Detroit: 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is the hot hatch enthusiasts have been waiting for

2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS

We got our first look at the 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, this version looks to hit the enthusiast bull’s-eye.

7eef4 16 2013 chevrolet sonic rs detroit opt Detroit: 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is the hot hatch enthusiasts have been waiting forWhile GM didn’t offer any more details about the car 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 this version of the Sonic a distinct personality, and we’re hoping the four-wheel discs, stiffer suspension and retuned (read: louder) exhaust seal the deal.

The Sonic RS also 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 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 there’s no power upgrade in the RS, we’ve found that the 1.4-liter, 138-horsepower turbo makes for a lot of fun when paired with the six-speed manual. An automatic will also be available, and Chevy says both transmissions will have different gearing in the RS, which should turn the fun dial up another notch.

Of course there’s always the possibility that Chevy could really turn up the wick, drop a turbo 2.0-liter Ecotec under the hood and slap an SS badge on the hatch. Maybe at next year’s Detroit show. Click past the jump to read the full release.

Continue reading 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is the hot hatch enthusiasts have been waiting for

2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is the hot hatch enthusiasts have been waiting for

    



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