Chevrolet unveiled this Thursday (7) the new Sonic, a compact SUV. Produced in Brazil, the model is positioned between the Onix and the Tracker, and gains two trim levels: Premier and RS, the latter with a sportier look. With promotional launch pricing in effect, the Sonic is priced at R$ 129,990 and R$ 135,990, respectively.
The model is a derivative of the Onix, built on the GEM platform. The engine is a 1.0-liter turbo flex three-cylinder, capable of producing 115 hp. It is the same powerplant as the Tracker. Torque is 18.9 kgf·m, and the transmission is a six-speed automatic. Top speed is 200 km/h, electronically limited, and 0-100 km/h acceleration is achieved in 10.0 seconds.
On the highway, the Sonic delivers a fuel economy of 14.8 km/L when powered by gasoline, and 10.4 km/L with ethanol in the tank, according to Inmetro. In city driving, the figures are 12.0 km/L and 11.5 km/L, respectively. The newest Chevrolet model measures 4.23 meters in length, 2.55 meters in width and 1.77 meters in height. The wheelbase is 1.53 meters, while ground clearance is 20 cm. The trunk capacity is 392 liters.
Externally, the Sonic features split LED headlights in two blocks, a honeycomb grille that extends into the bumper. The Chevrolet logo is also illuminated. The wheels are 17 inches, while the rear features taillights connected by a light strip. The roof is painted black, and in the RS version there are also darkened alloy wheels.
The Sonic will reach dealerships in the first half of May and comes in six color options: Boreal Blue, Summit White, Shark Silver, Black Gold Black, Scarlet Red, and Urban Gray, the latter being a new shade.
Inside, the Chevrolet Sonic features a more refined dashboard compared to the Onix. The seats have extra foam, as is the case with the Tracker, delivering greater comfort to the driver, while the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and armrests use higher-quality synthetic coverings than those of the Onix.
The 11-inch infotainment system includes wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the instrument panel is 8 inches. In the RS version there is also ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, and a welcome projection light.
Among the equipment are automatic digital air conditioning, digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless cellphone charging, full-LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, rear-view camera, native Wi-Fi and semi-autonomous parking assist (with pedal and gear control).
As for safety features, the Sonic includes an ADAS system such as lane-keeping assist with active correction, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alerts, and a terrain-change detector.