Chevrolet has revealed itsnew Sonic saloon (known as the Aveo in Europe) at the Detroit motor show.
Powered by the same 1.8- and turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol motors that power the Chevrolet Cruze in the US, the new Sonic saloon will go on sale in America next year alongside the five-door hatch. Both are produced at GM’s Orion factory in Michigan.
Though it is not yet confirmed, it is unlikely that the booted Aveo will be coming to the UK, where demand for compact saloons is extremely low. However, the British market will be getting the five-door hatchback that was revealed at the Paris motor show last year, and which is identical to the saloon car back to the B-pillar.
Chevrolet claims that the new 2011 Aveo is a fresh start on its predecessor, bringing both a more upmarket experience and a better drive – brought to the Sonic by Corvette engineers that have been involved in the US car’s development.
Due on sale in the UK in the second half of 2011, the Chevrolet Aveo hatch will be set up specifically for Europe and will be competing against rivals such as the Ford Fiesta, VW Polo and Mazda 2. Power will be provided by two petrol engines - an 85bhp 1.2 and a 99bhp 1.4, and a 1.3-litre diesel motor will also be available in 74 or 94bhp guise.
Thanks to: Autocar