2020 Chevrolet Sonic Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 2020 Chevy Sonic offers a blend of practicality and fun. Its turbocharged engine provides decent performance for city driving, appealing to those seeking a bit of pep. It boasts reasonable fuel efficiency, attracting budget-conscious buyers. Its compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver, offering a practical solution for urban environments. While not luxurious, it provides adequate comfort for daily commutes.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic include its relatively basic interior compared to some rivals. The rear seat space can be cramped for taller passengers. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system. It's wise to check for any signs of excessive oil consumption, a potential concern with the turbocharged engine. Overall, the Sonic's weak points were in interior refinement and long-term reliability compared to Japanese rivals.

2020 Chevrolet Sonic: Quick Overview

• Engine Options: 1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4
• Horsepower: 138 hp @ 4900 rpm
• Torque: 148 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm
• Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
  • City: 26 mpg
  • Highway: 34 mpg
  • Combined: 29 mpg
• 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 7.8 - 8.5 seconds (depending on transmission and testing conditions)
• Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
• Trim Level Features:
  • LS: Base model. Features included: 15-inch steel wheels, manual mirrors, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and 4-speaker audio system.
  • LT: Adds features like: 15-inch alloy wheels, heated power mirrors, cruise control, remote start (on automatic transmission models), premium cloth upholstery, and a 6-speaker audio system.
  • Premier: Top-of-the-line trim. Includes: 17-inch alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless open and start, and forward collision alert.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic Have?

While the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic generally had decent reliability ratings, some owners have reported certain issues. One common concern with the 1.4L turbocharged engine is potential for excessive oil consumption. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. Some owners have also reported issues with the infotainment system, including glitches, freezing, and connectivity problems. Transmission issues, though less frequent, have also been reported.
Recalls have been issued for earlier model years of the Sonic related to issues like brake lights, ignition switch problems (similar to other GM vehicles), and fuel tank issues, but fewer recalls affected the 2020 model specifically.
Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the longevity of the turbocharged engine, potential for turbocharger failure, and the overall durability of some of the interior components. Regular maintenance, including frequent oil changes and inspections, can help mitigate some of these risks. Before purchasing a used 2020 Sonic, it's wise to check its maintenance history and have a mechanic inspect it for any potential problems.

How long will the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic last?

With proper maintenance, a 2020 Chevrolet Sonic can potentially last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-13 years. Achieving this longevity heavily depends on consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes, timely repairs, and careful driving habits.
Long-term durability weaknesses often revolve around the turbocharged engine, which may require more frequent maintenance than a naturally aspirated engine. Suspension components, like struts and shocks, may also need replacement over time. The interior plastics can also show wear and tear with extended use.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic offers a reasonable array of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its class. Standard tech includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims like the LT and Premier offer features like remote start, cruise control, and a 6-speaker audio system.
Driver-assistance features are relatively basic. Available features (primarily on the Premier trim) include forward collision alert, which warns the driver of a potential frontal impact. However, advanced features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring were not available.
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for a comprehensive evaluation of the Sonic's safety performance. Historically, the Sonic has performed reasonably well in crash tests, but it's important to review the specific ratings for the 2020 model year.

What Colors Options are Available?

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic had a starting MSRP around $17,000 for the base LS trim and topped out around $21,000 for the Premier trim. As a discontinued model, used market prices have depreciated significantly. Expect to find used 2020 Sonics ranging from approximately $8,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, accident history, and trim level. Lower mileage, a clean title, and higher trims (like the Premier) will command higher prices. The Sonic's discontinuation also impacts resale, as some buyers might be hesitant due to concerns about parts availability in the long term.

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Cost of Ownership

The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic is generally considered an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically lower than average due to its small size and safety features. Fuel costs are reasonable, with EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of around 29 mpg. Routine maintenance costs are also relatively low. However, potential repairs related to the turbocharged engine or transmission could increase long-term ownership costs. Overall, the Sonic offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking affordable transportation.

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Fuel Efficiency

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Safety Rating

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Insurance

How Does the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?

The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic competed in the subcompact car segment against rivals like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, and Kia Rio.
Performance: The Sonic's turbocharged engine offered decent performance compared to the base engines in some rivals, but the Fit was generally considered more fun to drive due to its responsive handling.
Features: The Sonic's tech features were comparable to its rivals, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some competitors offered more advanced driver-assistance features.
Reliability: This is where the Sonic falls behind. The Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris consistently ranked higher in reliability ratings.
Price: The Sonic was generally competitively priced, but the Nissan Versa often offered a lower entry price.
Alternatives: The Honda Fit is a strong alternative due to its exceptional versatility, reliability, and fun-to-drive nature. The Toyota Yaris (or Mazda 2, which it's based on) is another excellent choice for its reliability and fuel efficiency. If price is the primary concern, the Nissan Versa is worth considering, but be mindful of its lower reliability scores compared to Honda and Toyota.

Ranks #880 Sedan

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic a Good Passenger Sedan?

The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic is a decent option for budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable and efficient transportation, particularly for city driving. It's ideal for first-time car buyers, students, or anyone needing a small, easy-to-park vehicle.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition of the used vehicle. It's recommended to prioritize well-maintained examples with lower mileage and a clean vehicle history report. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly advisable, focusing on potential engine and transmission issues. While it's a discontinued model, if you find a good deal on a well-maintained Sonic, it can provide reliable service for several years, but understand that long-term reliability may not be as strong as some Japanese competitors.

2020 Chevrolet Sonic Owner Reviews

Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.