the Volt today?", usually answered by whoever was driving the farthest that day. So since used Volt prices were coming way down, we decided to buy a second Volt. Now we have His and Hers Volts.
NJT on March 19, 2021
I just bought it so I don't know about reliabilityIt's got a nice fit and finish and the drive is way more pleasant than a Prius, plus used it's cheaper than a Prius which may be because of reliability issues but I'll find out later I guess. The electric only mode till you run out of battery and kick into gas is so seamless and the torque and acceleration off the line feels more like Mustang Ecoboost or a Corvette than this odd looking hatchback 😀 test drove all the above cars on my way to the Volt. Oh and also drove a VW Beetle TDI which I really liked but the fit and finish inside was not great and it had an airbag recall that still can't be fixed so I went with the Volt and I'm getting better gas mileage than all but the Prius but honestly most of the time I'm not even using gas since I charge at home and most drives are less than the electric range. So really my MPG is probably vastly superior to the Prius.
JewelG on February 23, 2021
It is amazing!This is an electric car with a hybrid backup. It is an amazing car, it is pretty much free to operate, as in it almost never needs gas, and the electric to charge it cost very little. But mostly it is so fun to drive, great acceleration, great turning radius, feels like driving a sports car, it is high tech and can do so many things. I just love to drive it, and it is so silent, even when the gas engine is running it is very quiet. It's solid and well build. I can't say enough good things about this car, love it!
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.