The 2015 Chevrolet Volt’s 37 MPG combined rating is a significant feature. It bridges gasoline power and electric, and is ideal for commuters who want to minimize gas use but avoid the range limitations of electric vehicles. It’s about using gasoline only when needed and using the Volt’s electric range for daily driving, with the gasoline engine for longer trips.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2015 Volt’s 1.4L 4-cylinder engine at 35 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. These numbers are notable because the Volt performs almost the same in both environments. In reality, the Volt’s efficiency depends on how often it is plugged in. Most Volt drivers use electric power around town, extending a single tank of gas to years, especially if their commute is within the Volt’s 38-mile electric range. The highway MPG is still respectable when the battery is depleted, making road trips easy, but the city figure is more important for typical Volt drivers.

Annual fuel cost

The 2015 Chevrolet Volt has an EPA-estimated annual fuel cost of $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a typical split between city and highway driving and using the EPA’s average fuel prices when the data was gathered. This number can change based on driving habits, charging frequency, and local electricity and gas costs. The more a Volt uses electric power, the less gasoline it consumes, impacting that $1,550 figure. For a Volt owner who primarily uses electric power and only uses the gasoline engine on road trips, the actual annual fuel cost could be much lower.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings are a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2015 Volt varies. Someone with a short commute and regular charging can see the equivalent of 100+ MPG by rarely using gasoline. However, a driver with a longer commute who doesn’t charge regularly will experience numbers closer to the EPA’s gasoline-only figures. The Volt’s onboard energy usage display helps drivers monitor and adjust their driving. Smart regenerative braking can add range, and understanding the shift between electric and gasoline power is key to maximizing efficiency. The VOLT MPG across all years shows how different model years compare to the 2015.

How it compares

In 2015, the Volt competed with hybrid and electric vehicles that approached fuel efficiency differently. The Toyota Prius, for example, delivered a combined 50 MPG without charging, appealing to those wanting simplicity and hybrid technology. The Ford Fusion Energi, another plug-in hybrid, offered similar electric range to the Volt but with a larger footprint and a combined MPG of 42 as a hybrid. The Nissan LEAF, an electric vehicle, had zero tailpipe emissions but required planning for longer journeys and managed the equivalent of 114 combined MPGe. The Volt offered a balance of electric range and gasoline backup, appealing to drivers who wanted to reduce gas consumption but weren’t ready for a fully electric lifestyle. Owners considering other vehicles might find all Chevrolet fuel economy data interesting.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Precondition the cabin while the Volt is plugged in. Using electricity from the grid to heat or cool the interior before unplugging saves battery power and preserves electric range. This works well during extreme weather.

Use the Volt’s regenerative braking system. Anticipate stops and coast to recover energy. Engage the “L” (Low) gear in city driving to increase regenerative braking and recapture energy, turning kinetic energy into electricity.

Optimize charging. Charge the Volt whenever possible, even briefly. “Top-off” charging maximizes electric range and reduces gasoline use. Consider a Level 2 charger at home for faster charging.

Monitor the energy usage display and adjust driving. The Volt provides feedback on energy consumption, allowing you to improve. Smooth acceleration and consistent speeds maximize efficiency in electric and gasoline modes.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tires to the recommended pressure regularly for better efficiency.