2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS Road Test and Review: Final Thoughts
If this review is tinged with a touch of negativity, blame it on the Sonic’s “RS” badge, which ought to stand for “Revised Styling” instead of “Rally Sport.”
Viewed through the Revised Styling lens, this is an impressive package with good looks, great crash-test scores, and plenty of amenities at an affordable price point. I’m also a big fan of the latest edition of Chevy MyLink, which is simple to use and graphically pleasing.
Viewed through the Rally Sport lens, the Sonic RS is a dynamically competent machine but lacking in the kind of engagement and communication that people who enjoy driving might expect from the RS badge. The chassis feels like it has more to give, like it could handle a little more horsepower and torque, 18-inch wheels, performance-oriented tires, and a better transmission.
In summary, the Sonic RS could be a budget GTI. Instead, Chevy takes the classic “stripes and decals” approach here, but instead of actual stripes and decals, the key reasons to pay extra for the Sonic RS are related to its nice-looking wheels, leather seats, and standard MyLink technology. Given the Sonic’s mission within the Chevrolet lineup, maybe that’s not necessarily a bad approach.