Auto Guide
2020 Chevrolet Sonic
Used

Review and specifications

2020 Chevrolet Sonic

The standard Sonic uses an unimpressive 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes the expense of upgrading to the modestly quicker and more fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder worthwhile. The six-speed manual transmission is somewhat balky, but the automatic has to dig for gears constantly. Handling is fairly nimble, the brakes are excellent, and the ride is civilized for this class. The sedan has a huge trunk and gives a better view out, but the hatchback version has more cargo versatility. Both offer a relatively quiet cabin, but the rear seats are cramped. We'd opt for the LT automatic sedan for its extra cargo space and visibility and the MyLink system. We'd also look for the quicker and more efficient turbocharged engine. Crash-test results are impressive. 2020 was the final year for the Sonic.

Market value
$10,800
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2020
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door hatchback
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Small sedans/hatchbacks
Generation began
2012

Pricing

Current retail median
$10,800
Retail value range
$8,825 - $12,425
Original MSRP range
$16,720 - $21,520
Trade-in range
$5,720 - $9,085

Fuel economy

EPA city
26 MPG
EPA highway
34 MPG
EPA combined
29 MPG

Road tests

Test status
Not Tested

Dimensions

Length
174 in
Width
68 in
Height
60 in
Wheelbase
99 in
Weight
2,765 lb
Maximum load
895 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
5.5 in
Front leg room
42 in
Rear head room
2.5 in
Rear leg room
24 in
Luggage
3+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
5/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Chevrolet

Chevrolet sells a wide range of sedans, coupes, compact SUVs, large SUVs, EVs, and pickup trucks. Most models have roomy interiors and come with standard safety and convenience technology. Several models, however, have poor visibility and lack steering agility. Many Chevrolets rank average or below average for reliability in CR’s rankings. The brand stands out for selling historically significant and category-defining vehicles. The Suburban and Tahoe can keep three rows of passengers comfortable within their enormous cabins. The Silverado pickup truck competes with the best-selling Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 by balancing interior comfort with towing and cargo capability. In the past and today, the Camaro and Corvette are performance car bargains. The rear/mid-engined “C8” Corvette can be as thrilling as much more expensive European supercars. With some exceptions, used Chevrolets can have reliability issues, but are often less expensive to maintain and repair than competitors.

Vehicle ID: 15247 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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