One of Our Favorite B-Segments Receives the “RS” Treatment

[xcel]

It’s called Sonic and its “badder” than before.

Wayne Gerdes - CleanMPG - Aug 22, 2012

Chevrolet Sonic RS with the highly recommended 6-speed stick - $20,995 including destination with EPA certification TBA.

The new RS is the next chapter of “Youthful Exuberance” which the Sonic provides in spades. As a five-door hatch, it is shod with even more exterior and interior features than its predecessor while maintaining the rear seat down cargo capacity of 47.7 cu. ft. That is almost as large as some compact CUVs only the Sonic is half the price and more fun to drive

The Sonic RS is powered by the same Cruze Eco 1.4L Turbo we have come to respect but the six-speed manual’s final has been upped for a shorter overall gearing for a more sporty feel. I guess it will now be exclusively known as a P&G car?

And what did we like in the original Sonic? Cargo capacity, reasonable weight, quietness compared to its competitors, best handling in its class nice interior appointments and even its fuel economy capability. When can we say that about a recent offering from the General other than the Volt?

Production begins in October at GMs Orion, MI Assembly Center. As of this writing, the Sonic is the only subcompact built in the United States.

Exterior Features

• New RS-specific grille
• New rear fascia
• New rear spoiler
• New rocker moldings
• Bright exhaust outlet
• Unique 17-inch five-spoke alloys
• Lowered and stiffened suspension with performance-tuned dampers
• RS badging
• A power, tilt-sliding sunroof with express-open and wind deflector feature is available.
  Exterior colors include Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic – a new, premium exterior color for 2013.

Interior Features

• Leather-appointed front bucket seats with suede microfiber inserts and red RS accents
• New sport three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting stitching and racing-inspired flat-bottom design
• New, leather-wrapped shifter knob with red stitching (manual transmission)
• New aluminum sport pedals
• Specific instrument panel cluster graphics
• Standard Chevrolet MyLink

MyLink is standard on Sonic RS and an AM/FM/SiriusXM Satellite Radio (with three months of service) stereo with seek-and-scan, digital clock, Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phones, voice recognition for compatible phones and six-speakers.

MyLink operates by integrating the owner’s compatible smartphone and stored media – via Bluetooth, plug-in outlet or USB – with the radio. This lets owners enjoy simple, safe and personalized connectivity while their smartphone is safely stowed.

MyLink-equipped Sonic models will launch with compatibility for Pandora internet radio and Stitcher Smart Radio. Other functions include:

• Personal playlists of stored music
• Hands-free calling with Bluetooth-enabled voice activation from the customer’s smartphone when the steering wheel button is depressed. (Visit gm.com/Bluetooth for a list of compatible smartphones)
• Ability to project video via USB while the vehicle is parked
• Ability to project a photo album in “slideshow” mode via USB while the vehicle is parked

And what we are really waiting for it the embedded BringGo app for MyLink that delivers [b]full-function navigation – including live traffic updates for as little as $50.

The RS is the only Sonic model offered with four-wheel discs which are partnered with a four-channel anti-lock braking system. The four-sensor system – one at each wheel – incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on such factors as road conditions and the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Electric power steering is standard and features a wear compensator that continually adjusts the system interaction with the steering gear to ensure precise steering action over the life of the system.

Standard hill start assist makes it easier to pull away from a stopped position when the vehicle is on a steep uphill or downhill slope.

Early Conclusions

A B-segment favorite gets some upgrades and while the lower gearing will harm it on the highway, we have an app for that Hopefully we will receive one into the Chicago press fleet prior to winter or maybe, just maybe I can drive one out in LA for the LA Auto Show this November?

For more on the Sonic, consider the following: CleanMPG Reviews the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic

[ksstathead]

And when they come out with the 10 MT, the final will have to be worse still. Perhaps when they get to the 15 MT, we can get one gear for highway driving.

[xcel]

Hi Ksstathead:

The tall 6th in the std. Sonic with the 1.4L turbo was just about right for that size engine. While the RS is a step backward (no ratios were provided yet???), its intended market is not for those of us pushing for 70 + mpg (the new 60 mpg ). I am just not sure if the youth market is ready for a $21K B-segment hatch with a stick?

Wayne

[phoebeisis]

No added HP?
But the lower gearing might improve acceleration a bit.
It will certainly appeal to the young crowd GM absolutely NEEDS to get hold of.

GM probably knows their business-the young crowd wants flash-all show no go-along with fancy sound systems.
A bit shorter gearing what is your guess- 2 mpg lost at 60 mph?? Probably a reasonable trade off for free acceleration-same motor etc.


I'm a GM cheerleader now-so I like everything that puts them in a better position with young buyers. And I LOVE hatchbacks-the SWs of 2012.Can't see ANY reason ALL cars aren't hatchbacks-or genuine SWs.
Charlie

[herm]

I think the rebates and cash-on-the-hood are already priced in. Meanwhile for 2014 GM is planning to offer the Sonic with a Opel designed 1.6L Turbo engine, with start-stop, DFI, and up to 200hp

[PaleMelanesian]

No added horsepower. That's fine. The suspension, wheels, brakes and other things are upgraded. That's fantastic. There's a lot more to a fun car than straight line acceleration. This package saves some gas as well by not hopping up the engine. Just my style.