The all-new Chevrolet Sonic RS has just officially launched in South Africa, sporting high levels of specification and enhanced design elements.

Turbocharged performance

The new Sonic RS is equipped with a 1.4-litre turbocharged ECOTEC petrol engine which delivers 103 kW of power at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. Power is sent through the front wheels via a six speed manual gearbox.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes place in 9.5 seconds to reach a top speed of 197 km/h, while fuel consumption is rated at just 6.6-litres/100 km on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 155 g/km.

Tuned suspension, which takes shape in the form of a MacPherson strut design up front and a multi-link setup at the rear, allows for improved handling especially under sportier conditions. The Sonic RS further features a lower ride height with stiffer suspension and performance-tuned dampers to deliver a communicative and firm-yet-comfortable ride.

Enhanced design elements

The new Sonic can be identified by its aggressive front bumper flagged by expressive and angular fog lights with chrome detailing, gunmetal-painted 17-inch alloy wheels, new side skirts and black-painted door mirrors with integrated LED indicators.

At the rear, the motorcycle-inspired tail lights are joined by a new roof spoiler, an accented rear diffuser with a striking trapezoidal exhaust tip and special Sonic RS badging.

The interior boasts red detailing with a new sports steering wheel, new aluminium sports dials and seats decorated in RS emblems, high-resolution 7-inch touch screen, as well as a Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. An upgraded rev counter also features an RS badge, while the centre console features piano black finishes.

Safety equipment includes disc brakes all-round with ABS, EBD and BAS, ESC and Traction Control, a full-size spare wheel, ISOFIX child seat anchors and four airbags.

Chevrolet Sonic RS price in South Africa

The new Sonic RS retails for R225 300 and is available as standard with a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and a 3-year/ 60 000 km service plan linked to service intervals of 15 000 km.

Chevrolet Sonic RS gallery