2012 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is an all-new model that replaces the Aveo as Chevrolet’s U.S. subcompact. It launches as a sedan and five-door hatchback with new engines and a strong set of standard safety features.
About the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
1st U.S. Sonic generation (2012-2020), first year before the later refresh.
Chevrolet positions the 2012 Sonic as a small car that does not feel cheap or dull. The core themes are fun-to-drive handling, useful interior space, strong crash protection, and a choice between a practical sedan and a more flexible hatchback. Chevrolet also emphasizes that it is built in Orion, Michigan and offers an available turbo engine, giving the Sonic a more substantial, more spirited identity than many budget-focused subcompacts of the time.
The 2012 Sonic ranges from the practical LS to the more comfortable LT and the dressed-up LTZ. The LT adds everyday conveniences such as power windows and heated mirrors, while the LTZ stands out with heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth, and 17-inch wheels.
What changed, by category
2012 Chevrolet Sonic specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25–29 mpg | 26–27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35–40 mpg | 35–37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9–30.7 cu-ft | 14.9–30.7 cu-ft | 14.9–30.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2012 the first year of the Chevrolet Sonic?
Yes. The 2012 model is the first U.S. Chevrolet Sonic, replacing the Aveo with an all-new subcompact.
What body styles did the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic have?
The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic came as a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. Both body styles launched with the new Sonic nameplate.
Does the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic have a turbo engine?
Some upper-trim 2012 Sonics have a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The base engine is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder.
What safety features were standard on the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic?
The 2012 Sonic came standard with 10 airbags, stability control, antilock brakes, and hill-start assistance.
How do the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic LS, LT, and LTZ differ?
The LS is the practical entry trim, the LT adds conveniences such as power windows and heated mirrors, and the LTZ adds heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth, fog lamps, and 17-inch wheels.