2012 Chevrolet Volt
Fuel Economy Overview
The 2012 Chevrolet Volt achieves an EPA-estimated 37 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 35 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 1.4L 4-cylinder engine paired with a automatic (variable gear ratios), this compact cars features Front-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 2012 Volt produces approximately 87 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Volt performs better than the national average in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $1,850, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would spend $4,750 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
⚡ EV Climate Range Simulator
Extreme temperatures severely impact lithium-ion battery chemistry and require heavy HVAC usage. See how your range degrades in freezing winters or scorching summers.
EV / PHEV Intel
Range Anxiety Index: High Anxiety
Urban micro-mobility only. Do not attempt long distance travel.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Volt vehicles manufactured August 25, 2010, to June 26, 2013. If the driver exits the vehicle without turning off the electrical system, the battery may drain low enough that the gasoline engine will automatically start itself to recharge the electric battery.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: If the engine runs for an extended period of time in an enclosed space, there may be a build up of carbon monoxide, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the engine management software to limit the time that the stationary vehicle can be left in the ON position, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 14617.
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 Chevrolet Volt vehicles manufactured March 1, 2012, through April 17, 2012. Due to a brake pressure modulator valve problem, the vehicles do not relieve brake pressure from the front brakes during an anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), or traction control event. One or both front brakes may lock up and not release. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems"' and No. 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: If the brakes lock up it could cause a loss of steering control and/or a lengthened distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: General Motors will notify owners, and dealers will install a new brake pressure modulator valve free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 12, 2013. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-866-694-6546. GM's recall number is 13184.
Loading live complaint data...
Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Chevrolet Volt configurations.
Similar 2012 Compact Cars Alternatives
2012 Lexus HS 250h
2.4L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Honda Insight
1.3L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Honda Insight
1.3L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Nissan Versa
1.6L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Toyota Yaris
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
1.4L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)