2013 Chevy Sonic LT: Review, Specs, & Reliability

2013 Chevy Sonic LT: Review, Specs, & Reliability

If you're in the market for a fuel-efficient and affordable compact car, the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT might be on your radar. This model year offers a blend of practicality, modern features, and a touch of fun. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the details of the 2013 Sonic LT, covering everything from its performance and fuel economy to its interior features and potential reliability concerns.

What is the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT?

The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic LT is a subcompact car available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. It's positioned as a step-up trim from the base LS model, offering a few more creature comforts and features. The Sonic is designed to compete with other small cars like the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, and Toyota Yaris.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Engine Options

The 2013 Sonic LT comes with two engine options:

• 1.8-liter Four-Cylinder: This is the standard engine, producing 138 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
• 1.4-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: An optional upgrade, this engine also produces 138 horsepower but offers a higher 148 lb-ft of torque. It's available with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

Driving Experience

In our testing, the 1.8-liter engine provides adequate power for city driving, but the 1.4-liter turbo offers a more engaging experience, especially on the highway. The turbo engine's extra torque makes for quicker acceleration and easier passing. Both engines are relatively refined for this class, with minimal noise and vibration. — Micah Parsons: What The Cowboys Gain & Lose

The Sonic's handling is nimble and responsive, making it fun to drive around town. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps without feeling floaty. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a strong selling point for the 2013 Sonic. EPA estimates are as follows:

• 1.8-liter (Manual): 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
• 1.8-liter (Automatic): 25 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
• 1.4-liter Turbo (Manual): 29 mpg city / 40 mpg highway
• 1.4-liter Turbo (Automatic): 27 mpg city / 37 mpg highway

Real-world fuel economy is generally in line with these estimates, making the Sonic a good choice for budget-conscious drivers. A study by the EPA found that the 1.4-liter turbo with the manual transmission offered some of the best fuel economy in its class, even outperforming some hybrid models in certain driving conditions. — Football Game Today: Schedule, Updates & Info

Interior and Features

Cabin Design and Quality

The 2013 Sonic LT's interior is surprisingly well-designed for a subcompact car. The materials are mostly hard plastics, but they have a pleasant texture and appearance. The overall layout is modern and functional, with intuitive controls and a clear instrument panel.

The LT trim adds some nice touches, such as cloth upholstery with upgraded trim, power windows and locks, and air conditioning. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. The rear seats are a bit tight for adults, but they're adequate for shorter trips. — How Many Days Until February 17? Calculate The Exact Date

Technology and Features

The 2013 Sonic LT comes standard with a decent array of technology features, including:

• Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen
• Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming
• USB port
• Auxiliary audio input
• Satellite radio
• Six-speaker audio system

The MyLink system is relatively easy to use, with large icons and a responsive touchscreen. It allows you to stream music from your smartphone, make hands-free calls, and access certain apps. However, it's worth noting that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available on this model year.

Cargo Space

Cargo space varies depending on the body style:

• Sedan: 14.0 cubic feet in the trunk
• Hatchback: 19.0 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 47.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

The hatchback offers significantly more cargo-carrying capability, making it a more practical choice for those who frequently haul larger items. The rear seats fold down easily to create a flat load floor.

Safety

Safety Ratings

The 2013 Chevy Sonic performed well in safety tests:

• NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): 5-Star Overall Safety Rating
• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Top Safety Pick

These ratings indicate that the Sonic provides a high level of crash protection.

Safety Features

The 2013 Sonic LT comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

• Ten airbags
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Anti-lock brakes
• OnStar emergency communication system

Reliability and Common Issues

Reliability Ratings

Overall, the 2013 Chevy Sonic has average reliability for its class. Some sources, like J.D. Power, give it a below-average rating, while others, like Consumer Reports, rate it as average. It's important to note that reliability can vary depending on the specific engine and model year.

Common Issues

Some of the most commonly reported issues with the 2013 Sonic include:

• Cooling System Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the cooling system, such as coolant leaks and overheating. This is more prevalent in the 1.4-liter turbo engine.
• Transmission Problems: There have been reports of transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission. This can manifest as rough shifting, slipping, or complete failure.
• Electrical Problems: Some owners have experienced electrical issues, such as problems with the infotainment system, power windows, and door locks.

Before purchasing a used 2013 Sonic, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic to check for any potential problems. Also, be sure to review the vehicle's maintenance history to see if any of these issues have been addressed.

Pricing and Value

Original MSRP

When new, the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT had a starting MSRP of around $15,000 to $17,000, depending on the body style and options.

Used Prices

As of 2023, used prices for a 2013 Sonic LT typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. This makes it an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.

Value Proposition

The 2013 Sonic LT offers a good value proposition, especially as a used car. It provides a comfortable ride, decent fuel economy, and a good amount of features for the price. However, it's important to be aware of the potential reliability issues and factor that into your decision.

Alternatives to the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT

If you're considering the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT, you might also want to check out these alternatives:

• Honda Fit: The Fit is known for its excellent fuel economy, spacious interior, and versatile cargo-carrying capabilities.
• Ford Fiesta: The Fiesta offers a sporty driving experience and a stylish interior.
• Toyota Yaris: The Yaris is a reliable and fuel-efficient subcompact car.
• Hyundai Accent: The Accent offers a good value for the money, with a long list of features and a comfortable ride.

Pros and Cons of the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT

To summarize, here's a list of the pros and cons of the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT:

Pros

• Good fuel economy
• Nimble handling
• Comfortable ride
• Decent amount of features for the price
• Available in sedan and hatchback body styles
• Strong safety ratings

Cons

• Potential reliability issues
• Rear seats can be tight for adults
• MyLink system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

FAQ

Is the 2013 Chevy Sonic a reliable car?

The 2013 Chevy Sonic has average reliability for its class. Some sources rate it as below average, while others rate it as average. It's important to be aware of potential issues like cooling system and transmission problems.

What are the common problems with the 2013 Chevy Sonic?

Common problems include cooling system leaks and overheating (especially in the 1.4-liter turbo engine), transmission issues (particularly with the automatic), and electrical problems.

How many miles per gallon does the 2013 Chevy Sonic get?

Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and transmission. The 1.8-liter engine gets around 25-26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while the 1.4-liter turbo can achieve up to 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway with the manual transmission.

Is the 2013 Chevy Sonic LT a good car?

The 2013 Chevy Sonic LT can be a good car, especially as a used option. It offers good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a decent amount of features for the price. However, it's important to consider its potential reliability issues.

What is the difference between the Sonic LS and LT?

The LT trim is a step up from the base LS model. It adds features like cloth upholstery with upgraded trim, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen.

Is the Chevy Sonic being discontinued?

Yes, Chevrolet discontinued the Sonic after the 2020 model year.

What is the resale value of a 2013 Chevy Sonic LT?

The resale value of a 2013 Chevy Sonic LT typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location.

Conclusion

The 2013 Chevy Sonic LT is a decent subcompact car that offers good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a fair amount of features. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential reliability issues before making a purchase. If you're considering a used 2013 Sonic LT, be sure to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic and review its maintenance history.

If you're looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient small car, the 2013 Sonic LT might be worth considering. But, if reliability is your top priority, exploring alternatives like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris might be a better choice. To see how the Sonic stacks up against the competition in person, schedule a test drive at your local used car dealership today!