“is a good car perfect for a couple with no kids and very efficient and perfect for small parking spots.”
2015 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is mostly a carryover model. The main change is that the upscale LTZ trim gets the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine as standard equipment.
About the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic
1st generation U.S. Sonic (2012-2016), fourth model year, pre-refresh.
Chevrolet positions the Sonic as a small car that feels bigger and more substantial than many subcompacts. Its core appeal is easy city size paired with a roomy cabin, strong crash-safety messaging, and a choice of sedan practicality or hatchback versatility. The model’s main differentiators are its solid road feel, available turbo power, and a feature set that aims to make an entry-level car feel less stripped-down than many rivals.
The lineup ranges from the straightforward LS and comfort-focused LT to the better-equipped LTZ and sportier RS. The LTZ pairs its turbo engine with a 7-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, and heated front seats, while the RS adds a lowered sport suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and unique 17-inch wheels.
What changed, by category
2015 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, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd / Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-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 | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35–40 mpg | 33 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9–19 cu-ft | 14.9–19 cu-ft | 14.9–19 cu-ft | 14.9–19 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 | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic?
The biggest change is the LTZ trim's standard 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. The rest of the Sonic lineup is largely unchanged from 2014.
Is the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic a redesign?
No. The 2015 Sonic remains part of the first generation and keeps the same basic styling, body structure, sedan and hatchback body styles, and main trim lineup.
Does the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ have a turbo engine?
Yes. For 2015, the LTZ comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
How is the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic different from the 2014 model?
The 2015 Sonic is very similar to the 2014 model, but the LTZ gains the 1.4-liter turbo engine as standard equipment. There are no major lineup-wide styling, safety, technology, or structural updates.
Did the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic receive new safety or touchscreen technology?
No major lineup-wide safety or infotainment hardware changes arrived for 2015. Existing equipment carries over, including 10 airbags on the LS and a 7-inch touchscreen and rearview camera on the LTZ.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic.
“I am overall happy with my purchase but with my family size I would like a bigger car.”
“Issues with the warranty. Had to pay out-of-pocket to make repairs. Wasn't worth the fight.”