Chevy Sonic honest review after 2000 mile road trip

This is a video during a 2000 mile road trip in a rental Chevy Sonic

[@bhinderbinder]

This review was very helpful. Seems like this would be a good car for someone who lives in the city and just needs to get around economically.

[@clay-r15]

30mpg at 80mph is actually really good. The epa estimates are at 55mph

[@axiumaudio]

I rented a Ford Fusion Hybrid in California, did 80 or so with traffic and used 8.8 gallons of fuel in 450 miles. which is 51 miles per gallon in a large car that was loaded.

[@jimbrown341]

Ok, but you do realize you drove a HYBRID car and the Chevy Sonic is not a Hybrid. Your 51 miles per gallon driving at 80mph sounds completely incorrect though. Everyone and their grandmother knows that the faster you drive (over 55 MPH) the less fuel economy you get. Check this link to see Consumer Report's study on MPG based on MPH: cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/090914-even-hybrids-get-a-lot-less-fuel-efficient-at-highway-speeds

[@M3rover]

I get 40 on my 2015 sonic hatchback hwy 70-75 mph

[@zedfourme5085]

Hey old man Clay the EPA test hasn't been done with 55 as the top interstate speed in 20 years.

[@dillonh321]

Highway Epa estimates are actually based on a run that is 10 miles and varies in speed that peaks at 60mph with average speeds of 48mph. And then another run that peaks at 80mph that averages 48mph.

[@johndoe9678]

We have a ‘15 LT Hatchback with the 1.8L. I’m a Ford guy also, I’ve had 9 Fords. Must say, for the money, this Sonic is a pretty darn good car. We’re at 83,000 miles and have had not one issue. - just routine maintenance.

[@j.daviddelano7951]

John Doe You know it. It's not a show car it's a basic cheap but pretty reliable car. Gets you where you want to go and back. Not a bad ride but it does save a lot of cash to own one.

[@roberthein2156]

Wait,T 100,000.you'll see, ERG need replacing, it sealed in the whole valve cover, $150., then 1.4 ,2heat sensors ,replace both $30-40 each. Or trade in at 99,000. These can be done by yourself.

[@topfuel6824]

I have a2015 L T Z with close to 200k mi my only complaint is continuously giving a guy I know with a ford rides to autozone

[@jeffc1347]

My wife and I both have 2014 1.8 automatics, my wifes has been very reliable, mine not as much. She's gotten one engine light I don't remember what it was but it wasn't anything major (dealer tried to rip us off for like $400 but a friend fixed it for $20). Mine has had two purge valve replacements, thermostat, sway bar & bushings, and a few weeks ago it had a vaccum leak. Car only has 75,000 miles and I take extremely good care of both of them.

[@carlgoogle2869]

@@topfuel6824 lol. I'm trading in my 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis for one of these. It has $106,000 mi and has nothing but headaches. Electrical problems and transmission problems. The panther platform is junk and the only reason why cops and cabbies drove them is because they have fleet mechanics

[@JDeHart]

I have a sonic. I get more than 10gallons in the tank. Gas mileage is good....38mpg. I like my car. Yes there are things I would want to change but I love my car. Its a smaller car, there's enough room for me and 4 other people. No complaints really. The only complaint is shift button sticking that's it. Besides that I think this is a good car. I'm sure we all know that we pay for what we get....its a pretty cheap car. If you wanted more of a luxury car then definitely get something else chevy isn't for you.

[@j.daviddelano7951]

Jessica DeHart I agree with you on all points. It's a great economical car that doesn't break the bank.

[@pturcanu]

David Delano Not until it starts crapping out on you in multiple ways. Mine is 5 years old and already has had a busted main seal, blown crankcase membrane, a faulty EGR valve, and several coolant leaks. Should I even get into poor interior trim quality (silver paint is coming off throughout, plastic is cracking)? That's on a car kept in the garage and maintained regularly... Don't get me wrong, I too love my car, but I just don't know why; I really have no good reason. This was my first Chevy, and will definitely be the last.

[@MarkLagunas]

I had a 2013 Chevy Sonic and my shift button was constantly getting stuck and would lock my key in the ignition. I would lowkey be embarrassed when I’d get an oil change or having someone move my car freak out bc they’re not sure why it wasn’t releasing my key 🤣🤣 I have a 2016 turbo now and so far no complaints.

[@elizagrace3546]

My shift button sticks too, locks my key in the ignition. Have learned to "lift up" on the middle of the rubber just above the button. i keep meaning to try a little WD40.

[@vondellsanders3872]

I love my sonic to

[@rdmineer1]

This is after the refresh, so it looks just like the Cruze. Mine is a 2012 Sonic LS 1.8 5M, 102k miles and has that unique original styling. This car consistently gets 38-42 mpg, holds 12.2 gallons, registers @ 500 range. When the light came on, only once, it held almost 11. Covered the distance between Phoenix and Lexington, KY (1800) three times in 2022 then to Florida and back (1500 round) four times since, without any issues. I'm 65 and these seats are the best, saved me many a motel stay. I've had it 5 years, replaced MAF sensor, coolant hoses, serpentine and sway bar links. No alternator or water pump failure nor seeping gaskets, nothing else has needed service including AC and brakes. Cruises happy at 70-80 all day and into the night. Maintenance and respectful operation keeps it going. Timing belt gets replaced next week, but without a fear it's ready for a 4000 mile visit to Phoenix right now! If I buy something new I will still keep this.

[@0906blue]

I just bought a used 2015 sonic. It's was a one owner with 115,000 miles. I really like it. Bought it in STL and drove it to FL 1200 miles. I sold my last 4 cylinder in 1997. This car has quite the power for a 4 cylinder. Drove it over 80 most the trip. Didn't shake or rattle, doesn't run rough. No, it doesn't have the luxuries of a luxury car, also doesn't have the price of a luxury car. I usually fill up at 1/4 tank. I've owned 2 mustangs when I was young, they are terrible in snow and heavy rain. Not sure what anyone would expect for an economy car.

[@themangyanpreppers3641]

I have a 15 LTZ. Steering handles great, fuel efficient, it's roomy for a hatchback, it's got all the controls at the steering wheel, great visibility, suspension is great, I have replaced the sparkplug assembly and stabilizer. The only major challenge is the parts that's very hard to find and a little bit more costly given that I'm not in the US.

[@lliaolsen728]

- I stay between 73-77 mph I tend to get less trying to go 80. (Same with my Chevy Cobalt, It loved going 77 but not so much 80) - I average 34 mpg on 93 octane in the Auto 2015 LTZ 1.4L Hatchback but have gone as high as 38 @ 75 (±2) MPH - I could potentially top out about 390-430 miles per tank. Which coincides with my early fill ups at around 370-380 miles into the trip of 2,360 mile - I filled up 11 gallons once driving after the low warning came on. - The armrest is ridiculous. It angles way too far down unless you like to recline the chair way back. - Pillow is necessary on road-trips for lumbar support. I drove from New Mexico to Texas to Louisiana Apparently there were aerodynamic under body panels that were installed on earlier models that were removed on later models. Possibly due to a potential Fire risk.. Installing them on your own nets better mileage from what I read from those that have done the mod. My 2015 did not come with the panels and I bought it with very low miles.

[@roastkingasaurus]

Not sure what Sonic you drove. I'm 6'2'' and I cruise around in a 17 Sonic hatch comfortably. With the seat all the way back my foot will barely reach the pedal. Sonic has the roomiest in class. When Enterprise tried to rent me a fiesta I got in and the room was a lot less. Wouldnt touch it

[@mso4433]

Been driving a 2012 Sonic LTZ (bought it used) for 5 1/2 years. The around town mileage is not great, but I can live with it. It's a comfortable car considering the size. Road noise is a little loud, but acceptable. Have no real issues with the car. If you want a luxury car, spend more folks. Will buy again if they are still available in a few years.

[@USCGCoasttoast]

Just got a Sonic!!Will be picking it up on Monday.Traded my pick up truck for one.Big step down for me.But the gas was killing me.14 miles to the gal.I hope it handles well in the snow.

[@jonesingjalopies5457]

Buy snow tires !

[@roberthein2156]

When I got mine in 2012, ordered it in10-11, it came with summer Tires, check your Tires, you need all-SEASON for snow!!!!

[@tyeauga]

I rented a Sonic Premier and the thing was amazing. I'm a Toyota enthusiast but this little car knocked my socks off. If I didn't ski and surf I would buy one in a second.

[@rolandlepak5087]

I would like to say I really like your honest review, I own a 2017 sonic turbo and agree with most of it, I average 33.3 miles per gallon over 106980 miles on the car ,it has a 12 gallon fuel tank and will go 400 miles on a tank of fuel,

[@MG-cd9ek]

I just went from a chevy spark to the sonic 2018 sedan LT. wow! I love it! I show it to men I work with and most are extremely impressed with the loaded features and really a pretty car. I think a big man driving it may not like it for comfortable but I love mine. Got jet black with black grey interior and honestly I love driving it, the way it looks and how really pretty it is. Gas? I do city driving and not much, I fill it twice a week, the engine is soft and the stereo system is amazing. Big thumbs up. Trunk is huge too. Thanks for the video

[@roberthein2156]

Have my truck still, wanted a has CAR. Why? Truck=$400./month, Has car=$150./month. Need my truck, still got it. A TRUCK IS A TRUCK! THAT'S WHY.

[@roberthein2156]

GAS,HAS, STUPID AUTO-CORRECT!!!!!! DID IT AGAIN!!!!!!!!

[@donaldpatterson4494]

I have a 2017 Chevy sonic rs hatchback turbo and I love it, just drove from clayton ga. To Miami and back 4 people confy ride, spent $200 in gasoline, do agree with armrest, I have no problem with the seats, and I got 40 miles to gallon love it

[@j.daviddelano7951]

I had a 2013 Sonic LT sedan 1.8 auto brand new. It was a great little car for the money. I agree with you about the gas mileage, I only average 26.5 mpg around 310 miles per tank. It was a very good driver. You're driving a 2017 or 2018 as the dash is not a pod style. I traded it in on a 2016 brand new and got the 1.4L turbo getting 32 around town, average 36.8 combined and 42 on long trips. It is the last year of the round headlights and I hated the new 2017 being to generic to every other Chevy on the road. This Sonic is also a sedan and it's never let me down in 2 years. My 2013 had 56000 miles and was exactly 3 years when I traded it for 2016. I'm not a young guy and have loved these cars. I've even let my daughter use it when her car died and she loves it as well as my 2 granddaughters. I was always an Oldsmobile Cutlass driver and this is more reliable then Oldsmobiles. To everyone out there that has a Sonic of any year, I hope you have a great time with this little gem.

[@jamesflake6601]

It absolutely amazes me that my Geo Metro xfi is still the most economical gas only car for 28 years now

[@oldcodger4371]

Let's see, no AC one oil scraper ring per cylinder, ok. The Metro would get about 35 mpg doing 80 mph. I know because I had one for years. This dude in the Sonic is driving 80 MPH and is complaining about getting 30 mpg.

[@jamesflake6601]

@@oldcodger4371 the xfi gets over 50

[@claudiofagundes9502]

80 mph with a head wind and still getting 30 mpg that's really good

[@pioneer7777777]

I drive around mostly around 60 mph and have 40 mpg over 50k miles with the 1.4 manual transmission. It's all about how you drive!

[@roberthein2156]

Same: 1.4,6-spd.,use cruise on highway a lot, @ 70MPH.

[@magiccheeseball]

100% i have heard other ppl who get 40 with that car too

[@realtonysolo]

Have a 15 LT Hatchback 1.8L. Took a cross country road trip a couple years ago. Got an average of 42mpg and I drove 75-85mph most of the time. I have a 12 gallon tank. Frankly, after 300+ miles I was ready to get out, stretch my legs and refill the tank.

[@jacobwhite6247]

I've been really considering these. Definitely going to find one with the higher trim options. That renting idea is great! Definitely gonna do that. Thanks so much!

[@Rossco139]

You wont regret it. They are extremely comfortable, and a blast to drive. It makes me smile every time I get in.

[@komodo380]

Don't do it man. Don't make the mistake of buying a GM product dude. I owned a 2012 Sonic for 5 years, nothing but trouble. Worst car I ever owned. Sold it in August and now have a 2014 Accord V6, a million times better than that car. If the price seems a bit steep you can always go for a Civic or a Corolla, or at least go for a Ford if you insist on buying American because they have fairly good reliability. Whatever you do don't go with GM or Chrysler! Please for your own sake!

[@coollkubi]

i bought mine for $1000 2012 with 210k miles on it , no engine light, i change the factory tires gave it 205/70/15 ,,ohh my this car is a beast runs quiet and moves quicker.tnx I bought this at auction. a lot people talking about its piece of crap but i needed a piece of crap to put miles on it to and from work, but realize people ain't right ..the car needs a regular oil change to maintain great performance i guess people don't take care of their car and start blaming the manufacturer , so dude gssssh im chilling on highway going 75 on 70 ..the body and inside clean as new the only thing is the engine and im rocking it till 500miles ,,,,love it

[@sunnydelight4991]

Amazing that's what I am pushing in mines 200k plus

[@coollkubi]

Update already drove it to New York 4 times guys 4 freaking times and it's awesome... I mean awesome and I'm finally buying again if this goes bad.. One thing is never listen to folks always give it a try..

[@Lincolnator721]

@@coollkubi that seems unusual. My mom had a 2013 Chevy sonic. It needed air intake hose replaced at 54k miles and control arm bushings at 60k miles. Everything starts to break after the warranty expires. Nah no thanks lol

[@coollkubi]

@@Lincolnator721 it's looks like the car already had a problem before you bought it ,, for real mine is still running like heaven I'm going 275 miles now and trust I'm going back and forth from New York to Chicago to Canada gsssh ,all I'm tryna do is check when this car will break down buh hell now this car actually run on 32 miles a gallon on highway ...and I'm riding till 500...it's still going hard and hey the battery never die on me this winter idk buh this small car is a beast!!!! Still going ..

[@coollkubi]

@@Lincolnator721 it's looks like the car already had a problem before you bought it ,, for real mine is still running like heaven I'm going 275 miles now and trust I'm going back and forth from New York to Chicago to Canada gsssh ,all I'm tryna do is check when this car will break down buh hell now this car actually run on 32 miles a gallon on highway ...and I'm riding till 500...it's still going hard and hey the battery never die on me this winter idk buh this small car is a beast!!!! Still going ..

[@marvinr5054]

I'm watching your review while I drive from Florida to New York and back to Florida so 2200 approximate miles in my 2014 Sonic that now has 94,000 miles I average at 80 mph 38.9 miles per gallon and that 72 mph 40.6 miles per gallon and I've never been able to get more than 11 gallons of fuel in the tank and that's running it down way below the empty light. I wanted to give this to my daughter and buy another Sonic but the new ones get worse gas mileage and I'm afraid of the turbo charged smaller engines. So far the ecotec 1.8 is a dynamite motor I'd buy another one in a heartbeat if they still had this engine.

[@trier4952]

The Chevy Sonic has a 12.2 gallon tank, not a 10 gallon. I'm not sure why you're only able to put in 9.8 gallons. It could be in need of fuel cleaner to clear some of the sludge out of the tank, since it's a rental car that's been on a road for a while.

[@exJacktar]

Will be test driving one tomorrow. Thanks for the heads up.

[@williammitchem8274]

My Sonic has 12 gallon tank . When the warning lite is on .I get about 11.2 gallons in. I get about 330 miles per tank. Around town 27.6 mpg I have the 1.8 engine and I like that better than the 1.4 turbo. I drove the 1.4 turbo and thought it was sluggish. 34 to 36 mpg on long trips at 70 mph. My first California trip was 35 mpg. My spark got 52 mpg on a 1200 mile trip. That 1.2 engine was screaming at 70 .

[@tompetty5494]

This guy is a Master Mechanic and he doesn't realize he's judging miles per gallon by an 80 mile-per-hour speed

[@axiumaudio]

I did know that, and that is why I said it. What do you need help with to understand that?

[@roberthein2156]

He didn't say he was a good one. Class"A",mechanic at any dealership,is offered so much over time, they want to quit.

[@veggiepowered]

I'am Your Newest Subscriber Great Videos Thinking About A Chevy Sonic Hatchback

[@coloradoclimber4359]

I have Chevy sonic sedan 2012 model. First owner.75.000 mile.I didn’t change anything except oil,oil filter,air filter,pollen filter. I love my car. Absolutely better than Toyota.

[@alexneil9116]

I am on here for reviews. And with The lumbar thing oh no I'm not getting it now. Thank you for saving me the headache.

[@LazyScoutJace]

I have a 2013 RS Turbo model stickshift. Overall I enjoy my car, but it does have some caveats. Some notes on your criticisms: 1. Mileage. I actually get ~39 at 3,000 rpm averaging at a 70mph sweetspot. Anything above that and you can physically feel that you're fighting the air resistance and pushing the car - so the fact that you're complaining about mpg at 80mph isn't really the fault of the car, but basic aerodynamics. 2. Fuel tank capacity. I would actually somewhat agree. However, I myself live in the suburbs of Los Angeles so it's never been an issue. I actually got a trip from ~Disneyland to Las Vegas with one full tank with conservative driving as I said above. As long as you don't drive like a maniac on the gas pedal, plan ahead, and take it easy by coasting as much as possible, you shouldn't really have an issue with the fuel capacity. 3. Radio out of reach. Not sure about that. I can easily reach the radio controls and the passenger glove compartments and I'm 5'8". 4. On-Star buttons. I've never had that issue with the way I've gripped the mirror. Sounds like a personal issue. 5. AC. I've actually had alot of problems with my own AC system and it's the biggest gripe against the car ever since I've owned the vehicle. I've had sensor issues, leaks, and compressor issues to name a few. It's my understanding that the previous owner lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico and probably overused the shit out of the AC. 6. Windshield wiper washes. I actually agree. It's kinda sad how tacky the wiper nozzles spray. But meh, does the job. 7. Armrest. I have no problem with the material on it. Mine's vinyl from the RS model so I wouldn't know about the other types. The positioning of it is so odd that I would have to shift my body to use it. Therefore, it's just a pointless feature I never use. 8. Backseat cushioning is so-so. I imagine it was good when it was new, but I use it for short 30-minute commutes. It's passable on long trips, I suppose. 9. Lumbar support. The seat actually has a lumbar lever that pushes it out for support. Like the cushioning, I imagine it was great new, but now it's just whack. I don't use any kind of lumbar support, though I imagine I should. Thus, this car has been pretty alright for me as my first car just out of college. I bought it used for ~$11k and it's been overall pretty alright. It admittedly has a lot of cheap feeling parts & materials that GM clearly used to cut costs.

[@thadmachia9873]

Thank you appreciate this review and a great job of it as well!

[@mikef4301]

super handsome guy with pretty eyes. great report on the sonic too. it's really not a bad little car.

[@charlescollins2176]

I own a 2018 Sonic Lt 1.4 liter Turbo Sedan and I actually get 41.9 miles a gallon on my 6-speed stick shift. Most people wont drive a stick shift but it increases mileage for sure. Speed tops out at 135 mph.

[@roberthein2156]

Agree, most people would rather TEXT THAN SHIFT!!!!

[@marianchez]

You dont know what you are talking about: there is a button in the plastic round washer around the metallic bars, when you push them the head rest will go up and down. Next question, the car was rated 35 mpg at what speed? All brands say that after the peak of performance, it degrades rapidilly. Next, the Malibu 2016 also loads 10 gallons in tank, and if you drives in the ranges, you will have more than 450 miles before recharge the tank in the highway.

[@lisakukla459]

I have a 2012 and I agree about the headrest. I've always absolutely hated it. So uncomfortable. Then I turned them backwards and now it feels just right. I wish I'd thought to do that a couple years sooner.

[@daniellesmith1059]

70MPH is my limit. But 40MPG is doable. Always take 2.5 gallon gas can as reserve on trips. Great review, thanks.

[@ryanchristensen1799]

My 2018 chevy sonic with the 1.8L 4 cylinder gets 40.5 mpg right at 70 mph and 2500 rpm. Thats with me and my wife, some stuff in the trunk, and gas tank with only 3 gallons of gas in it. Thats the best it has ever gotten on a completely flat road and no head wind. Once I go 75-80mph it drops substantially. I would say 35-36mpg @ 75mph and 31-33 mpg @ 80 mph.

[@tylermcmullen8741]

I've gotten 40+ mpg on my regular 2013 chevy sonic lt on the highway. Went about 400 miles on a full tank of gas

[@caviaguianae5419]

Man thank you do much for this video , i been watching a lot of video reviews of cars lately (I'm moving forward to get my first brand new car) And this one,this particular review is BY FAAAAR the most honest i have seen, and i have seen almost 23 videos on youtube related to the chevy sonic . Keep doing reviews please , and if you got anything to say about what should be the best new car under 20.000$ in the market on 2018 I'll be more than happy to watch it!!! Greetings and bless

[@axiumaudio]

I would look at the Hyundai ION, it's in that price range and said to get about 70 mpg

[@jfrankcarr]

I had a 2015 Sonic LTZ I recently traded. It had 71k miles. It was a decent small car but was plagued by computer and sensor problems after about 50k miles.

[@Rex-ou3dk]

We own a 2013 Sonic hatchback LTZ - 4 cylinder 1.4(?) liter, turbo, just passed 55,000 miles and we bought it new. At 65 MPH it gets about 25 miles to the gallon - sticker says 36 MPH on the highway. Never ever came close. It will not complete a 300 mile highway trip on one tank of gas. At 55 on cruise control it loses 3-6 MPH on easy grades that our 1.6 liter 2001 Eclipse handles on cruise control without losing one mile per hour. City mileage is about 28 MPG. Cabin roof about 2" too low - I am 5'11" and have to duck and bend to get in. At one time we owned 5 Chevys - two classics - 1966 El Camino 396 & 1969 C-10 with a mouse motor. Down to one and most likely never buying another based on the Sonic and Chevy's support of the Sonic. "We do not investigate bad gas mileage. It is driver influenced." Miles per gallon cross flat Arizona and Southern California highways without wind. Not happy with the Sonic, not happy with Chevy.

[@roberthein2156]

Sounds like a AUTOMATIC! 6-SPD.IS YOUR HAS MILAGE SECRET. CHECK YOUR AIR FILTER, BUY A NEW ONE, CLEAN OUT THE BOX, BEFORE INSTALLING.

[@reneecanales7900]

Bought a 2016 a year ago. I love it! Read that Sonic styling are based on motorcycles! Hence, the small dash display, which I love. And, the snakeskin print seat fabric. One mystery, what are those compartments on each side of the center vents for? I call the tray on the dash, located just above the vents, my french fry holder!

[@mso4433]

Those compartments are for storage. Really a good place to stash a small cell phone or whatever. The more storage cubicles, the better I say, however funny they look.

[@catherinekelly6287]

The very small "slit" closest to the steering wheel is for cards or parking tickets etc. Pretty cool once I looked it up in the book. Doesn't say what the other is for. I put my coins in there. Cute car! Great review!

[@reneecanales7900]

@New York native I love mine! Feels solid and handles well. I can easily do U-turns without having to 3-point turn it. I get 28.3 mpg, 340+ mi per tank. Parking is a breeze, considering I used to drive a Grand Caravan. The 2 center cupholders sre offset, so the tops 2 drinks of the same size don't hit. Large trunk for its size. Easy access to trunk from the inside of the car. Liked it much better than a Nissan Versa. Only dislike, no place for trash.

[@rockchildofthe60s69]

I just bought a brand new 2019 sonic and paid a whopping 15G for it. Your right the faster you go the better the milage gets lol. I think I might have a bigger tank than you. I have gotten down to fumes about 2 weeks after I got the car by accident. I misread the gas level and the mileage..long story. Anyways I put 24 I think it was at I am thinking the gas was 2.15 a gallon maybe. But my wipers work great. And I hate that stupid little pos arm rest to! Lol I put a little soft pillow on the seat but I have a real bad back and need a comfortable seat. I feel I got a pretty decent deal. The car only had 26 miles on it when I bought it.

[@josephharrelson8635]

8 have a 2015 sonic lt, no problem at all, it starts all the time, im in Chicago so it gets very cold. I have 41000 miles, very good car so far, i bought it brand new it had 11 miles on it lol, good investment so far

[@TodayWeTry]

the chevy sonic gas gauge is very inaccurate when you see the last bar you have about 3 gallons left in the tank so filling up on the last bar means yeah you're only putting 9-10 gallons in because anything after the 10 is reserve tank of about 2 gallons giving you the full 12.2 gallons it can hold

[@masterdebater8757]

The air drag and thusly power needed increases with that kind of speed. If you look at your tachometer your well over 2500rpms even with the 6speed auto most engines give best results under 2000rpms. Add a head wind to that and watch the MPG's fall even more. EPA testing isn't likely done at 80mph solid in one direction on the highway. It is likely varied in speed and in both directions to account for grade/elevation changes and wind directions.

[@roberthein2156]

News Update: My "12,SONIC Hatchback, 1.4 turbo, 6-sped. W/103,000. Gets 40.3 mpg, 6th gear, on cruise @ 70 mph. Drop your speed 10 mph, you ACTUALLY might get more. Doing that might cost you 12-14 minutes more per hour of driving. I have a lower lumbar adjustment. Have a 12 GALLON tank, YES, THEY NEED A 15-16 GALLON TANK. IF YOU RUN OUT OF FUEL, ENGINE GOES INTO LIMP MODE ( CAUSE OF THE TURBO!) SO AT THAT POINT, YOU HAVE TO REPOLARIZE THE POS. AND NEG. TERMANILS. IF YOUR A MECHANIC, YOU'LL KNOW HOW.

[@alexsaab8089]

Yeah I get about 30mpg@80mph in my 2003 Saab 9-3 2.0t(Ecotec) 5 speed auto. I believe the sonic has a 6 speed manual which might bump up mpg at high speed. But 30mpg is pretty good

[@geraldscott9446]

You obviously have a later model. I have a 2013 Sonic hatchback with the 1.4L turbo automatic. According to the computer, it gets nearly 45 mpg while cruising at 65 mph on the highway (I don't like pushing that tiny little engine much past that) But the mileage drops down to around 19 mpg in stop and go city driving. I have found visibility to be poor. The drivers side B pillar (between the doors) blocks side vision when you are trying to pull out onto a road. The dash display and stereo settings are unnecessarily complicated. I have no use for onstar or bluetooth, both are disabled. For an owner, this car is difficult to maintain. I paid $200 for a GM service manual. I service my car (especially oil, coolant, and transmission fluid) WAY more often than recommended. I am a vintage car mechanic, but I can work on anything mechanical, just no computerized junk. This appears to be a disposable car. I have put 328,000 miles on a '98 Mercury Grand Marquis, and am up to 134,000 on an '06 MGM. I do not see the Sonic even making it to 200,000 miles no matter how well it is maintained. Glad I bought mine used. I would not base a purchasing decision on a rental experience. This is a cheap (as in cheaply made) car, it is not a luxury car. I can live with it's shortcomings, but no way would I spend $20,000 plus tax, title, and license , plus dealer fees on a crappy car that will be lucky to make 150,000 miles. The same thing applies to the Ford Fiesta. Spend just a little bit more and get a Toyota Corolla, and get your 300,000+ miles.

[@RigginTheRod010]

So depends on if you're going up hills or down them with mpg

[@scottphilbrook666]

Appreciate your video but 80mph in a headwind and you expect 40mpg + ? I have a 1.4Turbo 6M and when commuting including some stop and go, but over half highway about 65 and I got 41-44mpg no problem if you drive like adult. Realize KS has a high speed limit but you're pushing a lot of air at 80+.

[@roberthein2156]

Agree, time vs. Gas mileage? Who knew.

[@johnharrisonschulz]

What year is the car?

[@rdmineer1]

Rainex fluid and silicone wipers will keep your windshield clean for years in all weather.

[@gsxellence]

The Sonic LTZ I had as my rental was great fully loaded ( without sunroof), loved the turbo, fuel economy not bad at all really, ride was great, heated seats/steering wheel. the cargo room and passenger space very roomy for a car of this size. Would I purchase one yes especially over a cruze, and has to be an RS model :) I would def. take a Verano Turbo over this however ( Love that car :)

[@roberthein2156]

RS- DIFFERNT HEARING IN 6-SPD. REAR BRAKES, CALIPER/ROTORS. FOG LIGHTS DIFFERENT. BADGING HAS RS

[@jscons7424]

I have 2016 RS hatchback and I love it, spacious for every adventure. 😜

[@johnnyberetta9533]

Thanks. Great review of what looks like a dynamite little Chevy. The Chevy Sonic, Ford Fiesta, and the Toyota Yaris all look alike to me. I have driven both the Ford and Toyota product, and both were great. In fact, the Fiesta was one of the most fun little cars I have ever driven. The Toyota could use a little more than it's 106 hp, and a better automatic transmission than it's outdated 4 speed automatic. A six speed would help. The handling and economy were great on both. I now want to drive a Sonic.

[@AntRocker]

Dude your doing 80mph, do that at 65mph

[@roadtripboy]

I do have to add my Ford Focus only has 12 gallon gas tank. So the Sonic's tank is normal for this size car. Also, my sister's Mustange with a V6 also has a 12 gallon tank.

[@notsam498]

I own one. These cars don't do great at above 75mph for fuel economy. Modifications have actually increased the mileage at above 80. This car will get 38mpg going about 65mph and about 35mpg going 75ish mph. That next 5mph is brutal on the turbo duty cycle. Mine is fairly modified. I watch the boost climb up and stay at 10-12psi constant a lot of times going 80. At 65mph if the grounds flat it will only use about 6 or so psi of boost. What is impressive though is that even taking the car up to 150mph it has never gotten below 24mpg. Really I can launch it all over the place and it doesn't dip below 28mpg usually. That's making about 180-190ish according to the data logs. I have done several trips where I could do a constant 85mph for about 100 miles and it still averaged 29mpg. I have owned the car for 5 years and 170000 miles. For a little comparison. My old focus st with a 2 liter making about 280hp never got me more then 26mpg even with mostly highway and gentle driving.

[@topfuel6824]

Listening to the worst of the complaints I’m surprised he did not complain about not having a tampon dis Spencer installed

[@brittanyfosberg1029]

What year is this vehicle? That’s not the gauge cluster for any Sonic I’ve seen. It should be a digital speedometer with a large tachometer on the left.

[@adoreimanii]

I’m thinking about getting the sonic for me while i’m in college, I just need something affordable, safe, and good on gas. Would you recommend the car to a college student?

[@ryanchristensen1799]

Yes its pretty economical (under $17k) and now that the sonic is being discontinued you can get it for probably even cheaper.

[@isaach5489]

How can you get such good gas mileage with your v8 mustang. I have a 4.6 gt 2007 that gets early 20s

[@carlgoogle2869]

I lol'd when you talked about the armrest.

[@oscarturcios8000]

How is it on the snow?

[@Alex-pn9hp]

I just bought one love it

[@curtis1951]

It will get the EPA rated mpg, just not at 80 mph. Slow down.

[@joes0406]

Some speed limits out west could be up to 85 so that’s not bad

[@jdegros813]

I drive one everyday as a driving instructor, and its a great car to teach in unless you get a six footer.

[@Hollowalone1]

Jose DeGros I am 6'4 and have a Sonic as a daily driver and I fit well suprisingly

[@USCGCoasttoast]

Ok I had the car over two weeks now--35MPG.

[@fidelgutierrez4690]

Do you have a automatic or manual i have a 6speed LT TURBO SONIC I GET 42MPG

[@NoName-ub5to]

I actually committed the OnStar blooper for the first time the other night. Scared the crap outta me! Frantically pushing buttons until I hit one that deactivated the thing. ROFLMAO! Yes, lots of trips to the gas station.

[@j.daviddelano7951]

Peach Blossom Yeah the lever is a trap. It makes you call for help and I've done it with both my 2013 & 2016. They really should have designed it better.

[@NoName-ub5to]

Thank you for posting your review of the car; it was really helpful to me. Everything you said is totally accurate--a few quirks, but I love the car.

[@LadyDeathHawk]

Also are you putting the right gas in? Turbos take premium

[@nicholasdickinson9955]

LadydeathhawkXx :: this car takes normal gas...not premium

[@dblissmn]

This one can benefit a bit from premium in very severe driving conditions, but it is tuned for 87 and in practice works well on it. The ECM seems to adapt appropriately to 92 though and some people report a slight improvement in fuel mileage too.

[@willowmylove]

Great review!!

[@candy5742]

Since this car is small does it bounce around and rock when you go over 40 like a spark?

[@axiumaudio]

actually the ride was pretty nice.

[@ryanchristensen1799]

Yep and road noise isnt all that bad either at highway speeds. I read that the sonics suspension was designed by the same people who did the Corvette!

[@sopwithsnoopy8779]

What mpg do you get the old-fashioned way of filling up and driving until you fill up again, then figure it out? The computer telling me my mpg on my 2014 Chevy Cruze is waaaaay off, it tells me I'm only getting 24-25 mpg at the best of times, usually way worse than that. But real-world driving I actually get 34-35 Interstate @71 mph. I drove to St. Louis, 372 miles before I filled up again (still had roughly 1/3 of a tank of gas left), and I only used 8.979 gallons of gas. You do the math. My mpg computer was probably (I don't have it turned on, on the display) telling me I was getting 25 mpg :p Usually on a 2-hour trip to Detroit or Chicago I'm only getting 35 highway though.

[@smokum0]

You do know when the fuel light comes on you aren't empty right? You will have a couple of gallons left. Hence the only putting 10 gallons in a 12 gallon tank. And the mph rating is based on a certain speed, of course when you are doing 80 mph you will get lower mileage than if you are doing 60 mph. You look old enough to know this.

[@neneodonkor]

GIMPS do similar cars have the same fuel gallon size?

[@j.daviddelano7951]

I get the same. I know that when the distance to empty reads - -, I can go another 30-35 miles and still only put 10.8 gallons max into it.

[@axiumaudio]

I rented a Ford Fusion Hybrid in California, did 80 or so with traffic and used 8.8 gallons of fuel in 450 miles. which is 51 miles per gallon in a large car that was loaded.

[@jmccann2001]

Well of course, a hybrid is going to use a lot less fuel. You sure you know about cars?

[@NoName-ub5to]

I notice they are now making the Chevy Cruz in a similar body style. Do you know if they are going to discontinue the Sonic?

[@dblissmn]

still in the lineup for 2019. A good thing too; the Cruze sedan, like the current Civic and Corolla, is too long for my parking spot and the Cruze hatch too short for my skis, so I'm looking to either keep my Sonic sedan for several more years if I can bring myself to trust on there being an appropriate replacement when the time comes, or trade it in on a new one.

[@ryanchristensen1799]

There was a rumor it was going to be discontinued but the Orion plant (Sonic) is not going to be closed down like the lordstown plant (Cruze) did 2 weeks ago.

[@rockstarmyles]

The OnStar button is fine where it is. This guy is just clumsy

[@lisakukla459]

I've never hit it on accident, either.

[@roberthein2156]

Happens when I adjust the mirror to dim, need a shut off switch, elsewhere.

[@Lincolnator721]

And he's a liar. No one's getting 30+ mpg with a V8 mustang

[@ajh5124]

Love my 2015 Sonic LS Hatchback

[@Bluegreenred]

Would you still recommend a Chevy Sonic over Kia Forte?

[@trier4952]

I had to rent a kia optima for a road trip a couple of years ago. It was nice, but the seats felt like bricks covered in cloth. They were not comfortable at all. So take my advice, if you buy a Kia or a Hyundai, get one with leather seats. They're much better

[@kel12176]

A little tip get a pocket size truck stop guide this way you will know where there is fuel ahead of you and they are open 24-7

[@axiumaudio]

never thought of that

[@joes0406]

I drove through some pretty remote parts of states like Wyoming and made sure I mapped out where gas was ahead of time

[@nighteyeson]

CVT transmission...same as Nissan problems...???

[@KF1]

6 speed automatic. All transmissions can have problems. Helps to change the fluid.

[@keithsclassicgarage1133]

I have one. I avg 33 mpg. Love it. Mine is a 2017.

[@elelegidoriginal]

Why are you recording a video with a phone in your your hands *while driving*?

[@rexb6478]

Are you going to do a review of the GMC/Silverado trucks anytime soon?

[@axiumaudio]

no, but thanks for the idea

[@CMRinehart]

It has a 12.2 gallon tank.

[@Jmpaul26]

That's a great idea, renting the car you're considering buying. I'm not sure all of my prospects would cost $115/wk though.

[@joes0406]

And $400 a month would be about a car payment on a brand new loaded model

[@grizzlydan8]

Good, fair, and really helpful review. Thanks.

[@blackbunny5327]

This car is more for beginners in my opinion, its a great first car cause gas won't be $40 each refill. Its a fast car but not speed demon fast, my friends dad got her a 2017 or 2018 Chevy impala and lets just say you shouldnt give a young woman a car that can go 80 in less then 5 seconds. Its seems Chevy has a lot of problems with their gear shift buttons on their older cars which has me shaking my head, which by the way if your gear gets stuck its the button you gotta pry it unstuck or get it replaced at the dealers. I have a used sonic and whoever had her last really messed her up because she has a dying battery, a broken speaker, a broken/dying headlight, the tires had no trim left. I've now had her for 2 years and I finally have the money to start restoring my girl. (Ps. I hate the arm rest)

[@joes0406]

I had a Caprice that turned out to be an electrical pig as well

[@louisalexander2647]

I get about 404 miles on a full tank.. sometimes I've noticed 415 miles. Idk why. Maybe because the kind of gas I put in at the time.

[@geraldscott9446]

It's a nice car, but it's too bad the Dexcool GM put in it will destroy the engine within 2-3 years. Reply

[@eda.4145]

Just thought I'd chime in - got a chev with over 200k on it, and only just recently swapped for standard coolant during a flush/fill - still runs strong as new. Smells kinda funneh, but that might be me.

[@ryanchristensen1799]

Thats because of stupid people mix green coolant with the dexcool. It turns into sludge! Have a 2012 with 135k miles on mine with no issue on the coolant!

[@franciscosiles]

Was this the sedan or hatchback version?

[@axiumaudio]

sedan

[@MalikSucksAss]

This is OnStar. Stop callin us nigga.

[@THELASTMEDICALNINJA1995]

😂

[@logan5561]

Is the ac decent

[@lincolnlowell4519]

Awesome man I think that was a super Fair review! I have a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ and the most I've ever put in it for fuel is 10.12 gallons if I'm correct and I believe that was today because it said I had 5 miles until empty LOL I'm so glad I made it to the station! However though I do not under any circumstances share your opinion about the armrest my LTZ is all leather I'm not sure if the car you're driving is leather or not because my eyesight is really bad and I couldn't see the video all that long however though all-in-all I agree with you on just about everything you said!

[@davidsallas5915]

The problem the problem with these reviews of these people are driving new cars drive a Chevy Sonic with about 50,000 miles on it and see what kind of problems it will have it will have AC problems a whole bunch of problems the Chevy Sonic is what was called a disposable car after a hundred thousand miles invested to get rid of it

[@nissan2829]

The one thing ive learned with all small cars I've ever owned, is they all have small fuel tanks. That's just how they're designed.

[@princesssmile7958]

Is it fuel efficient ?

[@kylemas2005]

Yeah I dunno. The reliability of the Spark, Sonic, Aveo, etc leaves much to be deisired. Ill stick with my 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage CVT. Its a low torque, low hp, low curb weight, simple, reliable shitbox.

[@hiddennugget9413]

I 💜my Sonic 15