While it uses same 138-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter four found in humbler Sonics, the RS sets itself apart with a stiffened and lowered suspension, rear disc brakes (other Sonics get rear drum brakes) and more closely-spaced manual transmission gear ratios. Sonics outfitted with the $1,285 six-speed automatic benefit from a shorter final-drive ratio.
Standard kit includes Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, which offers voice control of certain entertainment functions and includes Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and streaming audio via Pandora radio and Stitcher SmartRadio. MyLink comes with a color touchscreen and can be outfitted with navigation.
Production of the Sonic RS will begin in October at General Motors' Orion, Michigan, assembly center.
