If you’re looking to go electric with your next vehicle purchase, two models you’re likely considering are the Chevy Bolt EV and Tesla Model 3. As EV pioneers in their own right, both cars offer excellent electric range, advanced technology, and relatively affordable pricing compared to other EVs.
But when it comes down to choosing one, which comes out on top – the Bolt or the Model 3?
I’ve owned both EVs in recent years, so I’m going to compare them in-depth across multiple categories. My goal is to help you better understand the key similarities and differences between these vehicles. That way you can determine which better matches your needs and budget.
Let’s dive in!
Introducing the Contenders
First, a quick overview of each vehicle…
2023 Chevy Bolt EV
The Chevy Bolt EV is a compact all-electric hatchback. First released in 2016, it was one of the earliest mainstream EVs available with over 200 miles of range.
For 2023, Chevy gave the Bolt a major refresh including a redesigned exterior, upgraded interior materials, and new tech features. Two trim levels are offered:
- 1LT – Starts at $27,495
- 2LT – Starts at $30,695
The Bolt EV distinguishes itself as an affordable, no-frills EV option focused on practicality.
[Chevy Bolt EV – © General Motors]
Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 is Tesla’s best-selling EV, launched in 2017. As a compact premium sedan, it competes with internal combustion rivals like the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4.
Three trim levels are available:
- Rear-Wheel Drive – $43,990
- Performance – $53,990
- Long Range (2023) – Est. $54,990
In addition to brisk acceleration and sharp handling, the Model 3 features Tesla’s famous giant touchscreen interface and advanced self-driving capabilities.
[Tesla Model 3 – © Tesla, Inc.]
Now let’s see how these two electric options stack up across several key categories…
Pricing and Value Comparison
When it comes to base MSRP, the Chevy Bolt EV wins hands-down as the more affordable option.
The starting 2023 Bolt EV 1LT trim levels come in at $27,495 before any federal tax credits or incentives – several thousand below the average new car transaction price. Even the higher 2LT trim starts under $31,000.
Apart from a $695 tech package and few minor options, that’s pretty much as high as Bolt pricing goes. Very simple and easy to budget for.
Chevy Bolt EV Pricing
| Trim | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 1LT | $27,495 |
| 2LT | $30,695 |
Meanwhile, the entry-level Tesla Model 3 RWD starts at a much higher $43,990 MSRP – closer to a mid-size luxury vehicle. The Performance model runs up to $53,990 before any additional upgrades.
Most buyers end up spending $50-60k out the door for a nicely equipped Model 3. And that‘s still considered excellent value given its technology, performance, and range. But you certainly pay a premium over the Bolt EV.
Tesla Model 3 Pricing
| Trim | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Rear-Wheel Drive | $43,990 |
| Performance | $53,990 |
| Long Range (Est.) | $54,990 |
Clearly if low purchase price is your top priority, the Chevy Bolt EV can save you some serious cash over the Model 3. However, the Model 3 holds far superior resale value long-term.
Winner: Chevy Bolt EV for purchase price, value; Tesla Model 3 for resale value
Driving Range Comparison
Driving range is a key consideration for any EV buyer. The good news is that both the Chevy Bolt EV and Tesla Model 3 deliver ample range for most drivers’ daily needs.
The Bolt EV is EPA rated for 259 miles on a full charge. This allows it easily cover average daily driving while having some buffer for unexpected trips or detours. For context, the average American drives less than 30 miles per day.
So for many owners, the Bolt EV provides range to spare during normal commuting and errands. However, its sub-300 mile range does mean less flexibility for impromptu road trips or very long days driving. You’ll need to charge more frequently during extended outings.
The Tesla Model 3 currently offers between 272 miles of range on RWD models and 315 miles on Performance versions. An updated Long Range model coming in 2023 is expected to deliver an exceptional 358 miles per charge.
| Trim | Range |
|---|---|
| RWD | 272 mi |
| Performance | 315 mi |
| Long Range (Est.) | 358 mi |
This gives Model 3 drivers more breathing room for longer trips between charging stops. The upcoming 358-mile Long Range model especially promises exceptional range rivaling much larger EVs.
If you anticipate frequently embarking on longer road trips of 250+ miles and want to minimize charging stops, the Model 3 does offer an advantage. But for solely around-town driving, the Bolt EV range should satisfy most owners.
Winner: Tesla Model 3 for maximum range flexibility; Chevy Bolt EV still adequate for average driving
Charging Comparison
Both EVs offer robust public and at-home charging capabilities. But when examining the details, a few key differences emerge that potential owners should consider.
Public Charging
The Chevy Bolt EV excels when it comes to public charging thanks to Chevrolet’s partnerships with major networks like ChargePoint, EVGo, and others.
Bolt EV drivers have access to over 40,000 public charging ports nationwide – giving them tremendous charging flexibility when on road trips or out and about. That dwarfs Tesla‘s proprietary Supercharger network at just 1,500 stations in the US.
DC Fast charging on these third-party networks enables Bolt EV drivers to add:
- Up to 100 miles of range in 30 minutes
- Full charge in under 1 hour
The Model 3 can also leverage third-party DC fast chargers. But it charges at slower speeds without Tesla‘s plug standard.
At a Tesla Supercharger (200+ mph network in the US) however, the Model 3 enjoys exclusive access and max charging speed. Drivers can add:
- Up to 175 miles in 15 minutes
- 1,000 miles per hour of charging
This allows hyper fast long-distance travel specifically along Supercharger routes. The tradeoff is lack of charger access compared to the Bolt.
Home Charging
Both EVs charge from 0-100% in about 7 hours from a 240V home wall connector. This easily enables overnight charging for daily commutes.
Chevy also offers to cover home charging installation costs for eligible Bolt EV buyers. This $1,000+ value helps offset initial purchase expenses.
Ultimately the Model 3 holds an advantage specifically on long road trips thanks to the Supercharger network. But the Bolt EV offers better day-to-day charging flexibility.
Winner: Draw – Chevy Bolt for public charging breadth, Tesla Model 3 for proprietary fast charging network
Performance and Handling
Drivers choosing the Bolt EV are likely not shopping it for blazing acceleration or sharp handling prowess. Make no mistake – the Bolt EV is still peppy and fun to drive in its own right. But performance vehicles exist in an entirely different universe.
The Chevy Bolt EV accelerates 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds thanks to its single front motor producing 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft torque. This allows confident merges and passing power even on highways.
Through corners, the Bolt EV remains well balanced with responsive steering. Strong regenerative braking capability also inspires confidence slowing down before turns.
Make no mistake – the Bolt EV offers strong acceleration and nimble handling by mainstream EV standards. It just doesn’t compete with the world-class performance numbers Tesla vehicles produce.
Let’s examine the Model 3 lineup:
- RWD – 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds
- Performance – 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds!
- Long Range (2023 est.) – 0-60 mph in under 5.0 seconds
Not only does the Performance version Model 3 sprint from 0-60 nearly twice as fast as the Bolt EV, it rivals multi-million dollar supercars with its acceleration. The instant power delivery of its dual motor AWD system catapults drivers into triple digit speeds ridiculously rapidly.
In the corners, precision torque vectoring enables the Performance Model 3 to carve lines with grace defying physics. Upgraded brakes, lowered adaptive suspension, performance wheels/tires all contribute to its incredible handling capabilities way beyond the Bolt.
Bottom line – for sheer exhilaration behind the wheel, the Performance Model 3 exists on a whole other level beyond practically any vehicle under six-figures. Meanwhile the Bolt EV and base Model 3 still deliver quick, nimble driving dynamics. Just not nearly as dramatic.
Winner: Tesla Model 3. On performance, there’s simply no comparison
Interior Comfort and Cargo
As compact electric sedans, both models cater to small families or couples rather than large groups. But interior dimensions, storage, seating, and overall comfort differ:
Dimensions
| Model | Passenger Volume | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Chevy Bolt EV | 94 cu ft | 16.6 cu ft |
| Tesla Model 3 | 93 cu ft | 15 cu ft |
Surprisingly, the Chevy Bolt EV actually offers a bit more passenger room than the Model 3. Traveling long distances, tall passengers may appreciate the extra leg room.
However, the Model 3 provides notably more storage with its trunk and extra front storage (or “frunk”). Road tripping with luggage or gear is easier in the Tesla.
Both cars offer seating for 5 passengers maximum. But realistically, you’ll want to keep it to 4 or fewer adults on longer drives.
Winner: Draw – Bolt EV for passenger room, Tesla Model 3 for cargo capacity
Technology, Entertainment and Connectivity
Tesla has redefined expectations for in-vehicle technology and infotainment. The company operates more like a Silicon Valley software firm than traditional automaker.
Almost all Model 3 controls and features are managed through its visually stunning, 15-inch center touchscreen display. From navigation to media to cabin climate – nearly everything is adjusted on that single Samsung-sourced tablet panel.
Touch response is immediate with crisp, colorful graphics. Wireless phone integration allows Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality for navigation, communication, and streaming media.
That’s just the interior tech. Over-the-air software updates continuously roll out new features, upgrades, and refinements. Owners wake up to things like new games, entertainment services, upgraded graphics and more added seamlessly overnight. No dealership visits necessary.
Connectivity extends beyond the vehicle too. The Tesla mobile app provides remote access to various Model 3 functions like:
- Check charging status, battery range
- Pre-heat or cool cabin before entry
- Locate parked vehicle
- Remote start
- And much more
Plus advanced entertainment features like Tesla Theater and gaming give passengers plenty to do while charging on road trips. All contribute to the spaceship-like experience of the Model 3 interior.
Meanwhile the Chevy Bolt EV interior adopts a more familiar layout to drivers. A 10.2-inch color touchscreen is fixed front and center on the dash rather than integrated elegantly like Tesla’s. Surrounding it remains many traditional physical buttons and knobs for climate controls, tuning, volume and the like.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes it’s nice having dedicated buttons rather than digging through menus. Still, the presentation doesn’t wow like cutting edge tech.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and basic apps like news and weather round out the Bolt EV’s connected features. Nice to have, but not too far beyond most new vehicles today. Nothing groundbreaking.
When it comes to wow-factor and futuristic tech, the Model 3 clearly pushes farther into the future. But I appreciate the Bolt EV infotainment being familiar and simple to navigate without much learning curve. At over half the price, owners likely won’t mind missing out on some flashy elements.
Winner: Tesla Model 3. Lightyears ahead on entertainment, software, and modern interfaces.
Autonomous Driving & Safety Assist
Tesla also demonstrates market leadership when it comes to advanced driver assistance and self-driving functionality. Autopilot capability comes standard on all Model 3 trims today.
Basic Autopilot enables:
- Adaptive cruise control to automatically adjust speeds based on traffic
- Automatic steering to keep the Model 3 centered in its lane on highways
Together these features allow for longer stints of hands-free driving on freeways and highways. But do remain attentive to take over immediately as needed.
Available upgrades take the systems even further:
- Enhanced Autopilot – Auto Lane Change, Auto Park Retrieve, Summon, Smart Summon ($6,000)
- Full Self Driving (FSD) – Adds Automatic Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, Autosteer on City Streets ($15,000)
FSD in particular enables advanced autonomous driving in many conditions without driver intervention. While still considered a Level 2 system, Model 3 owners tout feeling like a “passenger” as the car handles navigation and driving decisions independently.
Admittedly, FSD requires quite an investment. But Tesla’s cutting-edge self-driving development continually rolls out software improvements via over-the-air updates. So functionality continuously expands – making it feel like your EV is getting smarter and more capable on its own over time.
By comparison, the Bolt EV focuses driver safety more than autonomy. Standard safety features include:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Automatic Front Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keep Assist w/ Lane Departure Warning
There are no self-driving or advanced hands-free capabilities offered currently from Chevy. So for someone highly interested in getting a taste of the autonomous future, Tesla clearly leads the pack. But the Bolt EV still provides modern safety assistance to confidently avoid accidents.
Winner: Tesla Model 3. Significantly more advanced autonomous driving functionality.
The Verdict: Which Model is Best?
So there you have it – a detailed side-by-side comparison of two compelling electric models. In certain aspects like pricing and charging access, the Chevy Bolt EV shines as an affordable, no-frills option focused on efficiency and value.
It wins on practicality for budget-focused EV buyers wanting ample features without overspending.
Meanwhile, the Tesla Model 3 clearly demonstrates excellence across performance, range, cutting-edge technology and advanced automation. If you have the budget, it delivers an unparalleled modern luxury EV experience years ahead of rivals.
Both remain excellent electric options – the decision just comes down to aligning with your exact wants and budget. For the extra investment, Tesla owners gain more premium amenities and excitement that Chevy simply doesn’t aim to match. But if you just want capable electric mobility at a reasonable price, the Bolt EV checks all the boxes.
Hopefully this detailed comparison provided some helpful insight to guide your search process! Let me know if you have any other questions.
