Guess what? The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has standard aluminum wheels. The Sonic, on sale this fall, seeks to recruit buyers with quality, features, and—to borrow a phrase overused by German car companies—driving pleasure.A brief disclaimer: Our driving exposure was limited to preproduction prototypes in one configuration (1.4-liter turbo, manual transmission, five-door) on an improvised circuit at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Sonic has slightly different gearing and weighs about 400 fewer pounds than the Cruze, so we expect better acceleration and fuel economy across the board. The Sonic’s turbo pulls well above 3000 rpm; there is noticeable lag at lower engine speeds, despite a low torque peak of 1850 rpm. Chevrolet had a Honda Fit and a Ford Fiesta on hand for comparison, and the Sonic held up well. The Honda, which is geared shorter, feels better at low engine speeds. The Sonic is an economy car, which means sacrifices in creature comforts. Both Sonic sedan and hatchback share the same 99.4-inch wheelbase. The hatch also has slightly better rear-seat headroom. Chevrolet won’t divulge Sonic pricing until the fall on-sale date gets closer, only hinting that it will be competitive in the segment. Also like the Fiesta, we’re guessing the Sonic hatch will command a premium for its more attractive looks, although we have to say that the Sonic sedan manages to look something less than dumpy—a huge achievement in this segment. Even in base LS trim, the Sonic comes with the aforementioned wheels, plus air conditioning, power locks, keyless entry, stability control, and an impressive 10 air bags.
As part of GM’s restructuring, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be assembled in Lake Orion, Michigan. The good news for Chevy, however, is that the Sonic appeals on its merits as a car and not as a piece of flag-waving patriotism.
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