Chevrolet Sonic — All Years
We have Chevrolet Sonic specifications on file for 9 model years, 2012–2020, covering saloon/sedan trims. Across those years EPA data lists 2 different engines. Combined fuel economy runs from 34 to 38 mpg (UK) depending on year, engine and transmission. 9 of the 9 rated model years hold an overall 5-star NHTSA rating. Select a year below for full engine, fuel economy, dimensions and safety data.
| Year | Engine(s) | Fuel | MPG (UK) | CO₂ g/km | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo | Regular Gasoline | 35 | 191 | 5★ | 0 | 10 |
| 2019 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo | Regular Gasoline | 35–37 | 177 | 5★ | 0 | 8 |
| 2018 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 174 | 5★ | 1 | 14 |
| 2017 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 175 | 5★ | 0 | 37 |
| 2016 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 171 | 5★ | 2 | 48 |
| 2015 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 171 | 5★ | 3 | 114 |
| 2014 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 171 | 5★ | 4 | 150 |
| 2013 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 171 | 5★ | 6 | 217 |
| 2012 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo / 1.8L 4-cyl | Regular Gasoline | 34–38 | 173 | 5★ | 7 | 354 |
Best and Worst Chevrolet Sonic Years: What the NHTSA Data Shows
Across the 9 Chevrolet Sonic model years from 2012 to 2020 that have NHTSA data, the typical year has about 48 owner complaints on file. These are the extremes:
Fewest owner complaints
Complaint counts are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and rise with how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road, so treat them as a pointer for what to inspect, not a reliability score. Model years after 2022 are left out because they have had little time to accumulate reports. Always check a specific car by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Engine History
- 1.4L 4-cyl turbo — 2012–2020
- 1.8L 4-cyl — 2012–2018
Engines are those EPA lists for each model year; the MPG (UK) column shows the range across configurations where more than one exists.
Compare the Chevrolet Sonic With Rivals
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Frequently Asked Questions
What years is the Chevrolet Sonic covered on this site?
We have data for 9 model years of the Chevrolet Sonic, from 2012 to 2020.
What engines does the Chevrolet Sonic come with?
EPA data lists: 1.4L 4-cyl turbo (2012–2020); 1.8L 4-cyl (2012–2018).
Which Chevrolet Sonic year has the best fuel economy?
The 2018 model returns the highest combined MPG (UK) on record here, at 38 mpg on its most efficient configuration.
Does the Chevrolet Sonic have a 5-star NHTSA safety rating?
Yes — the 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 model years hold an overall 5-star NHTSA rating on record here.
Which Chevrolet Sonic model years have the most recalls and complaints?
The 2012 model year has the most NHTSA recall campaigns on record (7), and the 2012 has the most owner complaints (354). NHTSA lists no recalls for 2017 and 2019–2020. Counts are from NHTSA as of 6 October 2026 and change over time; complaints are unverified owner reports.
What body style is the Chevrolet Sonic?
The Chevrolet Sonic is classed as a saloon/sedan on this site.
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