Overview & Reviews

For a long time, buying a subcompact car from a domestic automaker was either completely impossible or an unfortunate circumstance. Now, however, homegrown models are at the segment's forefront both in terms of sales and overall quality. The Chevrolet Sonic is one such example of local talent, a very well-rounded subcompact that stands as one of the top choices in its segment.

The Chevy Sonic represents a quantum leap forward from the Aveo it replaced. High points include sharp styling, nimble handling, a composed ride, generous interior space, ample feature content and quick acceleration. The optional turbocharged four-cylinder, in particular, is a standout in this class. Perhaps most importantly, the Sonic feels like a more premium, substantial car from behind the wheel than its modest price and dimensions would suggest. Buyers would be wise to check it out.

Current Chevrolet Sonic
The Chevrolet Sonic is available as a sedan or a four-door hatchback. Even the base LS trim level comes with air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity, OnStar and an auxiliary audio jack. Moving up through the LT and LTZ trims adds more comfort and convenience features such as leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, heated seats, an iPod interface and Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system that includes a touchscreen, Bluetooth audio and additional smartphone-compatible services. There's also the sporty RS trim (hatchback only) that features four-wheel disc brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels and leather/faux-suede upholstery.

Every Sonic except for the RS comes standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes 138 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. Standard on the RS and optional for the LT and LTZ trims is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It also produces 138 hp, but more importantly, 148 lb-ft of torque. So equipped, the Sonic feels significantly quicker than other subcompact cars. Manual transmissions are standard (five-speed with the 1.8-liter, six-speed with the turbo), and a six-speed automatic is optional for both. Fuel economy is actually better with the turbo engine.

In reviews, we've been very impressed with the Chevrolet Sonic. It offers engaging handling that doesn't come at the expense of a comfortable ride, and the controls operate with a consistency of effort that you rarely see in cars in this price range. As long as you're OK shifting your own gears, the punchy and efficient turbocharged engine is definitely worth the extra dough. In total, the Sonic drives like a bigger, more composed car than you would expect.

Inside, materials quality is merely acceptable. The motorcycle-style gauge cluster is gimmicky, but the analog tachometer and digital speedometer are large and legible -- hard to argue with form plus function. In terms of space, the Chevy Sonic provides ample head- and shoulder room for front passengers -- even for those taller than 6 feet, which is rare for subcompacts. The second row is also quite spacious provided one of those 6-footers isn't driving. Cargo capacity with the hatchback is average for the class, but the sedan's trunk space is quite generous.

Used Chevrolet Sonic Models
The Chevrolet Sonic was an all-new model for 2012. Although the current Sonic offers a few more available perks, such as the sporty RS trim level and the MyLink infotainment system, these Sonics are otherwise similar to today's car.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome little car! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By sooogud - February 4 - 12:44 pm

  Its an awesome small car that doesnt drive like a small car. Ive had it for over 7 months and 10,000 miles and its been a great experience. The 6-speed manual turbo is a must for this car, though. I test drove the 5-speed auto 1.8L and it doesnt cut it for highway driving. The turbo engine is pretty responsive makes on-ramps and passing a blast. MPG is pretty decent at about 36–40mpg on average, and thats not taking it easy on the accelerator. In cold weather (i.e., 32F or lower), however, mpg drops to about 30–34mpg. Great little car, definite recommendation from my experience.

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  RS Manual - fun drive, great value! Built in U.S.A! - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By jlearn - February 3 - 2:17 pm

  As a college student and an avid auto industry enthusiast, It was time for me to sell my old beast of an SUV and purchase my first NEW car. I was sorting through competitors such as the Mini Cooper S, Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Beetle, Fiat 500C, Hyundai Veloster Turbo. After adding up all the features I wanted in my next car purchase, and compared the competition, the answer was clear! For what I would be spending on a GTI or Mini I got a whole lot cheaper with the Sonic RS. Granted those vehicles are better performing, yes, but Im a college guy on a limited budget, that wanted character, performance, and value! I love my Sonic RS. The 6-speed is a blast and sharp corners are my favorite!

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  LTZ Turbo review - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By jchagtdi - January 22 - 12:14 pm

  I own a 2013 Sonic LTZ turbo with manual transmission. This is the quietest, most solid feeling, most fun to drive, and best equipped car you can buy at this price point. Turbo motor provides great acceleration with excellent fuel economy. Cabin is extremely comfortable and spacious for a subcompact, even with the sunroof, and cabin materials look richer than they actually are. MyLInk stereo offers a LOT, but there are no knobs, You must take your eyes off the road to adjust volume or FM tuner.

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  LOVE my Sonic! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By lagrinceri - January 10 - 5:22 pm

  I bought my Sonic LT Hatch in April and Ive loved every minute of it. From its exterior design that stands out daily, to the comfortable interior with neat features (came with the bluetooth and conv package) I wouldnt change my mind for anything. I spent a year+ researching cars and I finally found a match with the Sonic. Coming from a 2005 Ford Focus manual, it was different getting used to the automatic transmission. Once you get past that hump, its a win-win for everyone.

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  Great Buy! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By themrchen - December 20 - 11:42 am

  bought this car for my daughter, I was enjoying my new camaro and noticed what a sharp looking vehicle this was, she needed a new car and we got a good deal, about 14k. car gets over 35 mpg highway and 30 mpg in town mixed communting, never misses a beat. handling was funny when new, car came with 46 pounds of air in tires, tail would wag on hwy, reduced pressure and broke tires in and handling is perfect. what more could you ask from this 14k$ car? its fantastic

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  Love my Sonic! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By krystalhoffman - December 9 - 10:41 pm

  I absolutely love my Chevy Sonic Hatchback. Its extremely fun to drive, has great MPG (35-40 for me), has great handling, and is comfortable. Its an inexpensive car that has some great features like Bluetooth and such. The main problems Ive had with this car are the tires. I have had 11 flat tires in 10 months. They seem to go flat for no reason, so Im hoping its just the stock tires on it. Ive also had a few other problems with parts breaking. I drive my car pretty hard though (being a teenager in Wyoming), so its not surprising. Luckily, my warranty covered nearly everything.

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  Just got 2013 Sonic LTZ Hatchback Turbo Automatic - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By key1cc - September 30 - 10:19 am

  I only had it for one day but if yesterday is any indication, life just got waaaayyyy better. I went across state to by it to get the exact features I wanted so I had a nice 55 minute ride home to test her out. Driving at 67mph I hit the mpg reset key and it showed 40-42 mpg!! For me that is nice but the reason I purchased this car was not for the mpg or even for the looks because I like the look of the Kia Rio SX a little better. The reason I went with the sonic was that big fat grin that comes on my face when I get behind the wheel and press the gas pedal. This is the first turbo I have ever owned and boy is it fun to drive. I even woke up in the night just to take her out for a spin!

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  2012 chevy sonic lt i love my car - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By joes02 - August 28 - 10:07 pm

  I have owned this car sense may 2012 I wanted a new escape but I went to ford to look at them and for a used 09 escape they wanted 25,000 i said no way. Went to Chevy and looked around they where nice and very helpful I looked and looked at the sonic until i found the one I Loved Test drove it and went back to buy it, They made sure i could really afford the car because Im 19 buying a car WITHOUT CO SIGNER and going to college. I knew I could and may I say Im glad I got my Sonic I love it I had a 95 nissan that I loved but I wanted a New car so I got what I wanted. It gets 26 mpg and Im happy with it i wish was more because of the STUPID gas prices but not complaining. Love this car!!!

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  supersonic - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By chetj - August 13 - 1:55 am

  this car runs great, gets 37 mpg, is roomy and gutsy. I am very glad i bought it. My price was 13 k total after gm card rebate. Assembled in mich too. Help the workers in lake orion GM assembly and buy a sonic

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  Great value, fun to drive - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By davejet - August 7 - 3:05 pm

  My primary criteria for a new car were that it be small and four-wheel down towable behind my motor home. I narrowed my choice to the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Sonic. It looked at and drove both cars in the top trim levels. I purchased the Sonic because I got much more car for less money. I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The Sonic is fun to drive, has plenty of power and has all the bells and whistles including Bluetooth for the phone, automatic headlights, cruise control, etc. There is no wind noise on the freeway and the ride is extremely smooth. I don’t realize I’m doing 75 until I look at the digital speedometer. After several weeks with most new cars, I usually have a list of fixit items for the dealer. There is no list for the Sonic. I paid 18, 372 for the car.