Chevrolet brings the Bolt back with more range and tech under $40,000

Chevrolet has revived the Bolt for the 2027 model year with a new X76 drive unit, an LFP 65-kWh battery and faster charging; the base price is reported as $39,999 before freight and pre-delivery inspection.

Chevrolet has reintroduced the Bolt for the 2027 model year after discontinuing the earlier generation in 2023. The hatchback keeps a similar exterior look but is substantially revised under the skin with a new in-house X76 electric drive unit and a new high-voltage battery architecture. The vehicle is priced from $39,999 before freight and pre-delivery inspection and is reported to arrive at Canadian dealerships in the first quarter of 2026. A short test drive in Montreal during winter conditions was part of the reporting; the writer was a guest of the automaker. Key details: - Base price is listed as $39,999 before freight and PDI, and $43,470 as tested including freight and PDI. - The Bolt uses a 65-kilowatt-hour battery pack and is reported to have a claimed range of up to 422 kilometres. - It is the first Chevrolet to use lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) cells and uses the X76 electric drive unit; the single front motor is reported at 210 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. - Charging capability includes 150-kW DC fast charging, with GM estimating 10 to 80 percent in 26 minutes, and the Bolt is the first Chevy with a NACS DC port for access to many Tesla Superchargers. - Interior updates include an 11.3-inch infotainment screen, an 11-inch driver information screen with Google built-in, standard heated seats and optional Super Cruise driver assistance. - A sporty RS trim is joining the lineup, and the article notes broader market context that EV purchases and incentives have been shifting. Summary: The Bolt's return brings updated EV hardware, faster charging and revised interior technology while retaining an entry-level price point as reported. Availability is stated for the first quarter of 2026 and the model lineup will include a new RS trim. Undetermined at this time is how the market will receive the vehicle beyond these reported specifications and timing.