IT might be hard to believe that demand for a light saloon with an automatic transmission would be significant, but irrespective of whether the clientele for such vehicles consists predominantly of fleet buyers, retirees or two-pedal devotees, virtually every volume manufacturer offers one. Enter the Chevrolet Sonic 1,6 LS 4-door AT.
The ‘box in the Chevrolet Sonic saloon is supposed to be a new design and it does boast six forward ratios, as opposed to the older Aveo’s four, but otherwise the only trick is the addition of a rocker switch on the right-hand side of the gearlever, with which the transmission can be operated in manual mode. In fact, we were happily surprised to find that this is a full-on sporty manual mode. The driver determines when to change up to the next ratio because the electronic management system will allow the engine to reach and sustain its rev limit unless otherwise instructed. What a pity some very expensive and powerful cars don’t allow this level of driver input.
Likewise, the transmission is not shy to push the revs up on downshifts to allow for a fair degree of engine braking. Still, if you skip the downshifts on approach to a stop street, intersection or traffic light, the gearbox will sensibly downshift all the way to first. Unfortunately, unless you are cruising or not in a particular rush to reach your destination, the automatic ‘box seems to become confused, changing its mind way too often while juggling those six gears.
The Chevrolet Sonic’s 1,6-litre engine has variable-valve timing to help produce 85 kW and 155 N.m, but isn’t particularly smooth. Still, it pulls well for a 1,6-litre and offers good mid-range torque. Although we we were concerned about the steering sensations of previous Sonic test units, this one has excellent feel in the full hydraulic setup with just a slight lack of directional stability (something inherited from the Aveo) that disappoints.
Braking, too, was better than expected, with an average time of 2,99 seconds, just slotting into our excellent classification. Fuel consumption on automatics is usually higher than the equi-valent manuals and with this model our index figure is 8,28 litres/100 km, with our fuel run at 9,1 litres/100 km.
Saloons don’t often match their hatchback siblings’ styling and the latest range of Sonic four-door models is not about to challenge that notion. It all starts off well in front with a strikingly bold look, but then loses the plot as you move aft to the oversized tail-lamps that look mismatched to the body size.
Inside, you’ll find hard but durable plastics. The plush cloth-covered front seats are very comfy in front with good support, but the rear bench is less impressive with limited support and legroom. Excessive sunlight intrusion through the oversized rear windscreen is limited by the addition of decal tinting. Instrumentation uses an analogue rev counter with a large digital speedometer, fuel gauge and a trip computer that displays only consumption in km/litres. Boot capacity is good at 384 dm3 and, while the rear backrests fold forward, the utility loading area, which can accommodate 1 048 dm3, is not flat.
The steering-wheel audio controls are small but effective, but note that cruise control, a USB port, Bluetooth phone connection and steering-wheel controls form part of the comfort package, which is an extra-cost option at R7 500. Doors unlock when you place the gearlever into park and lock as you select drive or reverse, and electric windows are provided only in front.
Some useful features that are not always offered as standard at this price level is a front-passenger airbag-deactivation function, a sunglasses holder, map pocket, four cupholders and an under-seat storage tray. On the other hand, the rear doors have no pockets.
Test Summary
It is unlikely that many young people will choose this car. It is more suited to elderly folk who want to commute without the hassle of a clutch or having to stir a gearlever. We believe that the Chevrolet Sonic automatic would be more pleasant to drive if it had four or five ratios instead of six.
However, if you avoid the persistent gear changing by driving at a leisurely pace, the Sonic makes a decent and comfortable run-about with good luggage space. If you prefer a more interactive driving experience, manual shifting may keep you happier, but then you’ll constantly have to reach for the gear selector or drive with only one hand on the wheel, which defeats the point of having of an automatic transmission.
