[leonar40]

I know there are some current or former ELR owners on this forum, I've got a hypothetical question for you. I'm considering a low mileage pre-owned 2nd Gen Volt in the next year or so to replace my Lexus CT200h that's getting up in age. I've also read a lot about the 2016 ELR and the improvements that they made over the 2014. If you could find either a 2016 ELR or 2nd Gen Volt for the same amount of money, which would you choose and why? I know the Volt has better range, newer technology, 4 doors, more back seat room, etc. It's clearly the more logical choice. But the ELR just seem so dang nice on both the inside and outside. It's tempting, especially with the pre-owned price dropped so low compared to the original price. My drive to work is 18 miles each way.

Looking forward to hearing your opinions. Thanks!

 

[Loboc]

I know there are some current or former ELR owners on this forum, I've got a hypothetical question for you. I'm considering a low mileage pre-owned 2nd Gen Volt in the next year or so to replace my Lexus CT200h that's getting up in age. I've also read a lot about the 2016 ELR and the improvements that they made over the 2014. If you could find either a 2016 ELR or 2nd Gen Volt for the same amount of money, which would you choose and why? I know the Volt has better range, newer technology, 4 doors, more back seat room, etc. It's clearly the more logical choice. But the ELR just seem so dang nice on both the inside and outside. It's tempting, especially with the pre-owned price dropped so low compared to the original price. My drive to work is 18 miles each way.

Looking forward to hearing your opinions. Thanks!

I’ve had both a ‘13 Volt and a ‘14 ELR. They are totally different cars. If I were going for a compact car again, the late model Volt is more practical. Personally, I drive a CT6. Both of your choices are too small for my family.

 

[reciprocity]

Given that your commute distance is within the range of either car, I'd highly recommend the ELR. I absolutely love mine and chose it after test driving a second generation Volt. I absolutely don't regret the decision.

Just be aware of the unique parts issues associated with a unique, low production, discontinued car—and don't plan to use the back seat. The ELR is definitely less practical than the Volt space-wise.

There seem to be quite a few used 2014 ELRs around, but 2016s are pretty difficult to find given how few they made.

 

[leonar40]

Thanks I appreciate the info. I used to drive a first Gen Honda Insight so I know what you mean about limited numbers, although the ELR is in a totally different class in that department. I think there was 18K Insights made worldwide and like 5K ELRs! The only time I would ever use the back seat is on the very rare occasion I have to pick up my son from daycare. Normally we get him in my wife's Prius. If I couldn't find a 2016 ELR then I think that would make the decision for me. Reading about the fixes that they did to the entertainment system and especially the extra power with the software change would make a big difference to me.

 

[hellsop]

and don't plan to use the back seat. The ELR is definitely less practical than the Volt space-wise

Is it as completely legroom-vestigial as the Volt's rear seating or is it better but hindered by access? (I'd be thrilled to hear "There's a couple inches more between seat and the front seat-back but you have to be a monkey to get in there.")

 

[Aseras]

The only real deciding factor would be do you need 4 doors or the hatchback?

The ELR is nicer in every way. It's only drawback is the lack of the hatchback, and the doors. The ELR doors are HUGE.

If you rarely use your back seats, and never need the hatchback or to out something large in the back, ELR.

If you use the back seats often and need to use the hatchback or need to load things with both back seats down, Volt.

The ELR can put the seats down, but the center divider between them is fixed and cannot be removed and the trunk opening is tiny.

 

[dannycamps]

I've only seen one ELR in person from a distance and it's a gorgeous car. That being said, from an internal tech perspective, the '16-'18 Gen 2 Volt dash layout is based on the ELR and even uses the same software as some people here have found out when software glitches caused their Volts to boot up with the ELR cluster showing.

The Gen 2 Volt (which in full disclosure I own and love) is more practical. First it has a fifth seat and while not a great seat, it is possible to fit three kids or small adults back there. One day I actually had four kids squeeze back there but it was definitely 'clown-car' territory there. Second are the mechanics. The range is better, the ICE MPG is better and the car uses regular fuel vs. premium. Third, the hatch back is infinitely more useful for loading cargo.

 

[saltsman]

If your commute in in range of both, you don't need a back seat, and have another vehicle to haul stuff when needed, I'd absolutely go with the ELR. The hatch on the Volt is incredibly versatile, but the ELR is plush, plush, plush.

 

[Voltastic]

I said it before, I'll say it again - I would thrill-kill a hobo for an ELR

 

[FI Spyder]

The ELR is cool no doubt but the no hatch is a deal breaker.

 

[frmr_pontiac_own]

2nd gen volt all the way. Do not buy a 4 year old, pseudo luxury car and hope for anything but sadness, expense, and disappointment.

 

[hellsop]

The ELR can put the seats down, but the center divider between them is fixed and cannot be removed and the trunk opening is tiny.

Clearly designed for golf bags.

 

[leonar40]

I love this, sounds like something from a fortune cookie!

 

[BEOFGOD]

Clearly designed for golf bags.

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