By: Michael Doan
When looking at both, the Cruze and Sonic, you wouldn’t expect such refinement and luxury in vehicles that cost less than $30,000. We took out both of these cars for the day and were surprised how peppy and fun-to-drive these vehicles are. With the Sonic having the the base 1.8L engine, it managed to keep up with the more powerful 1.4L Turbo found in the Cruze. The 1.8L has a rating of 138hp and 125lb-ft of torque, while the 1.4L Turbo has 138hp and 148lb-ft of torque.
Sonic 1.8L Engine
Cruze 1.4L Turbo Engine
Fuel economy numbers are a big selling factor for both these vehicles. The Sonic acheives 25mpg in the city and 35mpg on the highway, while the Cruze does a bit better being rated at 26mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, due to the 1.4l Turbo engine.
Both the Cruze and Sonic have sufficient interior room and more than we were expecting. With myself being 6ft 4in and was more than pleased with the legroom and headroom in both. The Sonic has more of an upright seating position which I prefered over dropping down into the Cruze. That being said the Cruze has a better seating position and wouldn’t be so bad to go on a long road trip with. When taking a look at the entertainment that comes with these two, you will quickly learn that Chevy has upped their game. The standard system we had in the Sonic was more than adequate for most buyers but I found that the MyLink system in the Cruze was just that much better. The 7 inch touch screen was very easy to use and responded quickly.
Sonic Interior
Cruze Interior
The Sonic came decently equipped and has a sticker price of $22,060. Sonics start at $13,995 for a base LS model and can get up to $26,000 for an LTZ.
The Cruze we tested was nicely equipped and has a sticker price of $28,210. Cruzes start at $15,995 for a base LS model and can get up to $27,000 for an LTZ. Our tester came equipped with most options, including leather and the optional RS package which I think makes the car standout over the competition.
With Employee pricing and GM’s Student Bonus right now these vehicles can be had for thousands less and great vehicles for first time buyers.
Overall we really enjoyed these cars. What’s that old saying? It’s more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow, these little cars do just that.
Links:
2014 Chevrolet Sonic LT
http://www.highlandgm.com/new/vehicle/2014-chevrolet-sonic-id529956.htm
2014 Chevrolet Cruze LT
http://www.highlandgm.com/new/vehicle/2014-chevrolet-cruze-id507978.htm
