Rumor: 2014 Chevy Volt to contain 2.0-liter turbo engine
Consumers seeking more power than the Chevrolet Volt’s current 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine may be in luck, because leaked documents indicate that an all-new 2.0-liter turbo engine may be available on the 2014 model, according to InsideEVs. The news surfaces just three days after Chevy released the details of the 2013 Volt model.
Chevy Volt’s current 1.4-liter engine and electric drivetrain produces just 149 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. If the leaked rumors are true, customers could see considerable increases in performance. In fact, the 2.0-liter engine could produce up to as much twice the power of the 2012 Volt’s engine. Despite the engine upgrade, many Volt customers will likely be attracted to the EV’s fuel economy rather than it’s engine power. With that said, eco-friendly drivers in search of a livelier engine should be pleased.
Aside from a new turbo engine, recent news hinted at what enhancement can be expected on the 2013 Volt. First off, the 2013 model will feature a larger battery, which will offer a 38-mile range, up 3 miles from the 2012 Volt. The upcoming 2013 Chevy Volt also boasts an MPGe of 98, compared to the current 94 MPGe. Although it's a slight upgrade, the increased fuel economy may give the Volt the edge it needs to compete with the upcoming 2013 Honda Fit EV and 2013 Tesla Model S. The 2013 model will also contain an optional rear arm rest, redesigned rear hatch door and roof panels, a realtime energy use dashboard display and an additional two optional paint colors.
As for the current 2012 Chevy Volt, it presently ranks 8 out of 19 on U.S. News Rankings and Reviews list of Upscale Midsize Cars. It earned an overall 8.5 out of 10 score based on 28 published reviews and test-drives, according to U.S. News. Although the Volt ranked toward the middle of the pack, reviewers indicate that it is “one of the best hybrid cars on the market.” Unlike the typical all-electric car, the Volt earned major praise for its gas engine that kicks in when battery life dies. Additionally, reviewers stated that the Volt’s drive quality was “smooth and quiet.”
In spite of the acclaim, the 2012 Volt’s overall score suffered due to its expensive price tag. “It’s expensive compared with other hybrid cars and even most upscale midsize cars,” said U.S. News. Other than price, minor flaws included small trunk space, confusing tech features and limited passenger space.
Stay tuned for more information regarding the 2014 Chevy Volt's engine upgrade in the upcoming days and weeks.
Source: InsideEVs
Also read: President Obama says he'll buy a Chevy Volt after his presidency ends
Also read: Former President George H.W. Bush buys a Chevy Volt for son Neil
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