2017 Chevrolet Sonic Hits Dealerships This Fall

NEW YORK — The updated 2017 Chevrolet Sonic subcompact sedan and hatchback, the brand's top vehicle for first-time new buyers, will go on sale this fall at Chevrolet dealerships. It will debut at the 2016 New York Auto Show.

Pricing will be announced closer to the Sonic's launch date.

Chevrolet promises that the Sonic will continue to be offered "at an affordable price."

The 2016 Sonic is priced at $15,220 for the sedan and $15,820 for the hatchback. Pricing includes an $875 destination charge.

Freshened styling, including a new hood, front fascia and lighting, are designed to set the 2017 Sonic apart from its small-car rivals. They are the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio and Nissan Versa.

The 2017 Sonic sedan will be offered in LS, LT and Premier trims. The hatchback is available only as an RS model. A sporty RS package is optional on the sedan and includes piano black interior trim, a flat-bottom steering wheel and new seating in red cloth.

New 15-, 16- and 17-inch wheel designs round out the offerings. Four new exterior colors include Orange Burst Metallic, Brimstone, Cajun Red Tintcoat and Arctic Blue Metallic, which will be available later in the model year.

Other upgrades for the new model year include a new MyLink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

New options include a power driver's seat and heated cloth seats with a heated steering wheel.

The 2017 Sonic is equipped with a carryover powertrain. The standard Ecotec 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 138 horsepower.

Edmunds says: Chevrolet says it was aiming for a more expressive, sporty take on the Sonic, something that should appeal to lots of entry-level buyers.