We Switched from Nissan Leaf To Chevy Bolt and Here Is What We Think

In this story several current and former Nissan Leaf owners tell their stories of why they have switched to Chevy Bolt and compare their previous experiences with Nissan Leaf to Chevy Bolt now.

Few days ago on SF Bay Area Nissan LEAF Owners group on Facebook there was an interesting discussion, in which group member Chris Mossing wrote that he has been driving a Nissan Leaf since May 2011 and really like it. But now he needs more range and is researching the Chevy Bolt. "Have any of you made the switch to Bolt? If yes, what are the pros and cons of the Bolt versus the Leaf other than the extra range," he asked the group members.

Here are some interesting and eye-opening responses from the group members who have already made a static from Nissan Leaf to Chevy Bolt. This doesn't in any way mean that Nissan Leaf is a less superior car as currently it is beating expectations with 9000 orders in two months.

So Nissan Leaf vs Chevy Bolt

Eric Tissot-Dupont - I went from a 2011 LEAF to a Bolt a few months ago. IMO, the Bolt is a superior EV in all aspects. Range, performance, charge management, integration. The LEAF is more comfortable, the ride is smoother and the seats are way better. Since I have the Bolt, I am 100% convinced that an EVs can replace ICEs for 99.9% of the population. They just have to get the cost down.

David Karpman - I find the Chevy Bolt's seats a lot more comfortable than the Leaf. The Leaf's seat were way too "mushy". The Bolt seats are a lot higher, allowing for a more natural (less like a cockpit) seating position. Great for long drives.

Kelly-Richard Olsen - You really should sit and drive a Bolt for an extended period of time to make certain the seats are bearable. This is easily the number one reason people have given for passing on the car. If you can handle the seats or do what many have done which is put foam padding under the covers or buy a cushion to put on top of the seat then it might be a great car for you. I absolutely despise the seats but I’m so over having only 65 miles of range and having to stop every 45 minutes or so to charge on trips over 60 miles that I’m very close to getting a Bolt hoping that I can somehow tolerate the seats of torture.

Lusty Wench - I had 2011 Leaf. I got a Bolt in mid-september. I love it, except for the sun visors, which are way too short for me. I spend far too much time holding up a hand to block sun.

Benita Asher - We had a 2011 Leaf for 6 years, got a new battery under warranty, but the range was just a downer. We love our Bolt, routinely get 300 miles per charge (hilly driving, 55mph or less). Range anxiety is completely a thing of the past, we only charge at home now. I literally drive for a week, and then still have the equivalent of two or three Leafs' range. We did not like the seats, but it was an easy fix with some foam from Walmart and aftermarket seat covers. No other complaints at all. The regen is amazing, never use the friction brake.

Larry Crosby - I made the switch 6 months ago and couldn't be happier. The range is real and that's a game-changer.

Will Beckett - I had a 2011 Leaf that went with my ex-wife four years ago. Also had a Think City and sold it to get the Bolt EV. Best car I have ever owned but the tech is better in the leaf. Everything else is better in the BoltEV

Remy Tennant - I had two Leafs and now have a Bolt, and I love it. With it's added range and powerful acceleration, the Bolt is in another league. Only reason to possibly not get one is if you happen to be one of the unfortunate few who finds the seat uncomfortable.

What about you? Do you own one or both of these cars and would like to share your opinion in the comments section? Please let TorqueNews readers know your experience as we discuss these two great vehicles.

Image modified from TFLCar