Honda CR-V vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2023 Honda CR-V presented a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance compared to its predecessor. With a blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, the sixth-generation model adopted a cleaner design that was expected to age gracefully. While it lacked the distinct personality of the fifth-generation CR-V, its conservative styling was likely to appeal to a broad audience. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, enhancing its sophisticated look. Inside, the leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob elevated the interior's quality, complemented by a dashboard inspired by the latest Civic, featuring metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt maintained a familiar look with slight styling changes, resembling a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. The front end featured a thin slot behind the Chevy Bowtie logo, and the previous grille insert was integrated into the bumper. The Bolt EUV body style returned, offering a tall and narrow stance that prioritized utility and interior space. The RS model added gloss black exterior trim for a touch of flair. Inside, the Bolt underwent a more dramatic makeover with a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The cabin, dominated by hard plastic surfaces, reinforced its budget feel, though the RS trim offered Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching for a sportier touch.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which powered either the front or all four wheels. While the CVT was known for its droning noise during hard acceleration, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, offering a refined driving experience. It managed to suppress impact harshness and maintain composure on various road surfaces. The CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, with Natural Resources Canada estimating 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. Its motor, borrowed from the Chevy Equinox EV, delivered 210 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels, achieving a 0-100 km/h time in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, and it offered one-pedal driving with adjustable brake regeneration. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low centre of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. With a full charge, the Bolt offered a range of up to 422 kilometres, and its charging speed increased to 150 kW, allowing for a quick recharge.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest version yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered more space, resembling a midsize model with ample thigh support and rear legroom. The CR-V provided numerous storage options, including a large bin under the centre armrest and storage trays in the cargo area. The power tailgate revealed 1,113 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. The rear seats provided plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor for centre-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 459 litres, with a large bin under the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, and the Bolt featured ample storage for personal items, including a large bin with movable dividers and a deep centre armrest bin.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen display with wireless connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an upgraded sound system. While the technology was an improvement over the previous generation, it didn't surpass competitors in terms of features.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch centre touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. The infotainment system offered logical menus, sharp graphics, and quick responses. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and wireless charging pad. The Bolt's navigation system helped locate charging stations and preconditioned the battery for optimal charging rates.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features included a seatbelt reminder system, driver monitoring system, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and new airbag designs aimed to enhance occupant protection. The IIHS rated it as a Top Safety Pick+.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not available, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise system was available for hands-free highway driving.