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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  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.

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  Dont fall for the lies! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By jimmymoon - August 6 - 12:33 am

  Chevrolet loves to boast the claim that their little bucket of plastic known as the Chevy Sonic LT will blast the streets gnabbing a low mileage of 25mpg City, but let me tell you now, thats a straight of fallacy. Ive owned one of these P.O.S. since decemeber, when they were 17,000. This craptacular ride gets maybe a whopping 19 miles per every gallon, and all chevy claims is that there is nothing wrong! Mind you Ive taken every avenue theyve suggested, tried using fuel from their suggested stations, and even went so far as to try a few cleaners. Not a thing has brought me over that 19mpg threshhold. If youre thinking about buying this car, DONT Chevy will not stand behind it.

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  1 LZ turbo Love it - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By i8ahonda - July 16 - 3:24 am

  Absolutely love my sonic ordered the car march 7 showed up at the dealer april 20 and i couldnt be happier. Due to the low price i bought one loaded love the performance hankooks and the size of the trunk, also doesnt look like everything else available and this is one of the most gorgeous blues ever sprayed on a car. over 6000 miles in three months and going strong. consistently average 34-38 mpg and the car handles better the faster you go.

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  Great Buy - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By stompthegas - July 12 - 11:31 am

  I have owned a string of Japanese cars for the past 20 years including 2 Camrys, Corolla, Sequioa, Maxima, Infinti, Sentra, Frontier plus a few domestics, Cavalier, Corsica, Dakota RT, Durango, Contour V6, Corvette, and a Taurus. I grew up up on Pintos, Dusters, and other rust buckets. Plus I have rented 100s of car of all various makes and models. This is by far the biggest bang for the buck I have ever owned or drove. I have the base model purchased at a steep discount but the car still far exceeds my expectations. The 1.8 engine combined with the manual 5 speed is a hoot to drive. It feels quick, handles great, and is reasonably comfortable and quiet.

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  Amazing performance for a small car! - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By edtamber - May 7 - 2:08 pm

  My husband actually brought this car to my attention after my current vehicle had to put in the shop with no hope of repair. After going back and forth, I finally decided to give it a chance and test drove the vehicle for 2 days. I was amazed! I have one child and there was plenty of room for him in the back and they really made every little bit of space count in this car!! Needless to say I was sold and we ended up buying it on the day I was to return it!!

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  Got my sonic jan 2012 - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By redstaralways - April 4 - 6:16 am

  I love this ca.r I have over 5000 miles on it already. Gas milage is just unbeleivable. I love trucks and I went from a crewcab colorado to this sonic and I just love it. Drove it from florida to san antonio texas and back, the car was just awesome.very very pleased would buy another with no hesitation.

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  6 speed manual 1.4 sonic - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By igelbuki - March 29 - 5:48 am

  Now with 1100 miles on sonic, and hiway driving at 68 mph is 41-42 mpg. Plenty of acceleration when needed, and the ride is comfortable.

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  Sonic review - 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
  By gresh - March 25 - 7:50 pm

  I bought my sonic as a cheap commuter car. I got a pretty good deal on it. I have 800 miles on it as of this post, 90% of which is highway miles. The car is getting about 41 miles to the gallon on the hwy and about 38 in the city. I am truly impressed with the mileage. I really didnt need the car to look good as I just wanted a reliable commuter, but it looks nice as well. The ride is very good for the class of car. I own a BMW, and its not in that class, but holds its own in the lightweight class. The inside of it sucks compared to my BMW, but it works for what I need it for. It has Bluetooth and thats all I need. The other features such as Sirius radio and iPod controls are a plus.