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2017 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic gets its first major refresh, led by redesigned front and rear styling. Every trim also gains a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a rear camera.
About the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic
1st generation Sonic (2012-2020), mid-cycle refresh year.
Chevrolet positions the Sonic as a small car that tries to feel more useful and more connected than a stripped-down budget commuter. The big themes are easy city size, a choice of sedan or hatchback, better-than-basic infotainment, and a cabin/cargo layout that makes daily driving simpler. Against other subcompacts, the Sonic’s identity leans on smartphone-friendly tech, available turbo power, and a roomier, more flexible feel than many low-price rivals.
The LS is the simple commuter, while the LT adds everyday comforts such as cruise control, power windows, heated mirrors, and upgraded cloth seats. The top Premier trim pairs a turbo engine with heated front seats, keyless entry and start, a power driver’s seat, and synthetic leather upholstery.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The Premier’s 1.4-liter turbo engine is paired with a standard 6-speed manual transmission; an automatic transmission remains part of the lineup.
Styling
Chevrolet redesigned the hood, grille, headlights, taillamps, and bumpers. Projector-style headlights and LED daytime running lights are part of the refreshed look.
Safety
A rear vision camera became standard across the lineup.
Tech
A 7-inch touchscreen became standard on every Sonic, bringing Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Chevrolet also reworked the gauge and information-display area.
2017 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 |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Manual, 6-Spd / Manual, 5-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24–25 mpg | 24–28 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34–38 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 125 lb-ft | 125–148 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9 cu-ft | 14.9–19 cu-ft | 14.9–19 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 | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic a full redesign?
No. The 2017 Sonic is a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation model, not a full redesign. Its exterior styling, dashboard display area, and standard technology received meaningful updates.
Does every 2017 Chevrolet Sonic have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Every 2017 Sonic has a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Is a rear camera standard on the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
Yes. A rear vision camera became standard across the 2017 Sonic lineup, including the entry-level LS.
What happened to the Sonic LTZ and RS for 2017?
Premier replaced LTZ as the top trim for 2017. RS was no longer a standalone trim; its sporty appearance and equipment shifted to a package for Sonic sedans.
What is the main difference between the 2017 and 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
The 2017 Sonic has refreshed front and rear styling, a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a standard rear camera. It also replaces the LTZ name with Premier and moves RS from a standalone trim to a sedan package.
2017 Chevrolet Sonic Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic.
4.1
2017 Chevrolet Sonic
(240 reviews)
“Very comfortable, dependable and stylish auto. Solid and quiet with great performance”
“Made in Michigan, great price, good handling, nice features for the price. Great, reliable car for a college student. Will probably buy another for my next daughter.”