Not that that’s the claim, though. To quote Chris Perry, Vice President of Global Chevrolet Marketing, the new arrival “takes the Sonic’s great design and latest connectivity features and combines them with a more performance-oriented look and feel.”
So it’s unsurprising that outputs from the 1.4 litre Ecotec engine could best be described as adequate: maximum power is 138 bhp (103 kW / 139 PS), while peak torque is 200 Nm (148 lb/ft). But Chevrolet probably realises that many target customers are going to focus on economy as much as performance, although no figures have been released that would indicate how well that particular balance has been achieved.
For enhanced driving dynamics, the suspension is lowered and stiffened, while stopping ability should be improved thanks to the disc brakes that are fitted both front and rear.
The RS treatment also means a host of visual tweaks that work well on the already smart Sonic. Available as a five-door only, changes from the regular versions include a body kit, five-spoke 17” alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a unique grille and a different finish for the door mirror caps.
Among the special interior features are sports seats, a thick-rimmed sports steering wheel and aluminium pedals. Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system also comes as standard. Based around a seven-inch touch screen and Bluetooth connectivity, this allows the driver to load music, listen to Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio and access navigation functions via their smart phone.
The Chevrolet Sonic RS will be seen in public for the first time at January’s North American International Auto Show. Sales are due to begin in late 2012.
Images © GM Company.
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