The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic Is Back In The Game With Its Grown-Up Face Lift

Chevy's little Sonic has always tried its best to compete with its rivals such as the Honda Fit and the Ford Fiesta. Now, the all new 2017 Chevrolet Sonic is back for revenge.

Back in 2012, the automaker replaced the Aveo with the Sonic hatchback and sedan. The subcompact Sonic lies between the entry-level Chevrolet Spark hatchback minicar and as well as the compact Cruze hatchback and sedan.

For 2017, the Sonic hatchback and sedan gets a styling refresh such as revised grille, a lower fascia, new headlights with LED accent lights and redesigned taillights. Other new styling changes will include new wheel styles and new paint color options.

With trim levels, the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic offers additional features such as a heated steering wheel, an updated Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with 7.0-inch screen, and keyless entry with push-button start. It also includes 4G LTE, Apple CarPlay,  Android Auto, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning.

The 2017 model comes in with two body styles and two engine options. The base engine is a 1.8-liter l-4 that produces 138 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The fuel economy ratings for the car is still unknown, however, for 2016 models, the 1.8 liters was rated at 24-26/35 mpg city/highway. The other engine is a turbocharged 1.4-liter l-4 that produces 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. It will be paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic and has a 2016 EPA ratings of 27-29/37-40 mpg.

For safety features, the 2016 Chevy Sonic hatchback and sedan before got a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. In fact, the sedan is considered a 2016 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. In addition to 10 standard airbags, the car is also available with a rear park assist, and a rearview camera comes standard for 2017.

Chevrolet said that the 2017 Sonic's available power driver's seat is the first in the segment. Its key competitors are Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris IA, Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, and Honda Fit.