2013 Chevy Sonic 5-Door RS Turbo: Bringing Zest To The Subcompact Segment

  
Highlight: This is the only subcompact built in America.

Test vehicle’s MSRP:  $20,995 (no options added)
                       
Seating Capacity: 5 occupants

Standard Safety Features: 10 airbags (driver, front passenger, side-impact, knee, rear outboard and head); ABS; electronic brake force distribution; stability control; a hill-start assist system; traction control system; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment: 17-inch wheels; RS trim package; manual transmission; remote keyless entry; leather/suede inserts in seats; manual-adjusted front seats; driver seat armrest; premium floor mats; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; heated front seats; a 6-speaker premium audio system with XM-radio; and Chevy’s MyLink (Smartphone-like) audio system; a roof-mounted spoiler; front fog lights; and an aluminum brake/gas pedal.


Standard Audio: a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD with satellite radio

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 100,000 miles

Bluetooth Compatibility: Included

Ipod Compatibility: Included

MP3 Capability: Included

a USB audio interface: Included

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.4-liter/138-horsepower

Standard Fuel Mileage: 27-city/34-hwy

Pros: The motorcycle inspired Sonic hatchback with the RS package, stands out in the subcompact segment. In fact, the five door hatchback adds a flavor that’s lacked by its four door sibling. The exterior design of the Sonic RS slightly mimics the VW Golf hatchback, but a miniature version. The power exuding from the bright exhaust outlet coupled with its standard 17-inch wheels screams excitement (or at least it gives the illusion of such). Well, while this vehicle is no barnburner, the Sonic RS offers great handling with its sports tuned suspension system and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine.

Cons: The Sonic RS we reviewed lacked a sunroof and a center front armrest for the front passenger. Also for those seeking to use their antiquated CDs, think again. This vehicle isn’t equipped with one. We must note a power sunroof is available as an option!

Moreover, the vehicle we reviewed lacked a factory-installed nav system. However, soon an in-dash nav system through a Bring-go smartphone app that can be added via Chevy’s signature MyLink system.

Also with the rear seat in use, the cargo area is virtually non-existent.

Furthermore, we’re not quite ready to pay $21,000 for a souped-up subcompact that could climb up to $23,000 with an automatic transmission and a power sunroof.

Verdict: We’re super excited that the Sonic RS has no connection to the lackluster Korean-built Aveo RS that it replaced. We literally hated any vehicle that Chevy made that was associated with the defunct Daewoo line. With that said, the Sonic RS is one of the best subcompacts we ever driven. Not only was the manual transmission fun-to-drive, it appeared to be a well-built vehicle, too. Overall, the sporty RS adds a little spice to the no frills, price-sensitive compact segment. The Sonic RS offers quite an array of features, but in a pint size package, at a price that could be a draw for those seeking a little excitement in what should be basic transportation.
 

Competition: Nothing, as of now! This could be a whole new segment.