GM has announced that the 2012 Chevy Sonic equipped with the 1.4L turbo gets an EPA estimated 40 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city when it’s equipped with the six-speed manual transmission.
“Sonic changes the sub-compact stereotype and puts an end to the term ‘econobox,'” said Joaquin Nuño-Whelan, Sonic vehicle line director and vehicle chief engineer. “The 1.4L turbo saves money at the gas pump and is a ridiculously fun car to drive. So, our buyers are getting a safe, exciting and fuel efficient car at a great price with the 1.4L turbo.”
The 1.4L turbocharged engine puts out 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. of torque. The 1.4L is also used in the larger Chevy Cruze.
The Sonic is also available with a 1.8L that gets up to 35 mpg on the highway.
“Our engineers wanted to bring a car with an athletic feel and an excellent ride and handling to a segment not known for excitement,” said Nuño-Whelan. “Combine these driving characteristics with the 40-mpg fuel economy rating and we think we have a winning combination for Sonic drivers.”
