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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  Great First New Car Buying Experience! - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By lrohlfs - June 29 - 12:20 pm

  My parents worked with Andre before on the purchase of my dads camero and had a wonderful experience the first time, which is why my mom chose to go back and have Andre sell us my new Chevy Sonic. I love the car! For the price, the options that come with it are unavailable at other places. This deal just seemed to fit what we were looking for perfectly!

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  Very good small car - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By brian228 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  We have had our Sonic LTZ with 1.4L and automatic for just over 3 months now and have close to 8000 miles on it. So far no problems whatsoever. We are a retired couple (67 years old) and feel comfortable in this car. Gas mileage has been very good with 38.7 mpg reading on the car display and we also check it the old fashioned way and get similar results. It is a fairly quiet car depending on the road surfaces- some coarse pavement causing noticeable road noise but wind noise is low even on the interstate highway. Handling is good but as one or two reviewers mentioned potholes or certain road irregularities can cause some darting.

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  disappointed - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By indyguy13 - June 9 - 10:29 pm

  I bought a 2013 Sonic LS sedan in late Feb., 2013. 3,400 miles on it. The steering feels loose, especially at highway speeds. Wanders in the lane and you constantly have to correct. Took it back to Chev. dealers 3 times and they said nothing was wrong. Ive owned/driven many small cars and never had this issue before. The heater takes a long time to warm up. No engine temperature gauge. Poor visibility. Rough ride. Idles rough. Must use synthetic oil (Dexos). Transmission not smooth. Very cheap, ugly upholstery. MyLink sound system but no CD player. Want to buy American? This has a Hungarian engine, Korean tires, and Chinese spare tire. Buy something else, not a Sonic.

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  Was excited at first, not so much now - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By jkrug26 - June 2 - 2:58 pm

  This vehicle was my first new car. Being a single mom and having to drive two young children around I wanted something reliable. I didnt try and have my children attempt to get into the vehicle before purchasing but the rear door handles are up too far for my kids to reach. Secondly, and more concerning there is an issue with the ignition. My keys dont seem to want to go into the ignition. And IF they manage to make it in they get stuck in the ignition. I was stuck at the grocery store for ten minutes while I tried to get the car started because it seemed the tumbler was not engaging correctly with the key. Chevy needs to make this right!!!!!!

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  Pleased and anticipating good things... - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By kmanderson - February 21 - 9:08 pm

  Have about 600 miles now on my new Sonic LS Hatch 5speed manual. Overall I am very pleased. Steering is light & crisp, ride is poised and quiet and the car feels solid. I have been impressed. Entry to/from the rear seats is no problem and my kids all are wanting me to take them to their events in this little car. I bought this car as my 3rd car for a runabout and for my kids to drive. I traded in a Hyundai Elantra and have found the clutch, shifter and steering to be superior to what I had in the Hyundai. ---One thing I really dislike: There is a terrible reflection in the windshield of the dash and its shiny materials...especially on sunny days. So annoying. Chevy---plz help !

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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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  Phonics - 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
  By musicmitch - February 1 - 2:01 am

  The suspension is poor. It does not soak up bumps well, or handle potholes well, producing a very uncomfortable ride. Unless you are living in an area with beautifully paved streets and you drive on them all the time - this probably wont matter. And also suspension is designed poorly - unstable. The car jolts left and right when hitting rough pavement, making me wonder what happens if youre on the expressway going fast and you run into this. I think the car is accident prone. The 1.8 engine is noisy, lacks passing power, and wind/road noise is excessive. The 1.4Turbo option quiets the engine noise somewhat and increases torque, but does nothing about the excessive road noise caused by poor insulation. This car is built a little but like the old suvs. Thin and high, rather than long and wide. The center of gravity is too high and too narrow instead of being low and wide. Test drive one yourself and see if im right. On the plus, its much better than the car it replaces - The Aveo. So if you liked that car, youll love this one. Me, ill skip it. Now also think about this: this same 1.8 engine is being used in the much heavier chevy cruz LS also. So do you think you should avoid that trim line? If you decide on the cruz, opt for a higher model with the 1.4 turbo, but its also much more expensive.

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  I had hoped for more . . . - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By kebleil - January 22 - 11:57 pm

  We purchased this car - actually its the LT Turbo 6m - in July 2012. Right away we were disappointed with the mpg and the discrepancies with the digital read-out. On average, we probably get 2-3 mpg less than what the car says we do. It seems like the mpgs are all over the place as you read the reviews. Some getting fantastic - some getting terrible mileages. We are usually in the 30-32mpg range. What is confusing is that we got better mileage at first but it seems to be declining. We are nearly 7000 miles. The disappointment was accentuated when after 7 weeks of ownership we were pelted with extensive hail damage - not gms fault, of course, but it lowered our excitement.

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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.