New Cars 2012: Chevy Sonic

In the 1980s, when super-eco cars started playing a major part in most automaker's lineups, GM did not want to be left out of the fold. The rise of GM's tiny econocar came to fruition in 1985 with the introduction of the Suzuki-built Chevy Sprint. It was available in both 3 and 5 door guises, and neither one was ever "fully loaded" so to speak. In 1989, Chevy introduced the Geo brand, and replaced the Sprint with the Geo Metro. Again, available in 3 and 5 door guises, but now a convertible could be had. When the Geo Metro died in 2002, there was a two year gap until the Aveo came out.
Now, for 2012, this new Sonic replaces the much-loathed Aveo. While the Aveo can be a good car if you don't really care about cars, the Sonic is said to be a good car. The Aveo had major shake at idle, and the whole car felt half-assed in terms of construction, and execution. I haven't set in the new car yet, but I can say while it isn't groundbreaking in terms of style, it doesn't appear to be as cheaply constructed as the Aveo before it. For one, all the panels are at least the same color. No paint mismatch to be found, anywhere, which is honestly a big step up from the Aveo. Another nicety is that then even its lowest trim, I don't think you can get anything but wheels on the Sonic. Again, that move shows GM is taking its small cars seriously.
While I have never ridden in one so I can't comment on the interior quality, (they just came out)but I would hope it's better than its predecessor. I mean, it should be. After all, they claimed to have invested "big money" into making sure the Sonic was a better car.
As far as motivation goes, the Aveo was powered by a lackluster 1.6L four that coughed up 108 horses and fed them to the driver through a four speed auto or a very vague five speed manual. The new Sonic, however, has a turbo 1.4L four with 138 horse. Power is fed through your choice of a five speed manual, or a six speed automatic. If you're wary of turbocharged engines, there is also a non turbo 1.8L that makes roughly the same power as the smaller turbo engine. Like its turbocharged brother, the normally aspirated car is available with a five speed stick or a six speed auto. Apparently both combos are good for at least 35 MPG highway. Honestly, I was expecting better. A Hyundai Elantra gets 40 MPG highway, so does the sportier Hyundai Veloster. The Mazda 3 gets 40 MPG highway as well, and all three of these cars are more acclimated to longer distance driving than the small Chevy.
While this new Sonic is a great step forward, it does indeed show that GM, who begged for a bailout, is obviously not serious about fuel economy. Yet.