The latest generation of the Chevrolet Sonic takes the most desirable assets of its predecessor including its youthfully designed exterior, premium-feeling interior, and the American brand’s signature drive performance. It is a young and urban subcompact vehicle built perfectly for city driving. The revitalized version of the Sonic now has updated entertainment features including the latest Chevy MyLink system. It now also comes with more cabin and cargo space making it more versatile and practical compared to its previous generations. Offered in the Philippines is the Chevrolet Sonic LTZ which is powered by a 1.4-liter I4 gasoline engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that can easily be converted to manual mode through a lever.
Launch
The Chevrolet Sonic was first introduced to the Philippine market in 2012. A refreshed version was then released locally in November 2014. However, the Sonic is currently not available in the local market. Instead, Chevrolet PH is offering the Sail as the vehicle that replaces the Sonic in its local model lineup.
Exterior
The Chevrolet Sonic has similar proportions with its predecessor, the Aveo, however, the differences lie in the details. It boasts of a more aggressive stance with a square-jawed face and an oversized dual-port grille flanked by black-rimmed automatic halogen headlights and fog lamps. On the rear are more striking design features that add to the subcompact’s sportiness. Its taillights are sitting exposed complemented by a subtle rear spoiler and rear fog lamps. The hidden rear door handles add a fun and youthful touch to the years-old Sonic. Completing the look is a set of 16-inch alloys.
Interior
The Sonic’s cabin looks on-brand with Chevrolet—sporty, modern, and rendered mostly in hard but sturdy plastics with accents of silver and a plethora of textured dark surfaces. It sports a gray and black color palette with ice-blue lighting on the instrument panel. The dashboard comes in the typical motorcycle-type gauges paired to an analog tachometer with a digital speedometer. Its center console is similar to that of the Colorado’s. Seats are wrapped in dark fabric that is soft to touch. On the rear is a spacious underfloor compartment plus a spare tire compartment under which, giving passengers wide room for cargo.
Technology & Safety Features
Its entertainment system has likewise been revamped with the Chevy MyLink integration. Known to many, Chevrolet has a great-sounding audio system, and the Sonic is no exception from this technology. It also comes with USB ports, smartphone integration, and GPS for convenient navigation.
In terms of safety, the Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with keyless entry, Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Parking Sensors, and complete airbags on the front row seats.
Platform & Chassis
The 5-seater subcompact’s suspension system remains to be Independent, MacPherson Strut in front complemented by Torsion Beam Axle at the rear. Stopping power comes from front vented disc and rear drum brakes.
Engine & Drivetrain
Under the hood of the Chevrolet Sonic is a 1.4-liter I4 gasoline engine that produces 99 hp and 130 Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that comes with a responsive manual mode that can be activated through a lever-mounted rocker switch. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels.