Victory Red Sonic RS one of the ‘hot hatchbacks’
There are a slew of small “hot hatchbacks” out there today. Most are turbocharged and all bring the “fun” back into driving your daily commute.
Whether you want cargo space, style, horsepower or all of the above, there is a model out there for you. This week we’ll look at a Victory Red Sonic RS 6-speed manual.
The Sonic RS is the turbo version of the popular subcompact car from Chevy. It packs a turbo 1.4L engine, four-wheel disc brakes, lowered ride height, unique front fascia and sporty 17-inch aluminum wheels. The 1.4L Ecotec boasts 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, but don’t let those numbers trick you, this hatchback has plenty of giddy-up. It also has a very satisfying exhaust and engine note when you put your foot down.
The Jet Black interior provides leather seats with suede microfiber inserts and red “RS” embossed on the seat backs. The race-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel also carries the RS logo.
Just behind the steering wheel is a unique gauge cluster that features a digital speedometer and analog rev gauge.
The cluster is stylish, but also awkward. The center stack houses a touch screen with Chevy’s MyLink infotainment technology and chunky HVAC controls.
There is plenty of leg and head room. The seats are ideal for spirited commutes down your favorite back road. I especially enjoyed repeated trips between Freedom and Cranberry looping between Route 989 and Route 19. Handling is improved due to the sport suspension, lowered ride height and precision steering.
Shifting the 6-speed is fun, but isn’t as tight as you would expect and the clutch pedal felt loose.
The rear seats fold down to increase cargo room and I was able to load my hockey equipment with no issues. I was also able to install my son’s car seat easily. The rear door handles are hidden in the window moldings giving this 4-door the appearance of a coupe.
The RS-specific front fascia is very bold and attractive with integrated fog lamps and chrome accents. The RS package is a good combination of sporty driving dynamics, style and fuel economy.
Chevy claims 30 mpg combined and I was able to get 26 mpg driving the RS hard, with the majority being suburban driving. Pricing might be the best part of this model. Total vehicle price with the RS package is $20,995. Chevy also offers a 5-year/100,000 mile power train limited warranty.
Will Chamberlain is a local freelance automotive journalist. You can reach him at wchamberlain@pgh carguys.com; on Facebook at PGH Car Guys; and on Twitter @PghCarGuys.