The phased introduction of the Sonic, the exciting new small car from Chevrolet began with deliveries to customers of 1.4L and 1.6L Sonic Hatch derivatives in December 2011.
That initial range of just two models is now extended to offer a choice of six models, all to LS trim level, but with a 1.3L diesel engine option for the Sonic hatch range and three new Sonic Sedan models all petrol powered.
These are a 1.4 LS, a 1.6 LS and a 1.6 LS Automatic, this last variant featuring a first for Chevrolet with the introduction of a 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission in the small car segment.
This first new product from Chevrolet based on GM’s ‘Gamma’ new global front wheel drive passenger car architecture, the Sonic Hatch and Sedan offer not only a high level of quality – aimed at achieving best-in-segment standards – and exciting interior and exterior styling, but also a high level of comfort and safety specifications.
The Sonic Hatch and Sedan 1.4 LS are powered by Chevrolet’s new generation 1.4L four-cylinder double overhead camshaft engine with variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust camshafts for an excellent balance between performance and economy.
This engine produces 74kW and 130Nm of torque. The combined cycle fuel economy measured by Chevrolet engineers for this model is just 5.8-litres/100km.
The larger engine Sonic Hatch and Sedan 1.6 LS also feature a new generation four-cylinder engine from Chevrolet, again, a 16-valve, dual overhead camshaft engine with variable valve timing for both inlet and exhaust. Maximum power for this engine is 85kW 155Nm of torque. The combined cycle for this model, again as measured by Chevrolet engineers, is 6.5-litres/100km.
The diesel engine option for the Sonic Hatch offers the latest in common rail turbocharged diesel engine technology with electronic control and variable vane turbo. Maximum power is 70kW and 210Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is a miserly and hard to beat average of a little over 4.5-litres/100km.
All models across the Sonic Hatch and Sedan variants share a common LS specification level that offers an exceptional value proposition. This standard specification includes 15” alloys wheels, power steering, aircon, front electric windows, tinted windows, cupholders, radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, onboard trip computer and fog lamps, among others.
The Chevrolet Sonic is covered by a 5 year/120,000km warranty with roadside assistance for the full warranty period. The anti-corrosion warranty provides cover for 5 years with no limit on kilometres driven.
Service intervals are 15,000km or 1 year. A 3 year/60,000km Service Plan is included in the price.
Available options include an upgrade to the sound system that includes 6 speakers, a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite steering wheel mounted audio controls. Cruise control is also available as a factory fitted option.
Prices:
Sonic Hatch Model Line-up
- 1.4 LS MT 5-spd R156,990
- 1.6 LS MT 5-spd R168,570
- 1.3 LS MT Diesel 6-spd – Diesel only for Hatch bodystyle R178,730
Sonic Sedan Model Line-up
- 1.4 LS MT 5-spd R156,990
- 1.6 LS MT 5-spd R168,570
- 1.6 LS AT 6-spd – AT only for Sedan bodystyle R178,570
- Optional Comfort package – retail price R7,500







