RS is new Sonic halo model from Chevrolet

Turbocharged and sportier new RS puts the fun back into driving

• 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine for great performance and fuel efficiency
• Tuned suspension ups handling prowess
• High-level specifications add value

FEBRUARY 2014 – General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has kicked off 2014 with the launch of the all-new Chevrolet Sonic RS. The new Sonic RS joins the local Sonic model range as the new halo model which sports turbocharged performance and uprated handling, along with a high level of specification and enhanced design elements for a uniquely exciting driving experience.

“The RS moniker forms the first level of performance-oriented nomenclature in the Chevrolet product portfolio,” explains 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 mechanical 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.”

Turbo power and tuned performance

Featuring GM’s global 1.4-litre turbocharged ECOTEC® petrol engine, the new Sonic RS makes use of 103 kW at 6 000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4 000 rpm – the front wheels receiving the power through a slick six-speed manual gearbox with close ratios for sporty performance. Audibly exciting as well, the tuned exhaust system allows the improved performance to be heard while still maintaining comfortable noise levels at all times.

The turbocharged performance figures include a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 197 km/h.

Balancing out the increase in excitement and sporty driving antics, the ECOTEC® engine also provides for improved fuel efficiency – the new Sonic RS consumes just 6.6-litres per 100 km on the combined average cycle, with carbon emissions of 155 g/km to match.

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 featuring a lower ride height with stiffer suspension and performance-tuned dampers to deliver a communicative and firm-yet-comfortable ride.

Hot, inside and out

The new Chevrolet Sonic RS can be easily identified by the distinct yet subtle design changes found on the exterior. A more aggressive front bumper features expressive and angular fog lights with chrome detailing. 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 and 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 used to express the RS moniker. 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 for both comfort and sporty grip, the aluminium pedals augmenting the spirited drive even further. 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.

MyLink brings smartphone functionality to Sonic RS

The Chevrolet MyLink system is an integration of the most popular and advanced infotainment functions incorporated into an easy-to-use, attractive and effective interface which transforms the Chevrolet Sonic RS into a connected entertainment hub while on the move.

Comprising a host of smart features, the MyLink system is moving Chevrolet vehicles quickly forward in the in-car technology stakes. MyLink is fitted as standard on the new Sonic RS and features as an optional extra on 2014 Sonic LS models, giving the Sonic range a competitive edge in the B-segment.

Get connected, be entertained and take control

The MyLink concept is simple – an integration of the most popular and advanced infotainment functions incorporated into an easy-to-use, attractive and effective interface.

MyLink incorporates a host of different media sources and formats, allowing the user to play or watch their favourite media in the car. Bluetooth audio streaming with playlist customisation and full smartphone integration allows MyLink to stay connected and become an extension of the phone itself. Full phonebook and call list integration with a smart dialling feature makes calling easier than ever before. Video playback and picture gallery viewing while the vehicle is stationary adds another, class-leading touch.

The high-resolution 7-inch touch screen is perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s dashboard and features touch button controls for a thoroughly modern look and feel. Voice control on most smartphones and steering wheel-mounted controls also mean the system can be operated in complete safety with both hands on the steering wheel.

MyLink has been designed to be compatible across the board both in terms of phone integration and playable media formats, which means the most common music, picture and video formats can be streamed or played via most smartphones – the additional USB and auxiliary ports ensuring that other sources of music, videos or photos can also be easily integrated. Up to 35 pre-set and 15 auto-stored AM or FM radio stations can be programmed as well, rounding off the complete entertainment solution that is MyLink.

High specifications augment the fun

Befitting of the new halo model in the Chevrolet Sonic range, the new Sonic RS features a high level of value-adding 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 all-round 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 15 000 km.

 

[source : Chevrolet]

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