What is the difference between a Chevy Bolt 1LT and 2LT?
The 2LT trim is the higher-end Bolt configuration, offering more comfort, convenience and tech features than the 1LT. Exact equipment varies by model year and market, so always check the window sticker for the specific car you’re considering.
In general, buyers choose 2LT for leather or leatherette seating, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, upgraded audio and wheels, and other premium touches, while 1LT provides the core features at a lower price. Below is a closer look at what distinguishes the two, and what buyers should verify when shopping.
What sets 2LT apart?
While both trims share the Bolt EV’s key drivetrain and safety suite, 2LT adds comfort, convenience and premium finishes that aren’t typically included on 1LT. The exact items can change by year; here are the features most often associated with 2LT models:
Interior features
2LT models commonly upgrade seating and comfort options, and may offer a more refined cabin experience than 1LT.
- Leather-appointed seating (versus cloth upholstery on many 1LT models)
- Power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Enhanced or premium audio options (such as a Bose system in some years)
- Upgraded interior trim accents
Note that fabric and trim choices can vary by year and region, so verify the exact materials in the car you’re considering.
Exterior and technology features
2LT also typically includes more styling and tech upgrades, improving on the base look and feel with nicer wheels and lighting where available.
- Upgraded wheels (often 18-inch alloys versus smaller wheels on 1LT)
- Fog lamps and sometimes LED headlights
- Enhanced touchscreen or larger display for the infotainment system
- Premium lighting accents and trim details
- Remote start and other convenience tech (where offered in the year)
As with interior items, the exact exterior and tech gear depends on model year and regional specs, so check the specific vehicle’s features.
Availability, price and ownership considerations
Prices and availability of 1LT and 2LT vary by model year, market and options. GM’s trim naming and feature packages have shifted over time, so the two trims aren’t always offered simultaneously in every year.
- Typical price difference: 2LT carries a higher MSRP than 1LT due to added equipment and trim level; the gap can be a few thousand dollars depending on year and options.
- Battery and drivetrain remain the same across trims, so range and performance are generally similar.
- Check the exact window sticker for included features, as some items (like premium audio or certain wheels) may be optional or year-specific.
For the most accurate comparison, review the official Chevrolet window sticker or GM’s online build configurator for the exact year you’re considering, and confirm which features are standard or optional on 1LT versus 2LT.
Clarification on Bolt EV vs Bolt EUV naming
The Chevrolet Bolt family has included different naming conventions across model years. Depending on the year and market, the Bolt EV and the larger Bolt EUV may use different trim naming (for example LT vs Premier in some years). When shopping, ensure you’re comparing the same model (Bolt EV vs Bolt EUV) and the same year to avoid mixing features that come with different chassis and trims.
Summary
The 2LT is the higher-trim Bolt when offered, adding premium seating, heated comfort features, and upgraded wheels/infotainment over 1LT. The exact equipment lineup is year- and market-dependent, so always verify the specific vehicle’s window sticker and configuration for an accurate comparison.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 Chevy Bolt?
Each delivers a different amount of power: Level 1: Uses a standard household outlet (120 volts), adding about 3–5 miles of range per hour. Level 2: Uses a 240-volt outlet and typically adds 25–30 miles of range per hour, depending on charger amperage and your vehicle's onboard charging capacity.
What year is the bad Chevy Bolt?
The Chevy Bolt years to avoid are generally considered to be the 2017-2019 models due to the risk of battery fires, with the 2020 and 2021 models also impacted by the same recall, although to a lesser extent. These models require careful checking of the battery's recall status, as they were subject to recalls for battery-related issues that could lead to fires. The 2022 and 2023 models are considered more reliable, but some early 2022s may have had issues until production changes were implemented in the spring of 2022.
Years to be cautious about
- 2017-2022 (Bolt EV) and 2022 (Bolt EUV): These are the models covered by the main battery recall that aimed to address the risk of battery fires.
- 2017-2019: These years had widespread battery issues that led to a full recall and replacement of the battery pack for many vehicles.
- 2020-2021: Some models from these years were also part of the recall, though their original batteries were slightly different than the 2017-2019 models.
- Early 2022: Some early production 2022 models may have had issues before the production changes were made around April 2022.
How to mitigate risk
- Check for recall completion: Verify that the battery recall has been fully addressed for any used Bolt you are considering. A vehicle with a newly replaced battery pack is a safer bet.
- Review maintenance records: Look for any documentation that shows the battery replacement has been completed. A Carfax report can be helpful for this purpose.
- Avoid models with unresolved issues: If a seller can't provide proof of a new battery pack or has a car with unresolved recall issues, it's best to avoid buying it.
- Consider later models: The 2023 and later models are generally considered more reliable as they have benefited from the production changes and fixes made to the batteries.
What is the difference between the Chevy Bolt 1LT and 2LT?
Go for the Bolt's 2LT trim. It adds a considerable number of tech and nice-to-have features, as well as unlocking some options not available on the 1LT model. One of those options is the Infotainment package. It adds an upgraded Bose stereo, a surround-view camera system, a wireless charging pad and more USB ports.
What is the difference between EV 1LT and 2LT?
Differences between the 2022 Bolt EV 1LT and Bolt EV 2LT
One of the more noticeable differences is the HD Surround Vision offered in the 2LT model. This feature makes use of multiple cameras to give you a bird's eye view of the car and its surroundings for easier maneuverability.
