2013 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is the arrival of the RS performance hatchback. This is a meaningful trim and equipment update rather than a redesign.
About the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
1st generation (2012-2020 U.S.), second model year, before the later facelift.
Chevrolet positioned the Sonic as a small car that did not feel stripped down: youthful, fun to drive, and unusually safety-focused for the class. The brand leaned hard on its 5-star safety rating, 10 standard airbags, available turbo power, and choice of sedan or hatchback body styles. For most buyers, the Sonic’s appeal was simple: a subcompact that felt sturdier and more grown-up than many rivals while still being easy to park, practical for daily use, and available with useful tech.
The 2013 Sonic ranges from the straightforward LS and better-equipped LT to the comfort-focused LTZ, which has heated front seats and a 7-inch touchscreen. The new RS is the sporty standout, pairing a standard turbo engine with a lowered suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, upgraded seating, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
What changed, by category
2013 Chevrolet Sonic specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd / Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25–26 mpg | 25–29 mpg | 25 mpg | 26–27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35–40 mpg | 33 mpg | 35–37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9–47.7 cu-ft | 14.9–47.7 cu-ft | 47.7 cu-ft | 14.9–47.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic redesigned?
No. The 2013 Sonic remains part of the first generation introduced for 2012, but it receives a meaningful trim and equipment update led by the new RS hatchback.
What is different about the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS?
The 2013 Sonic RS is a new performance-focused hatchback with a standard 138-hp turbo engine, lowered sport suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, sport exhaust, heated upgraded seats, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
Did every 2013 Chevrolet Sonic have Bluetooth?
Yes. Bluetooth phone connectivity became standard across the entire 2013 Sonic lineup. The LT also received standard Bluetooth audio streaming and a USB audio input.
Was the MyLink touchscreen standard on every 2013 Chevrolet Sonic?
No. The 7-inch MyLink touchscreen was standard on the 2013 LTZ and RS and was offered on lower trims.
What does the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic add over the 2012 model?
The 2013 Sonic adds the RS performance hatchback, standard Bluetooth across the lineup, standard blind-spot sections in the side mirrors, and the MyLink touchscreen. The LT also gains several standard convenience features, including cruise control, USB audio, Bluetooth audio streaming, and remote start.