What kind of transmission does a 2016 Chevy Sonic have?
The 2016 Chevy Sonic offers two main transmissions: a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
In 2016, the Sonic was offered with two engine options—the 1.8-liter inline-four and a turbocharged 1.4-liter—and each could be paired with one of the available transmissions. There is no CVT offered on the Sonic.
Transmission options
Details of transmission options by engine and trim are summarized here.
- Five-speed manual transmission (standard on certain trims with the 1.8L engine).
- Six-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 6T40), available with both the 1.8L and the 1.4L turbo engines on most trims.
No CVT is offered in the Sonic. Typically, base trims with the 1.8L engine lean toward the manual, while higher trims and the turbo model more commonly feature the six-speed automatic.
What this means for drivers
For buyers, the choice of transmission often aligns with trim level and desired driving dynamics. The manual can appeal to those who prefer greater control and lower upfront cost, while the automatic is favored for convenience in city driving and longer trips.
Summary
The 2016 Chevy Sonic provides two transmission options: a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6T40). The manual is typically associated with the base 1.8L engine, while the six-speed automatic is available for both the 1.8L and the turbocharged 1.4L, with no CVT offered in the lineup.
