2019 Chevy Sonic Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Engine makes good power
- Spacious cabin for the class
- Standard infotainment system supports full smartphone integration
- Excellent crash test scores
Cons
- Cabin materials look and feel low-rent
- Competitors get better fuel economy
What's new
- The base 1.8-liter engine has been discontinued
- All 2019 Sonics now have the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine as standard
- Part of the first Sonic generation introduced for 2012
Subcompacts aren't a particularly exciting class. They prioritize form over function, and they need to pack a lot of capability for the size. Pound for pound, this class of vehicle simply has to do more than most. Does the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic deliver the goods?
Utility is part of the Sonic game plan. The sedan version features a big 14.9-cubic-foot trunk, while the hatchback features 19 cubic feet behind its folding rear seats. Both figures are more than what you typically get from this class of car. Up front, the Sonic comes standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, as well as a 4G LTE data connection and Wi-Fi hotspot. Again, these are features that aren't always standard on other subcompacts.
We also like the Sonic's turbocharged engine, which is standard this year. It makes a respectable 138 horsepower and a gutsy 148 pound-feet of torque. This torque makes the Sonic responsive and increases the fun-factor. Uniquely, all trims of the Sonic are available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
So, is the ideal Sonic the ideal subcompact? It's close, but you'll compromise on interior refinement. Most of the materials look and feel cheap, and the Sonic's base trim comes with manual windows and minimal active safety features. If you want a car that has a nicer interior, take a look at the Kia Rio. The versatile Honda Fit is another one of our favorites. Still, the 2019 Sonic is a solid offering and definitely worth considering if you're shopping for an affordable sedan or hatchback.
Driving
The Sonic is a spirited little car with good steering and handling, especially with the sport-tuned suspension. Unfortunately, the manual gearbox is a bit clunky, and the 1.4-liter turbo lacks responsiveness at low rpm.
Comfort
The comfortable front seats are a highlight, with decent bolstering for spirited driving and a comfortable driver-seat armrest. Unfortunately, there's lots of tire noise over rough surfaces, and the sport suspension delivers a ride that borders on harsh.
Interior
There's plenty of head- and legroom both up front and in the back, though elbow room is tight all around. The large door openings make it easy to get in and out. Unfortunately, cheap plastics abound and thick roof pillars reduce visibility.
Utility
The sedan's trunk is bigger than average for a subcompact, and the hatchback similarly offers a generous amount of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Up front, there are many storage spaces for your small items.
Technology
The standard 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is a great feature for this class, and we like the interface. Forward collision warning and lane departure warning are optional for the LT and the Premier.
Which Sonic does Edmunds recommend?
For the most bang-for-your-buck, we recommend the LT trim. While the base LS is decently equipped, the midrange LT gets you just a few more extras that you'll likely find appealing, such as heated mirrors and nicer wheels. Getting the optional Driver Confidence package is an inexpensive way to get the useful forward collision warning system.
2019 Chevrolet Sonic models
The 2019 Chevrolet Sonic's trim levels actually have a few surprises, though on the surface they seem straightforward enough. There are three trim levels: the no-frills sedan-only base LS, the LT with its functional standard features, and the fully loaded Premier. The LT and the Premier are available in sedan and hatchback body styles. All Sonics are powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine (138 horsepower, 148 pound-feet of torque) that drives the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.