“It will save you a huge amount of time since gas/oil/maintenance aren't concerns. It's a lot of fun to drive (it's really zippy), and very cheap to operate.”
2017 Chevrolet Bolt: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is an all-new model and the first year of its first generation. Its headline feature is an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range, which helped bring long-range electric driving to a mainstream Chevrolet hatchback.
About the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt
1st generation Bolt EV, first year (launch year before the later refresh)
Chevrolet positioned the Bolt as a practical electric hatchback for normal daily use, not a niche experiment. The core appeal was simple: long driving range at a mainstream price, quick electric acceleration, easy city size, and a surprisingly roomy cabin with hatchback cargo flexibility. Compared with rivals at the time, Chevrolet leaned on usable range, strong value, and familiar everyday-car practicality rather than luxury or flashy performance.
The LT is the straightforward Bolt, with the full electric powertrain, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and an 8-inch digital driver display. The Premier has the same range and performance, then adds leather-appointed seating, heated rear seats, a bird's-eye parking camera, a camera-based rearview mirror, and roof rails.
What changed, by category
Structural
Chevrolet launched the Bolt EV as an all-new electric hatchback with LT and Premier trims.
Powertrain
Both trims use a 60-kWh battery and a 200-hp motor driving the front wheels. EPA-estimated range is 238 miles.
Tech
Both trims have a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus an 8-inch digital driver display. A 120-volt charge cord and 7.2-kW onboard charger are standard, while DC fast-charging capability is optional.
2017 Chevrolet Bolt specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Electric Motor | Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 266 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.9 cu-ft | 16.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.5 in | 36.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 238 | 238 |
| MPGe Combined | 119 | 119 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV a new model?
Yes. The 2017 Bolt EV was Chevrolet's all-new electric hatchback and the first model year of the first-generation Bolt.
How far can the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV travel on a full charge?
The 2017 Bolt EV has an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles. Every trim uses the same 60-kWh battery and 200-hp front electric motor.
What is the difference between the 2017 Bolt LT and Premier?
The Premier adds comfort and visibility features, while both trims share the same battery, motor, range, and core cabin technology. Premier highlights include leather-appointed seating, heated rear seats, a bird's-eye parking camera, a camera-based rearview mirror, and roof rails.
Does the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV have DC fast charging?
DC fast-charging capability is optional on the 2017 Bolt EV, not standard. Every trim has a 120-volt charge cord and a 7.2-kW onboard charger for AC charging.
Does the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Both 2017 Bolt EV trims have a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, along with an 8-inch digital driver display.
2017 Chevrolet Bolt Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt.
4.5
2017 Chevrolet Bolt
(592 reviews)
“The Chevy Bolt is fun to drive, comfortable, and - above all - has great autonomy (over 200 miles) that beats other cars in the same class.”
“Great price & performance with the best driving range of used electric vehicles. Compatible with most chargers using a standard charger connection. Room enough for a big/tall guy to drive. Easy to get in and out of. Lots of trunk space.”