Written byWhile electric-vehicle manufacturers are redefining what people drive, two names are getting some serious attention when it comes to 2026 and 2027—The all-new 2026 Subaru Uncharted and the return of the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt. One borrows its bones from the Toyota EV platform, one trusted by owners the world over, and layers on that Subaru all-weather charm; the other is the return of one of America’s most reasonably priced and usable EVs.
If you’re in the market for an electric car and are looking for a blend of innovation, reliability, and value, then these two models warrant a closer examination. In this deep dive comparison, we’re going to pick through everything, from battery specs to how these cars perform, to what you get for the price, and what kind of technology you can expect, so you’ll know everything you need to know to make the right decision for your EV lifestyle and budget.
Quick Take: TL;DR for the Busy Ones
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted is an all-electric SUV that borrows Toyota’s EV platform and adds Subaru’s off-road DNA, delivering up to 338 hp, AWD, and real adventure vibes. It’s quick (0–60 in under 5 sec), tech-packed, and family-ready — but it comes at a premium (~$45K+).
The 2027 Chevy Bolt returns as a compact, budget-friendly EV (~$30K) built on GM’s Ultium platform. It’s not sporty, but it’s smart: 260–300 miles of range, city-sized practicality, and qualifies for the $7,500 EV tax credit.
Uncharted = rugged and fast. Bolt = efficient and affordable.
Pick what matches your lifestyle.
Design & Styling
2026 Subaru Uncharted
Based on Toyota’s e-TNGA (which it also shares with the Toyota C-HR and Solterra), the Uncharted adds familiar Subaru design elements, such as rugged bumpers, roof rails, and bold color options. A tad shorter than the Solterra and 7 inches shorter overall, it shares the Solterra’s muscular, sculpted identity, along with off-road-friendly dimensions. However, there are no statistics available for the ground clearance, which varied for the shoot.
2027 Chevrolet Bolt
The new Bolt, for its part, is likely to retain the same compact hatchback footprint as before, but with updated design elements: sleeker LED lighting, more flowing body lines, and modernizations that make the car look efficient, rather than truck-tough. Utilizing GM’s BEV2/Ultium technology, the Bolt focuses on low aerodynamic drag and city practicality.
Opt for the Uncharted for the adventurous SUV look. Choose the Bolt if you love slick, up-to-date urban style.
Editor’s Note: We’re still waiting on official press photos for the 2027 Chevy Bolt. As soon as GM drops them, we’ll update this post faster than the Bolt hits 60 (which, to be fair, isn’t that fast). Stay tuned.
Powertrain & Performance
2026 Subaru Uncharted
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted is Subaru’s first authentic EV SUV, developed in cooperation with Toyota, and is built on the bZ4X platform, and comes in two powertrain options:
- Base FWD Premium trim: An electric motor with 221 horsepower, which is enough for a daily commuter and city-friendly.
- Dual-motor AWD trims are available on higher trim levels, such as the Touring and Limited, and this configuration produces 338 horsepower, a significant increase in power over rivals in the segment.
Blessed with Subaru’s hallmark off-road DNA, thanks to its symmetrical AWD system and improved X-Mode Dual Mode with Grip Control, the Uncharted remains at home in the rough stuff. Early testing data and press previews reveal that the AWD model jumps from 0–60 mph in less than 5 seconds, placing it nearer performance crossovers than “budget” EVs.
With this mix of torque and an off-road-ready drivetrain backed by Subaru engineering know-how, you’d choose this unconventional, yet intentional choice for families or would-be explorers who need more than just a city car.
2027 Chevrolet Bolt
The Chevrolet Bolt is back for 2027, having been discontinued in 2023, with GM’s new Ultium battery platform. The next-gen Bolt should include:
- One electric motor up front, with something like 200hp.
- There are reports of an optional AWD version being introduced FWD: >300 mi; AWD: ~290 milater, so it’s not guaranteed at launch.
Performance is likely to remain similar to that of the previous Bolt EV, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.5 to 7 seconds. That’s more than enough for daily driving, especially since the Bolt is all about being affordable and efficient, rather than sporty.
Range, Battery & Charging
| Features | 2026 Subaru Uncharted | 2027 Chevrolet Bolt |
| Estimated Range | 228-250 miles | 250-300 miles |
| Battery Platform | Toyota e -Tanga | GM Ultium |
| Fast Charging | Up to 100 kW(est.) | Up to 150 kW (est.) |
| Charge Trims | 80% in 30-40 mints | 60% in 25-35 mints |
The new Bolt may offer slightly more range thanks to GM’s updated battery chemistry. Subaru’s fast-charging is slightly slower but good enough for most users.
Interior Comfort & Cargo
2026 Subaru Uncharted
The Uncharted’s interior is designed to strike a balance between adventure-readiness and modern comfort. Key among them is a 14-inch center touchscreen, flanked by hardware climate control buttons and dual wireless charging pads, ensuring seamless wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone connectivity.
The interior design echoes Subaru’s tough-guy ethos with orange contrast accents and sturdy materials. The Uncharted, though about as long as the Crosstrek (more than 178 inches), uses its interior space more effectively. Rear passengers will have approximately 36.5 inches of legroom, which is family-friendly for everyday driving and weekend getaways.
Cargo-wise, Subaru offers more than 25 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which is competitive in the compact electric SUV segment. Cabins that can be folded flat add to the versatility for an active lifestyle.
2027 Chevrolet Bolt
The next-generation Bolt is likely to undergo a radical redesign of its interior while maintaining its compact and efficient design. An updated interior will add an “approximate 11-inch” infotainment screen, as well as a completely digital instrument cluster, over-the-air updates, and wireless smartphone integration.
Based on GM’s Ultium flat battery platform, the new Bolt also features a roomier floor plan, offering better headroom and easier access to the rear seat.
Cargo volume should be about the same as the prior model’s 17 cubic feet behind the rear seats, not huge by any means for extended trips or large gear, especially if you’re living within city limits.
On the Subaru Uncharted, you get extra cargo room, rugged interior bits, and a larger infotainment screen. Alternatively, the Chevrolet Bolt attracts commuters seeking tech and compact efficiency. The Uncharted is the more versatile choice for weekend haulers and small families.
Read More:
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax vs. 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Wrangler vs. Ford Bronco
- 2025 Toyota Corolla vs. 2025 Honda Civic: Which Sedan Wins?
Safety & Tech
2026 Subaru Uncharted
The Uncharted extends Subaru’s noted safety heritage with an all-new generation of the brand’s EyeSight driver-assist technology. There is also standard equipment such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offer a 360-degree surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert for better situational awareness.
Uncharted’s can-do-everything attitude is further underlined by Subaru’s X-Mode AWD traction control system, which makes light work of slippery or uneven surfaces, and this naturally ups the Uncharted’s go-anywhere electric crossover CV.
2027 Chevrolet Bolt
Chevrolet is equipping the forthcoming Bolt with a competitive tech package, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot detection. One of the most innovative optional features is GM’s Super Cruise, which enables hands-free highway driving on mapped roads for certain trim levels.
The new Bolt also features NACS charging compatibility, which grants it access to Tesla Superchargers, arguably the most significant tech win for EV infrastructure.
The Subaru Uncharted excels in tough safety tech designed for outdoor driving. The Chevy Bolt fights back with high-tech upgrades, especially if you add Super Cruise and Tesla charging access.
Price & Value
| Trim Level | Subaru Uncharted (Est.) | Chevy Bolt 2027 (Est.) |
| Base Model | $45,000 | $30,000 |
| Md Trim | $48,000 | $32,000 |
| Top Trim | $52,000 | $36,000 |
- Uncharted: Premium positioning($45K+), focused on outdoor-enthusiast EV purchasers
- Bolt: Target on affordability (~$30K) with the ability to receive full $7.5K federal tax credit; planned to start production in late 2025 based on 2026.
Verdict:
Bolt is an attractive package, especially with some of the incentives. Uncharted delivers more, but it comes at a slightly higher upfront cost.
Pros & Cons
2026 Subaru Uncharted
Pros:
- Dual-motor AWD with 338 hp
- 0–60 mph in under 5 seconds
- 300+ mile FWD range; ~290 AWD
- X-Mode AWD (and good ground clearance, too)
- 14 “touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
- EyeSight® safety suite included
Cons:
- More expensive MSRP, no tax credit possible
- Has a similar design DNA to Toyota cars
- Less rear seat and cargo room than the competition
2027 Chevrolet Bolt
Pros:
- Expected price under $30,000
- Uses a long-lasting LFP battery
- Small and nippy city car size is nailed.
- Qualified for a full federal EV tax credit
- Improved cabin materials and tech
Cons:
- ~260-mile range; AWD not confirmed
- Limited off-road capability
- ~17 cu ft for cargo— smaller than Uncharted
Who Should Buy What?
Choose the Subaru Uncharted if you:
- You want actual AWD for snow, mud, or trails.
- You like the idea of a rugged, off-road-ready EV
- You want powerful acceleration (0–60 in under 5 seconds)
- You care about interior technology and safety features.
- You’re fine with a price of admission of over $45,000.
- You appreciate 290-300 miles of real-world driving range.
Pick the Chevrolet Bolt if:
- Affordability is your top priority.
- A sub-$30K EV before rebates is what you’re after
- Mostly city driving or commuting daily.
- Small footprint and convenient parking are key.
- ~260 miles of range is sufficient for what you require
- You want to cash in on the full federal EV tax credit.
- You want basic electric mobility.
Final Takeaway
There is considerable value in both the 2026 Subaru Uncharted and the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, but for very different customers. The Uncharted appeals to those seeking adventure-oriented utility, AWD capabilities, and added cabin luxuries. The Bolt returns as a practical urban EV champion, maintaining its focus on saving money, clever construction, and comfort today and into the future.
It’s not a question of” which EV is best, “but instead of which one suits your lifestyle. Camping in the mountains? Pick the Uncharted. Daily commuting in the city? Bolt takes you there cheap and clean.
