Chevrolet Sonic Hatchback and Sedan Launched at Detroit!
General Motors has released details and images of the new Chevrolet Aveo that will be unwrapped later at Detroit, just that it is not called the Aveo, but Sonic. Like the car it replaces, the B-segment Sonic is available in 2 body styles – 5 door hatchback and 4 door sedan. Both variants deliver “class-leading rear-seat roominess and cargo space” according to General Motor. In the US, the subcompact Sonic takes on the Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit. In America, the Sonic will come with relatively powerful engines for its size. The Ecotec 1400cc turbo (138 hp/200 Nm from 1,850 to 4,900 rpm) and the 135 hp/167 Nm Ecotec 1.8L are also found in big brother Cruze. Three transmissions are available: a 5 speed manual or 6 speed automatic with the 1800cc and a 6 speed manual for the sporty 1.4 turbo.
These modern powerplants come with features such as low-mass hollow-frame cast iron block, DOHC with VVT, chain-driven cams, roller-finger camshaft followers, piston-cooling oil jets and integrated oil cooler, variable-flow oil pump and electronically controlled thermostat. The 1.4′s turbocharger is integrated within the exhaust manifold for reduced weight and greater packaging flexibility. General Motor talks about “fun to drive” in the release, mentioning that Corvette engineers tuned the Sonic’s ride and handling. The hardware is par for the class – front MacPherson struts, back torsion beam, EPS steering, front disc brakes and back drums are expected.
The body structure is claimed to be among the stiffest in the segment. Sonic’s unique “flat top frame” cradle, for example, assures optimal stiffness in the front chassis portion, while he back axle is straight without contour for packaging restraints and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. Wheels are as big as 17" for the turbo model. The funky cabin’s highlight is the motorcycle inspired instrument panel, which combines analog with digital displays. The centre stack is typical modern General Motor; it and the steering wheel will be familiar to Cruze owners. Front “bucket seats” are standard and heated front seats are available along with remote start and sunroof. Connectivity includes OnStar, XM Satellite Radio, USB/Bluetooth and MyChevrolet mobile application. On the safety front, 10 standard air bags, Antilock Braking System, EBD, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response are included. Production of the Sonic begins later this year in Michigan. General Motor says that Chevy is the only company building a small car in the US and Sonic will help restore about 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area. This could be a big selling point for a US economy that is still facing issues with unemployment.
{Source: Paultan}