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2015 Chevrolet Sonic review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Chevrolet Sonic highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Great handling
  • Available turbocharged engine
  • Spacious interior

Cons

  • Standard manual transmission
  • Limited cargo space
  • Few standard features

Mileage (EPA estimate)

25 city, 33 highway, 28 combined

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Sedan or hatchback with many options

The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is a city-ready car that’s full of options. One of the first choices you’ll make is whether to choose the four-door sedan or the hatchback body style. Both are available with a four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged four-cylinder that gives the engine a bit of extra oomph. Four trims range from a basic entry level trim with manual transmission and manual windows to a sports-tuned trim with an upgraded suspension and styling. Available features including lane-departure warning and a sunroof add to the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic’s appeal.

All Chevrolet Sonic years

What is new for the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic?

  • Enhanced fuel efficiency with new engine technology
  • Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen and improved connectivity features
  • Introduction of advanced safety features including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
  • New trim levels offering additional customization options
  • Removal of manual transmission option, focusing exclusively on automatic transmissions

Chevrolet Sonic photos

5 reasons to buy the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic

1. Turbocharged engine 

The 2015 Chevy Sonic comes standard with a 138-hp 1.8L four-cylinder engine that’s well suited to city driving. For a bit more acceleration on the highway, choose the 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that comes standard on the LTZ and RS trims. It also produces 138 hp but adds torque to make the engine feel more powerful. 

2. Spacious interior 

The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is compact, but you won’t feel cramped while you’re driving it. The Sonic has nearly 42 inches of legroom in front, and a standard height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilting and telescoping steering wheel help you fine-tune the space. The back seat can fit kids, with its 34.6 inches of legroom.  

3. City sized 

Despite feeling spacious inside, the 2015 Chevy Sonic is built for fitting into small spaces. The hatchback version is about 13 feet long, bumper to bumper, while the sedan is about 14 feet long. The car’s small size makes it nimble enough to cut through alleyways or snag prime city parking.  

4. Sporty trim 

If you’re a Formula 1 fan, choose a 2015 Chevy Sonic in the RS trim. This sports-tuned trim comes standard with the turbocharged engine, paired with a sports-tuned suspension. Standard manual transmission gives a hands-on driving experience, while a sports steering wheel and interior and exterior styling tweaks give the RS a race-ready feel. 

5. Upscale options 

Enjoy luxury touches with a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic in the available LTZ or RS trims. These come standard with the turbocharged engine, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, and a seven-inch touchscreen. Emergency braking and lane-departure warnings are available on all but the base trim.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.5 out of 5

60 customer reviews
The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is praised for its excellent fuel economy, responsive handling, and affordability. Customers highlight reliability and affordability in maintenance, though some noted cabin noise and limited backseat space. Basic tech features and comfort are adequate for daily commutes, but long-distance comfort is mixed.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Chevrolet Sonic an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Chevrolet Sonic 23rd out of 27 among Subcompact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Chevrolet Sonic

Chevrolet Sonic features and specs

Curious how Chevrolet Sonic trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

RS 4D Hatchback 2WD

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Optional Features

  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.4L

Horsepower

138

Torque (ft-lbs)

148

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

12.2

Wheelbase

99.4"

Overall length

159"

Width

68.3"

Height

59.3"

Leg room

F 41.8"/R 34.6"

Head room

F 38.7"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P205/50R17

Rear tires

P205/50R17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2015 Chevrolet Sonic FAQ

Chevrolet Sonic articles

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