Is Chevrolet Volt better than Prius?

Answer 1

Better is a relative term and will depend on what qualities matter to you.

If you worry about gas usage, and/or energy security, then for most drivers the answers is yes the volt is better. It is much better! Real world data at voltstats.net shows an average of 124MPG for volt drivers. Fuelly data shows real world averages of 48MPG for Pirus and 75 for Prius Plug in. But your milage will vary, and in a Volt it will depend on how much driving you do in EV mode versus gas mode. With with a 35mile EPA range between charges (and many drivers doing much better), it is expected most drivers will be in EV 60-70% of the time.

If you measure better by up front cost, then the Prius is better as it is a less expensive car at the time of purchase.

If you measure better by "power" when driving, the Volt has higher HP and better acceleration.

If you measure better by historical reliability, then the Volt is too new to have a proven history, and so the Prius wins by default.

If you measure better by quiet ride, the Volt in EV mode (i.e. most of the time) is quieter.

If you measure better by where your money goes, the Volt is American built and powered mostly by American produced energy, so you money is working to put america back to work. A Prius sends more manufacturing money, and most of the fuel money, out of the country.

If you measure better by operational costs, it will depend on the costs of electricity vs gas and your driving habits. EPA estimated costs for the Volt are lower than the Prius. If you can get time-of-day use rates and charge at night it can be even cheaper.