2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS Comes Pretty Well Equipped

We got our first look at the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS in the flesh today, unveiled alongside two Chevy concepts – the Tru 140S Concept and Code 130R Concept – at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. As much as we’ve liked the Sonic, the Chevrolet Sonic RS version looks to hit the enthusiast bull’s-eye.

With no additional power over the regular Sonic fitted with Chevy’s turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, the new Chevrolet Sonic RS is more trim level than standalone model but we’re sure this won’t put off too many buyers. That’s because the car comes pretty well-equipped, and in light of the $14,995 starting price of the base Sonic, it could make an argument as a true budget hot-hatch.

The more-aggressive look of the Chevrolet Sonic RS images is inspired by the concept that debuted in Detroit in 2010. The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic, which is a new exterior color for the 2013 Sonic. The Chevrolet Sonic RS remains true to the progressive spirit of the concept and brings an unmistakable attitude to the segment, said John Mack, design director for the Sonic.

“From every angle and every touch point, it is a car that is unabashed in its performance statement – and one that drives Chevrolet’s performance legacy into its second century.” One of the most-dramatic cues from the concept carried into the production model is the Chevrolet Sonic RS front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car’s road-hugging stance.

The Chevrolet Sonic RS wears a slightly different front fascia with a new grille and fog lamps, but the change in appearance isn’t all that drastic, as the base Sonic is already pretty aggressive. Other exterior kit that’s exclusive to the Chevrolet Sonic RS includes a new spoiler and rocker moldings, a chrome exhaust tip, and a new five-spoke wheel design (though the wheels are still 17-inchers).

While GM didn’t offer any more details about the Chevrolet Sonic RS specs other than what we already knew, we did get to see the upgraded interior, and it looks great. The special RS sport seats, thicker sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals and the MyLink infotainment system give the car a distinct personality, and we’re hoping the four-wheel discs, stiffer suspension and retuned (read: louder) exhaust seal the deal.

The Drivetrain 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS

If the cosmetic dress-up suggests the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS packs some additional power underhood, you may be in for a bit of a disappointment. A turbocharged 1.4-liter I-4 is standard equipment in the Chevrolet Sonic RS engine, but it’s no more powerful than the same engine offered as an option on Sonic LT and LTZ models.

Despite utilizing a retuned exhaust system, output remains 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, that’s not to say the cars doesn’t incorporate any hardware designed to improve the driving experience. While the optional six-speed automatic is shared with other turbocharged Sonic models, the Chevrolet Sonic RS six-speed manual gearbox receives different gearing to inject some pep.

The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS models also gain unique suspension tuning, which bundles a lower ride height with stiffer springs and dampers. Chevy also saw fit to ditch the rear drum brakes, making the Chevrolet Sonic RS the only Sonic to utilize a four-wheel disc brake system.