How much horsepower does a 1.8 Sonic have?
The 1.8-liter Chevrolet Sonic engine typically produces about 138 horsepower.
The Sonic line used a 1.8L inline-four Ecotec engine in several model years, delivering 138 hp at roughly 6,800 rpm and about 125 lb-ft of torque at around 4,800 rpm. This figure applies to the non-turbo version commonly paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. There was also a 1.4L turbo option in some trims and markets that offered similar peak horsepower but greater torque, so numbers can vary by year and country.
Engine specs and performance
Here are the core specifications for the 1.8L engine as deployed in the Sonic's base lineup.
- Displacement: 1.8 L (1796 cc)
- Configuration: Inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Horsepower: 138 hp (103 kW) at 6,800 rpm
- Torque: 125 lb-ft (170 Nm) at 4,800 rpm
- Redline: approximately 6,800 rpm
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
These figures are typical for the U.S.-market Sonic with the 1.8L engine; variations can occur by year and market due to tuning and emissions standards.
Context on related engines
In the Sonic lineup, a 1.4L turbo option was available in some trims and markets. That engine generally offers similar peak horsepower but higher torque, providing a different acceleration feel even with comparable horsepower.
Comparisons with other Sonic engines
To illustrate how the 1.8L compares within the Sonic family, consider these points.
- 1.4L turbo: typically around 138 hp with about 148 lb-ft of torque, depending on market; more torque than the 1.8L, which affects off-the-line response.
- Market and year variations: some regions used slightly different tuning that could alter horsepower by a few units.
- Real-world performance: horsepower is only part of the story; torque and gearing significantly influence daily acceleration.
In practice, buyers and drivers may notice that the turbo’s higher torque can improve responsiveness, while the 1.8L engine remains a solid, reliable baseline power option.
Notes and caveats
Exact horsepower can vary by model year, market, and emission tuning. If you need VIN-specific numbers, consult the official Chevrolet documentation or a dealer with your vehicle’s VIN on file.
VIN verification
Use the VIN to pull the precise engine specification from GM’s service databases or the vehicle’s original window sticker for exact horsepower and torque figures.
Summary
The Chevrolet Sonic’s 1.8L engine commonly produces about 138 horsepower, with torque around 125 lb-ft. While this is the typical figure for U.S.-market Sonics, exact numbers can vary by year, market, and configuration. The Sonic lineup also offered a 1.4L turbo that delivers similar horsepower but higher torque, giving buyers a choice in performance characteristics.
