Chevrolet’s quest to build small cars initially relied on foreign partners or overseas divisions, including its Korean operation. The US-made Chevrolet Sonic replaced the Korean-made Chevrolet Aveo, proving that small cars could be built in America by domestic producers. The Sonic is a subcompact model, offered in sedan and hatchback configurations, and available with naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines.
Chronicling the Changes
2020 – Two new color choices are the only changes to the Sonic in what becomes its final year of production.
2019 – All grades now come with the turbo engine only as Chevrolet drops the previously standard 1.8-liter engine.
2018 — Chevrolet updates the available Sun and Fun Package to include 17-inch aluminum wheels and the turbo engine.
2017 – For 2017, Chevrolet refreshes the Sonic with four new exterior colors, new wheel designs, a refreshed front fascia, new lighting elements, and a new hood design. Moreover, the rear fascia is also new. Inside, the Sonic receives a new gauge cluster, available power driver’s seats, and USB ports. Other changes include available keyless open and start and heated cloth seats along with a heated steering wheel. Rear Park Assist is added to the available Driver Confidence Package.
2016 – Light changes accompany the 2016 model, including the now-standard Chevrolet MyLink for the LT. Also, all LTZ models come with an automatic transmission only.
2015 — The LTZ grade now comes with the turbocharged engine as standard equipment. Chevrolet adds 4G WiFi across the model line.
2014 – For the 2014 model year, Chevrolet made minor updates to the Sonic including exterior design tweaks, new wheel designs, and added optional features such as a rearview camera and a technology package with a seven-inch touchscreen display and smartphone integration. The car also received improved suspension tuning for a smoother ride, and the interior was updated with higher-quality materials and new color options.
2013 – Bluetooth connectivity and blind-spot mirrors are now included. The options include Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment with a touchscreen and a navigation app. A new RS grade joins the LS, LT, and LTZ trims.
2012 — The previous Chevy Aveo is now the all-new Chevrolet Sonic. This subcompact model comes in sedan and hatchback configurations. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is standard; a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine was optional. The standard engine works with a five-speed manual transmission; the turbo has a six-speed gearbox. Optionally, both engines may work with a six-speed automatic transmission to route power to the front wheels. The Sonic is known for its sporty lines and motorcycle-inspired instrument panel. Anti-lock brakes come standard; OnStar and a four-speaker audio system are standard. The options list includes fog lamps, a six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, a sunroof, and imitation leather seats.
First-Generation Chevrolet Sonic
Chevrolet Sonic Considerations
General Motors (GM) discontinued the Chevrolet Sonic due to declining sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards larger vehicles and crossover SUVs. The automaker also discontinued several other small cars in its lineup and instead focused on expanding its offerings in the truck and SUV segments.
Few models are left in the shrinking subcompact car segment. Shoppers might compare the Mitsubishi Mirage, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Nissan Versa. Recently discontinued models included the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, and Toyota Yaris. The Volkswagen Golf soldiers on, but in limited quantities.
See Also — History of the Chevrolet Volt
Photo Attribution
By Vauxford – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikipedia
By Kevauto — Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikipedia
