New for 2015

The Chevrolet Sonic returns for the 2015 model year better than ever. All Sonic LTZ models now come standard with a turbocharged engine, and 4G Wi-Fi hotspot capability is now standard across the model line.

Small Footprint, Big Impression  

Good things come in small packages, and nowhere is that old saying more appropriate than with the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic.

Finding the right subcompact car isn’t always easy, what with the myriad of options littering the marketplace. But if you’re in the hunt for something that offers a roomy interior, excellent fuel economy, and an affordable price tag, then we strongly recommend the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic. As they say, good things really do come in small packages.

Powertrains and Performance

Motivation for the Sonic is provided by a standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. Power is driven to the front wheels via a standard five-speed manual. A six-speed automatic is an available option.

The 1.8-liter has plenty of pep, but it’s also incredibly efficient. Frequent trips to the pump are made less so thanks to an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined fuel economy (26 city/35 highway) with the standard manual,* and 28 mpg combined (25 city/35 highway) with the available automatic.*

Choice is one of the Sonic’s many strong suits and in addition to the 1.8-liter, the Sonic is also available with a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder. Although its 138 horsepower output mirrors the base engine, it feels more potent thanks to its 148 pound-feet of torque. For models equipped with the turbocharged engine, a six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic transmission is optional.

The move to a turbocharged engine is a boon not only to performance, but to fuel economy as well. Fuel economy is rated at 33 mpg combined (29 city/40 highway) with the manual and 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway) with the automatic.*

Features and Trims

The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic starts at $14,245** and is available in sedan and four-door hatchback body styles. Both models seat up to five and are available in four trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ, and RS.

LS models come equipped with 15-inch wheels, automatic headlights, manual mirrors with integrated blind-spot coverage, and power locks. Additional standard features include remote keyless entry, manual windows, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, and a height-adjustable driver seat.

The Sonic also sports a robust list of electronic features designed to make your drives more enjoyable. These include Bluetooth® phone connectivity, OnStar telematics (with 4G LTE WiFi) and a four-speaker sound system.

LT models add 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior accents, heated power mirrors, upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, power windows, remote ignition (automatic transmission only) and a six-speaker sound system that includes satellite radio.

Next up is the LTZ. Selecting this model gets you the turbocharged engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a rearview camera and the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. The infotainment system is an especially welcome item, as it integrates with wonderfully with a 7-inch touchscreen interface, smartphone app integration, Bluetooth® audio connectivity and a USB/iPod® interface.

Finally, the sporty RS adds four-wheel disc brakes, a sport body kit with a rear spoiler, a sport-tuned suspension, unique 17-inch wheels, sportier exterior trim, leather and simulated suede upholstery and a sport steering wheel.

Design

The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is a true standout among the subcompact segment. It’s a car that fully rejects the notion that an affordable car must be boring. That philosophy is clearly evident in the Sonic’s design, which is as engaging as any model regardless of price tag. In addition to aluminum-alloy wheels and some really eye-popping color choices, the Sonic’s athletic build is one that will keep drivers proud and interested in this diminutive yet dashing car.

Step inside the Sonic and things get even more interesting. From its motorcycle-inspired gauge cluster to its futuristic layout, the Sonic provide a depth of character that is hard to match. Everything comes together wonderfully, and it’s clear Chevrolet’s design team went to great care to ensure the Sonic provides a fun yet functional interior.

Safety

Small in size, big on safety. That may as well be the Sonic’s motto as every 2015 Sonic comes standard with traction and stability control along with antilock brakes (front disc/rear drum on the LS, LT and LTZ trim levels and four-wheel discs on the RS. There are knee airbags for front seat occupants, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. Also standard is OnStar, which includes automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle assistance, and remote door unlocking.

For added protection, a rearview camera is standard on LTZ and RS models and available as an option on the LT. There’s also an Advanced Safety package, which includes forward collision warning (alerting the driver to an imminent impact) and lane-departure warning—optional on all but the entry-level LS.

Bottom Line

Gone are the days where affordable was a synonym for boring. The 2015 Sonic, whether in sedan or hatchback form, bucks that trend, delivering zippy performance, handsome styling, and an impressive list of standard and available features.

To see what makes the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic unlike anything else in its class, contact or visit at 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Use for comparison purposed only.

** The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See dealer for details.

Image: Chevrolet