2015 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2015 Chevrolet Sonic

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.

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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

Powertrain
The LTZ gains the 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as standard equipment. There is no lineup-wide engine change.

2015 Chevrolet Sonic specs and features by trim

Feature
2015 Chevrolet SonicLS0 in stock
2015 Chevrolet SonicLT0 in stock
2015 Chevrolet SonicRS0 in stock
2015 Chevrolet SonicLTZ0 in stock
Engine4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 1.8 Liter4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 1.8 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-SpdAutomatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd / Manual, 6-SpdAutomatic, 6-SpdAutomatic, 6-Spd
DrivetrainFWDFWDFWDFWD
Fuel TypeGasGasGasGas
MPG City25–26 mpg25–29 mpg25 mpg27 mpg
MPG Highway35 mpg35–40 mpg33 mpg37 mpg
Horsepower138 hp138 hp138 hp138 hp
Torque125 lb-ft125–148 lb-ft148 lb-ft148 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo14.9–19 cu-ft14.9–19 cu-ft14.9–19 cu-ft14.9–19 cu-ft
Rear Legroom34.6 in34.6 in34.6 in34.6 in
Seats5555
Doors4444
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

How the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic compares

The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic is a light-update year, not a redesign. The main change is a standard 7-inch touchscreen for the midrange LT trim.

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.

4.1
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
(174 reviews)
5 stars (71)
4 stars (60)
3 stars (34)
2 stars (8)
1 star (1)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

No rating

“is a good car perfect for a couple with no kids and very efficient and perfect for small parking spots.”

IBIsaias B.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic LT 4 Dr Hatchback/Sedan
No rating

“I am overall happy with my purchase but with my family size I would like a bigger car.”

EGElaina G.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic LT 4 Dr Hatchback/Sedan

“Issues with the warranty. Had to pay out-of-pocket to make repairs. Wasn't worth the fight.”

KMKris M.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic LT 4 Dr Hatchback/Sedan