2018 Chevy Sonic Reliability & Customer Satisfaction
In addition to its attractive looks, the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic offers available advanced safety features, an available turbocharged engine, and innovative technology. With the choice of a hatchback or sedan, this vehicle is still the king among subcompacts. While competitors, including Honda Fit, Ford Focus, Toyota Yaris iA, and Nissan Versa offer various strengths for diverse tastes, the Sonic still remains a good all-rounder against all of them; regardless of which trim you choose - the LS or LT configuration.
2018 Sonic Part & System Ratings
Air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, power locks, and keyless entry are standard amenities. Moreover, the LS trim special exterior appointments and heated side mirrors while LTZ trims include perforated leatherette seating surfaces, fog lamps, and 17-inch wheels. Unlike its peers in this spartan class, the 2018 Sonic feels more planted on the road, offers a reasonably quiet ride, and is also an impressive performer, offering comfort over bumpy roads and poise in corners.
Braking performance is excellent, and handling is responsive and secure. Repairs are usually less severe than average, and the frequency of breakdowns is average, which means that major repairs are not common for the 2018 Chevy Sonic. So, are Chevy Sonics reliable? Yes! The car has an excellent reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D Power.
2018 Sonic Reliability Ratings
Ever since the small front-wheel-drive car was launched in 2012, its powertrains have remained basically unchanged. The base engine is a 1.8-liter inline-4, rated at 138 hp. Conversely, the optional turbocharged 1.4 liter 4-cylinder is a great addition guaranteed to make the Sonic faster and more fuel-efficient. And while the optional engine is also rated at 138 horsepower, its 148 lb-ft of torque is more substantial when compared to the anemic 125 lb-ft from the base 1.8-liter. You can get an optional 6-speed automatic transmission, but the base engine typically comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox. There’s room for upgrading to a 6-speed manual for those who opt for the turbo-4.
2018 Sonic Overall Owner Satisfaction
Behind the wheel, the leader of subcompacts remains fun to drive. As competitors deal with a busy and coarse ride, the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic boasts a smooth and well-controlled ride thanks to its sturdy and solid nature. More credit goes to its responsive electric power steering with good weighting and feel, a concept that hasn’t been mastered by some over-sea competitors. The sonic feels almost grown-up and as composed and strong as any larger compact vehicle. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? The car benefits from an extremely stiff steel chassis, with a torsion-beam axle in the rear and MacPherson struts up front. Traction control and stability control are standard but can be switched off.
Test Drive the New Sonic in Phoenix Now
Schedule a test drive today at your Valley Chevrolet dealership to learn more about the Chevy Sonic’s reliability, features, and options.
