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Chevy Sonic Turbo Now Available with Six-Speed Automatic

"Providing the option of a turbocharged engine to our non-stick driving Chevy customers allows us to offer everyone the thrill and power of a fuel-efficient Ecotec 1.4L powerplant," said Jim Danahy, vehicle line director and vehicle chief engineer for North American small cars. "Both in the Sonic and Cruze, the engine enables better fuel economy without sacrificing power or performance. It's really a winning combination."

Sonic's Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission achieved a 0-to-100kph time of 7.8 seconds, according to independent AMCI testing – faster than the comparable 2012 Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Hyundai Accent. The Sonic with the turbo-automatic combination went from 0 to 100 in about eight seconds.

"Traditionally, turbocharging was used to enhance the performance of engines, but today it is as much about fuel economy as a 0-to-100 time," said Bob Benedict, assistant chief engineer for the Ecotec 1.4L engine. "The turbocharger provides high-pressure airflow for high torque to boost the vehicle and give the driver a fun driving experience with improved fuel efficiency."

The 2012 Chevy Sonic Ecotec 1.4L turbo six-speed automatic delivers an EPA-estimated 6.4L/100km highway and 8.7L/100km in the city, while the manual gets 5.9L/100km on the highway and 8.1 in the city.

 

 South African Release date not confirmed.