What are the different versions of the Chevy Sonic?
The Chevy Sonic was offered in sedan and hatchback body styles, with three main trims (LS, LT, LTZ) and a sporty RS package on some hatchbacks, powered by either a 1.8-liter engine or a 1.4-liter turbo, and paired with multiple transmission options.
Beyond the basics, the Sonic’s lineup varied by year and region. This article breaks down the different versions you could find—from body styles to trims, engines, and transmissions—and notes the model years during which the Sonic was widely available in the United States.
Body styles and generations
Chevrolet offered the Sonic in two body configurations, with one primary generation that received mid‑cycle updates rather than a complete redesign.
Two body styles were offered:
- Sedan (four-door)
- Hatchback (five-door), the version most often paired with the sportier RS appearance package
In summary, buyers could choose between a practical sedan or the more versatile hatchback, with various trims and engines available over the model years.
Trims and features
The Sonic lineup centered on three main trims, with a sport-oriented package available on hatchback models in certain years.
Key trims and packages included:
- LS: base equipment, essential comfort and safety features
- LT: adds more convenience and tech options
- LTZ: top-level trim with upgraded interior and features
- RS (hatchback only): sport-oriented appearance package with distinctive styling and wheels
These trims covered a range of features from standard audio and connectivity to upgraded interiors and external styling cues, depending on year and market.
Engines and transmissions
The Sonic offered two engine choices and several transmission options, with availability tied to year and trim.
Engines available during the Sonic’s production included:
- 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-4
- 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4
Transmissions ranged from manual to automatic, with options that varied by model year and trim level:
- 5-speed manual (common with the 1.8L in base trims)
- 6-speed manual (often paired with the 1.4L turbo)
- 6-speed automatic (available with both engines on several trims)
In short, buyers could select from a straightforward lineup of engines and multiple shift options to fit their preferences for efficiency, performance, and convenience.
Production span and market availability
The Sonic was introduced for the 2012 model year and was sold in the United States through the 2019 model year, reflecting GM’s shift away from micro-/subcompact cars in the U.S. market. It remained available in some other regions for additional years, but the U.S. market saw no new Sonic arrivals after 2019.
Understanding how the Sonic versions mapped to years and regions helps buyers interpret used-car listings and dealership inventory, where trim names, engine options, and body style may vary by year and market.
Summary
The Chevy Sonic’s version lineup consisted of two body styles (sedan and hatchback), three primary trims (LS, LT, LTZ) plus a hatchback RS appearance package, two engine options (1.8L and 1.4L turbo), and multiple transmission choices (5- or 6-speed manual, and 6-speed automatic). Production in the U.S. spanned 2012–2019, with some regional variations extending beyond that window. If you’re shopping for a Sonic today, expect to encounter combinations of these elements based on year and market.
