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2017 Chevrolet Sonic review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Chevrolet Sonic highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Great handling
  • Spacious interior
  • Many standard features

Cons

  • Lackluster base engine
  • Standard manual transmission

Mileage (EPA estimate)

24 city, 33 highway, 28 combined

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Compact with lots of features

Whether you’re looking for a small car for city grocery runs or a daily driver for your commute, the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic fits the bill. The car is available in two body styles: a hatchback or a four-door sedan. Both offer a solid amount of cargo space for the class. The Chevy Sonic is spacious inside too, with nearly 42 inches of legroom in the front seats. Standard smart-phone connectivity and available driver assist features make the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic feel modern. Options like leatherette upholstery and a sunroof add to the appeal of the 2017 Chevy Sonic.

All Chevrolet Sonic years

What is new for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?

  • Trim Added: Sport Edition for enhanced performance features.
  • Trim Discontinued: Base model no longer available, shifting focus to higher trims.
  • Standard Equipment on all: Advanced safety suite now included across all models.
  • New Equipment: Updated infotainment system with improved connectivity options.

Chevrolet Sonic photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic

1. Lots of cargo space 

Whether you’re bringing your instruments to band practice or hauling around a baby stroller to the park, the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic has enough space. The sedan comes with 14.9 cu.-ft. of trunk space. If you need a bit more room, choose the hatchback, which offers 19 cu.-ft. of cargo space.  

2. Smartphone connections 

Keeping up with your podcasts or playlists is easy on the 2017 Chevy Sonic, thanks to standard smartphone connectivity. Apple Carplay®, Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® integration come standard on every 2017 Sonic. A seven-inch touchscreen is standard too.  

3. Turbocharged engine 

The 2017 Chevy Sonic comes standard with a 138-hp 1.8L four-cylinder engine that is great for city driving. But for more power, choose the available 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It also produces 138 hp, but gives the Sonic more torque, so it feels more responsive.   

4. Passenger space 

Even if you’re tall, you’ll have enough space in the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic. The car has nearly 42 inches of legroom in front. A standard tilting and telescoping steering wheel and height-adjustable front seat make it easy to find a good driving position.  

5. Available options 

With three trims and lots of packages and stand-alone options, it’s easy to find a 2017 Chevy Sonic that’s right for you. For a sporty feel, choose the sports-focused RS package. Or, add lane-departure warning and emergency braking with the available Driver Confidence package.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.4 out of 5

7 customer reviews
The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic offers good fuel economy, comfortable ride and handling, and reasonable cargo space for a compact car. Some downsides include significant cabin noise, average tech features, and varied fuel efficiency results. It’s a practical choice for basic transportation, but buyers should consider trim and engine options for added comfort and performance.

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

Premier 4D Hatchback 2WD

Standard Features

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

Optional Features

  • Sunroof(s)
  • Parking Sensors
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Automatic Transmission

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

159.8"

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

2017 Chevrolet Sonic FAQ

Chevrolet Sonic articles

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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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