Merk Car World

When should an automaker change a radically new car's name? For Volkswagen, a big, American-size Passat is still a Passat. For Chevrolet, the new Aveo replacement is now the Sonic. Like the Passat, it represents a significant change.
Like its next-size up sibling, Cruze, the 2012 Chevy Sonic is on the large size of its segment, the b-car category now populated by Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit.
"Don't call it an Aveo replacement," says Chevy small car marketing director Margaret Brooks, even after we have called it the Aveo replacement.
Styling is much improved, with a nice, small-car take on the classic Chevy front end-graphics. Chevy has shown the hatchback for a long time, though this is the first official look at the four-door sedan. Like Ford with its Fiesta, Chevy is expecting the hatchback to be the volume model, especially with young, first-time buyers.
The Sonic retains the motorcycle-like instrument panel and uncovered dual headlamps of the concept version. Engines are from the Cruze, a 135-horsepower/123 pound-feet 1.8-liter Ecotec four available with a five-speed manual, and a 138-horsepower/148 pound-feet 1.4-liter Ecotec turbo four, available with a six-speed manual. Either engine also gets a six-speed automatic option. The Sonic is six inches shorter, and 500 pounds lighter than the Cruze, though Chevy also claims class-leading rear legroom and cargo space.
Electronic power steering and Stabilitrak will be standard when the car goes on sale this fall. Optional features will include OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation, XM radio, a USB port, Bluetooth connection, the MyChevrolet mobile app, OnStar MyLink, and remote start, heated front seats and sunroof. See? It's not a rental.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic