“I love my 2020 Chevy Sonic. Only hate lack of options with automatic playing music on iPhones when starting the vehicle.”
2020 Chevrolet Sonic: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic is that a 6-speed automatic transmission became standard on every trim. Otherwise, the Sonic carried over without a redesign or major styling, safety, or technology updates.
About the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic
First-generation Sonic (U.S. model years 2012-2020), fourth year after the 2017 exterior and technology refresh, and final U.S. model year.
Chevrolet positioned the Sonic as a small, city-friendly car with more usable space and technology than its compact footprint suggests. Sedan and hatchback versions combined a responsive turbo engine, easy maneuverability, smartphone-compatible touchscreen infotainment, and a comfortable ride. Its main distinction was the mix of everyday practicality and standard phone integration, with the hatchback adding flexible cargo space and a sportier appearance.
The 2020 Sonic was sold as a straightforward compact car, with the LS as a sedan and the LT and Premier represented in sedan and hatchback form. Every trim had a 138-hp turbo engine and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. LT added practical equipment such as cruise control and power windows, while Premier brought heated front seats, keyless entry and start, remote start, and synthetic leather seating.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The 6-speed automatic transmission became standard across the LS, LT, and Premier lineups. Every retail trim paired it with the existing 138-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive.
2020 Chevrolet Sonic specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, ECOTEC, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, ECOTEC, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, ECOTEC, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 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 | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic compared with the 2019 model?
The key change is that the 6-speed automatic transmission became standard across every 2020 Sonic trim. There was no redesign or major model-wide styling, safety, or infotainment update.
Does the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic have a manual transmission?
No. Every retail 2020 Sonic LS, LT, and Premier used a 6-speed automatic transmission with the 138-hp 1.4-liter turbo engine and front-wheel drive.
Was 2020 the final model year for the Chevrolet Sonic in the United States?
Yes. The 2020 Sonic was the final U.S. model year, and Chevrolet ended U.S. production in October 2020 without a 2021 successor.
Did the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic receive new styling or technology?
No. The 2020 Sonic did not receive a meaningful model-wide styling or technology update. Its 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto carried over.
Is the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic a major update over the 2019 model?
No. The 2020 Sonic is a light update rather than a major one. Its main distinction is the standard automatic transmission; most styling, safety, and technology equipment carried over.
2020 Chevrolet Sonic Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic.
4.2
2020 Chevrolet Sonic
(173 reviews)
“I like the style and the room for passengers. I also like amenities blue toothed the safety features.”
“Nice little car for the city. Easily fits in parking spaces. Got the RS package, so it has everything I need. Wish it had more power, but it isn't horrible. My only complaint is that the trunk hold open torsion bar is too weak when parked on an incline.”