GM says is really nothing in common between Chevrolet Sonic and Aveo

There’s a lot to say about the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic but what the automaker wants to emphasize is that it isn’t anything like the Aveo, the brand's previous subcompact. Margaret Brooks, Chevrolet product marketing director, said that Sonic is an all-new car with an “all-new architecture, all-new powertrain, all-new name.” Chevrolet said that the Sonic is described in one key word: Refinement. Chevrolet developed a stiff body structure using high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels. Joaquin Nuno-Whelan, vehicle line director and chief engineer, said that the company set it to have the “right stiffness” so that the driver will have a “solid, quiet feel” as the car goes down the street.

Chevrolet took some cues from Buick to lessen or cut certain noises from the passenger compartment, according to Autonews. Noise and vibration are minimized with the use of hydraulic engine mounts. Nuno-Whelan said that an acoustic dash mat together with an acoustic package under the carpeting and over the headliner is part of its strategy to lead the segment when it comes to achieving quiet. He said that triple door seals are used where needed. In addition, liquid-applied sound deadener is used in the wheel wells and other locations. The Sonic also has thicker windshield and window glass. The Sonic is built on the global subcompact vehicle platform developed by General Motors.

The U.S. model range features a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. When it comes to design, the Sonic comes with dual front grille openings – a styling element expected in Chevrolet's cars. Another distinctive design element is the exposed, round headlamps. They don’t have a lens cover and they obviously took inspiration from the lighting found on motorcycles. The interior has a motorcycle theme carried by the instrument cluster. A round analog speedometer is set within an asymmetrical LCD readout with a big digital display.[via : 4wheelsnews]

Photo : 2012 Chevrolet Sonic