Automotive Trends

      GM’s been enjoying much improved sales results the last few years and a big driver of that has been the newfound competitiveness in its car lineup. Chevrolet now has a strong entry at every level from the ity bity Spark to the downright handsome Impala and it’s been far too long since we’ve been able to declare that. We just got a crack at the 5-door Sonic and while no one will be using phrases like “downright handsome” to describe it, we found a lot to like about the little Michigan-made Chevy.      First is the excellent 1.4-liter turbo that delivers a stout 148 lb-ft of torque at a very useable 2,500 rpm and manages to earn 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. We liked the 6-speed manual that delivered rewarding shifts and smooth clutch engagement. Just like we noted in the Spark the technology offered at this price point continues to impress. Our $20,405 tester featured a backup camera, bluetooth, lane departure and forward collision alert systems, satellite radio and the touch-screen MyLink system for easily controlling compatible iPhone apps like navigation and Pandora. We would ask Chevy to bring back some simple volume and tuning knobs.
We found the Sonic commendably quiet with a comfortable ride quality and impressive responses considering this wasn’t even a sport-oriented RS model. The seats were very comfortable and nicely bolstered and the driving position was spot on with no sense that this was an economy car. Our particular tester featured a selection of dealer-installed accessories like black wheels and a cat back Borla exhaust that might appeal to young buyers that make up a big part of this car’s target audience but certainly aren’t needed. With solid ergonomics, a willing powertrain and no glaring penalties for choosing one of their smallest cars, a Chevy showroom should be high on your list when shopping in this segment.