(September 15, 2011) DETROIT — The 2012 sub-compact Chevrolet Sonic with the Ecotec 4-cylinder 1.4-liter turbo has been rated by the EPA at 40 mpg on the highway with a six-speed manual transmission, and 29 mpg in city driving.

The Sonic's highway fuel economy makes it one of the most fuel-efficient small cars in the market, on par with the 2012 Ford Fiesta SFE and the 2012 Hyundai Accent. Along with getting 40 mpg, the 1.4L turbo Sonic can reach 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, according to General Motors.



"Sonic changes the sub-compact stereotype and puts an end to the term 'econobox,'" said Joaquin Nuno-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 Sonic is the only sub-compact car currently built in America.  Production began earlier this summer at General Motors Orion Assembly facility in Lake Orion, Mich.

The Sonic's 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine is SAE certified at 138 horsepower, 18 horsepower more than Ford Fiesta, and is essentially the same engine used in the Chevrolet Cruze in a smaller, lighter package designed for a greater feeling of performance. 

The turbo engine is also rated at 148 ft.-lbs. of torque between 2,500 and 4,900 rpm. The wide rpm range for the maximum torque — a specific trait of turbocharged engines — helps the engine deliver a better driving experience and performance.

The Sonic's base naturally aspired 1.8-liter engine — 135 horsepower — is rated at  26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway with manual transmission. The automatic gets 25 mpg city and 35 mpg 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 Nuno-Whelan. "Combine these driving characteristics with the 40-mpg fuel economy rating and we think we have a winning combination for Sonic drivers."

The suggested retail price of the Sonic begins at $14,495 including destination.