Chevrolet Sonic to get hot hatch version, but it won't be called an SS

The Chevy Sonic will get a higher-performance version powered by the Cruze's 1.4L turbo engine, but Chevrolet admits it's not worthy of an SS badge.

Chevrolet says it will offer a hot hatch performance version of the upcoming 2012 Sonic hatchback that will be powered by the 1.4L turbocharged engine that it will also share with the high-end and Eco versions of the Chevrolet Cruze. However, there will not be an SS version, as Chevrolet essentially admits that the Sonic is not a car that will offer enough performance to deserve the SS badge.

Chevrolet lead development engineer John Buttermore said "For 2013, we do have some sportier versions coming, just not an SS. It would take a lot more air going through that engine for an SS, and there is none in the works." The 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec engine will initially only be available with a six-speed manual transmission, which will certainly add to its sporting appeal, but also alienate the vast majority of American drivers who choose to have the car shift gears for them.

Buttermore says that a six-speed automatic will join the stickshift model early next year, but adds that it was originally scheduled to arrive for the 2013 model year. The Chevrolet Sonic is just now reaching dealerships as a domestically-produced replacement for the aging, substandard, and Korean-built Aveo.

Source: Wards Auto