“The RS moniker forms the first level of performance-orienatted nomenclature in the Chevrolet product portfolio,” said Chevrolet brand manager at GMSA Tim Hendon.
“Originally applied to the Chevrolet Camaro RS (Rally Sport) in 1967, with this badge we are now providing a sportier, more athletic Sonic hatchback to performance-minded South Africans, the B-segment benefitting from a ‘hot Chevy’ for the first time.
“The new Sonic RS exhibits performance-enhancing mecha-nical upgrades, superior levels of driving comfort and a high specification level, which includes the all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system – all presented in a sexy hatchback body and with driving enjoyment at the heart of it all.”
Featuring GM’s global 1.4-litre turbocharged Ecotec petrol engine, the car produces 103Nm and 200Nm – the front wheels receiving the power through a six-speed close ratio manual gearbox.
The turbocharged performance figures claim a 0-100km/h sprint time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 197km/h.
Tuned suspension, which takes shape in the form of a MacPherson strut design up front and a multi-link setup at the rear, allows for improved handling, especially under sportier conditions. The Sonic RS features a lower ride height with stiffer suspension and performance-tuned dampers to deliver a firm, yet comfortable, ride.
A more aggressive front bumper features angular fog lights with chrome detail. Gunmetal-painted 17-inch alloy wheels in a muscular five-spoke design are separated by chunky new side skirts and black-painted door mirrors with integrated LED indicators. At the rear, the motorcycle-inspired tail lights are joined by a new roof spoiler, an accented rear diffuser with a striking trapezoidal exhaust tip and special Sonic RS badging.
The interior continues the sporty design theme with top-quality materials.
Red accents abound – the stitching on the leather-bound, flat-bottomed steering wheel, RS emblems on the seats and piping on the floor mats – embodying the zestier Sonic’s personality. An upgraded rev counter also features an RS badge.
The seats are covered in a combination of leather and ribbed suede inserts, providing both comfort and sporty grip.
The centre console features piano black finishes and the integration of the all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system completes the interior of this driver’s car.
Befitting of the new halo model in the Chevrolet Sonic range, the new Sonic RS features a high level of value-added specifications in terms of safety, comfort and convenience.
Standard features include the 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, sports suspension, a multi-function steering wheel with satellite controls for the audio system, as well as cruise control, MyLink, including full media support and Bluetooth for hands-free cellphone use and audio streaming, piano black and matt-silver trim, red RS-specific detailing, sports leather and suede combination seats, sports pedals and RS floor mats.
Safety equipment includes disc brakes with ABS, EBD and BAS, ESC and traction control, a full-size spare wheel, ISOFIX child seat anchors and four airbags.
The new Sonic RS retails for R225 300 and is available as standard with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 3-year/60 000 km service plan linked to service intervals of 15 000km.
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