Where is the Chevy Sonic built?
The Chevy Sonic was built primarily at General Motors’ Orion Assembly Plant in Orion Township, Michigan, for North American sales. In other markets, different GM facilities handled production, and the model’s manufacturing wound down in the late 2010s.
North American production
The Sonic’s main production run for the United States and Canada took place at GM’s Orion Assembly Plant, located about 30 miles north of Detroit. The plant produced the Sonic hatchback and sedan on the Gamma II platform from its introduction in 2011 through the model year when production in North America ended. This location was chosen to consolidate GM’s small-car manufacturing under one roof for efficiency and supply chain reasons.
Orion Assembly Plant details
Orion Assembly sits in Oakland County, Michigan, and has a history of building compact and mid-size GM vehicles. During the Sonic’s run, the plant’s lines were configured to handle both hatchback and sedan variants, reflecting GM’s approach to offer multiple body styles from a single platform in a single facility.
Global production footprint
Beyond North America, GM historically manufactured Sonic-related models for various markets through its international manufacturing network. Production assignments in other regions varied over time as GM reorganized its global operations, and some markets used different branding or regional variants based on the same Gamma II platform.
Current status
GM phased out Sonic production in North America after the late 2010s, with the model no longer produced for U.S. or Canadian customers. In other markets, the Sonic nameplate has seen limited activity as GM shifted its lineup toward SUVs and crossovers, but there are no ongoing American-made Sonic production runs today.
Summary
In short, the Chevrolet Sonic was built most prominently at GM’s Orion Assembly Plant in Michigan for North America, with international production handled by GM’s global network for other markets. The model has since been discontinued in the U.S., marking the end of its production there.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Sonic?
Engine Problems
The engine is the heart of your Chevrolet Sonic. If your car is having trouble starting, idling roughly, or stalling, the engine may be the culprit. Many engine-related problems stem from simple issues that can be checked without a mechanic's help. A rough idle is one of the most common engine issues.
Where is Chevy Sonic manufactured?
The Sonic is manufactured at General Motors' Orion Township, MI, plant, which received a $545 million upgrade and new tooling before production began on the car. The subcompact comes in sedan and hatchback versions, with three trim levels.
Who builds the Chevrolet Sonic?
Last 2020 Chevy Sonic sedan unit built at GM Lake Orion plant. "The Sonic, debuting in 2026, introduces a new car concept and revives a global Chevrolet name, reflecting the brand's plans to offer models with a consistent identity in different markets," said GM South America.
Why was Chevy Sonic discontinued?
The Chevy Sonic was discontinued primarily due to declining demand for subcompact cars, a market trend that shifted toward more popular SUVs and crossovers. This was compounded by a significant drop in Sonic sales from its peak in 2014 to the low thousands in later years. Production ended after the 2020 model year to make way for the production of the electric Chevrolet Bolt EUV at the same plant.
Key reasons for discontinuation
- Declining consumer demand: The overall market for small sedans and hatchbacks was shrinking as buyers increasingly preferred SUVs and crossovers for their ride height, cargo space, and available all-wheel-drive options.
- Plummeting sales figures: After peaking at nearly 94,000 units in 2014, Sonic sales fell by more than 80% to less than 14,000 in the years leading up to its discontinuation.
- Shifting company strategy: General Motors (GM) decided to cease production of the Sonic to repurpose its Orion Assembly plant in Michigan to focus on the production of its all-electric vehicles.
- Production of the Bolt EUV: The plant was retooled to produce the new Chevrolet Bolt EUV, a larger version of the Bolt EV, which was a part of GM's larger strategic push toward electric vehicles.
