3rd Place: Chevrolet Sonic, by Steven Bochenek
    2013 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ. Click image to enlarge |
It’s refreshingly humbling to be wrong normally, and I vow never to opine out loud during future comparisons (I too was shocked by the Rio’s result). However, I did call for the Sonic LTZ to place or show, having driven all of these in the past. Out of 27 categories – plus the price factor – it scored first in one, tied for first in three others, and placed last in five – plus the price factor.
That left it in the Goldilocks territory nearly all the other times. But first let’s talk about the highs and lows.
This model features that peppy 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec four-cylinder engine. The six-speed automatic transmission’s gear ratios are generously spaced in first and second (though, to be fair, not dissimilar to all the others) for decent launching. In sixth it purred along easily at highway speeds without heavy revving. Braking feel and throttle were also well measured and inspired further confidence.
Consequently, the Sonic’s drivetrain was the favourite among drivers on the day and in the final tallying. Its EnerGuide city fuel economy is estimated at 7.7 L/100 km; its observed fuel economy on the day was a more realistic 8.1, coming quite close to our leaders in that measure.
Sadly, with that efficient engine, the Sonic scored worst for Handling and Maneuverability. Then, not surprisingly, the Sonic placed last in Fun to Drive. Fun, for some writers, is hard to have without a stick shift and sporty balanced steering. The steering felt loose and slightly disconnected – it came in last there, too.
Another first for the Sonic was a tie with the Rio for ease of child seat installation, which garners a huge ‘so what’ from everyone who’s never had to secure a struggling snow-suited toddler in the back seat of a subcompact during a winter gale. For many, it’s the first time in adulthood when we utter that famous middle-age-in-waiting whine, “Oh, my aching back!”
But in a category where no car broke the $25,000 barrier the Sonic LTZ cost $3,030 more than its closest rival. Ouch, that price factor. Still, no wonder it placed second for features and amenities, and with best stereo and interface of the bunch thanks to six speakers and Chevy MyLink.
While well behind the Kia Rio for Exterior Styling, the Sonic still placed significantly ahead of the others. The Rio is positively charming, but the Sonic has a touch of uniqueness with its simple, honest (and practical) shape, exposed headlight and taillight clusters and alloy wheels.
Other seconds included Ease of Entry Front, Cargo Space, Rear Seat Comfort for Two People, Ride Comfort, and Ease of Entry Rear (‘ba-DUHM-tssh’).
Hence the Sonic’s third place overall in a very competitive segment.
    2013 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ. Click image to enlarge |
Pricing: 2013 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ 5-Door Automatic
Base Price (LTZ 5-Door Automatic): $22,645
Options: Chevrolet MyLink – $265; Inferno Orange Metallic $195
Freight & PDI: $1,500
A/C Tax: $100
Total: $24,705
Energuide estimated fuel consumption: 7.7/5.5 L/100 km
Observed fuel consumption: 8.1 L/100 km
