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Chevrolet launches the Sonic in Malaysia

Naza Quest aims to take a fair slice of the crowded market with its new Euro-tuned sedan/hatchback.


Buyers in the B-segment now have yet another car to consider next to the usual suspects, with Chevrolet being the latest brand to join the fray with its new Sonic. Available in both sedan and hatchback forms the Chevrolet Sonic is primed to challenge the Ford Fiesta head-on; Naza Quest having a sales target of over 400 units per month.

Made in Thailand, the Sonic effectively replaces Chevrolet's long discontinued Aveo model. Priced competitively against its class rivals — at RM76,888 for the sedan and RM78,888 for the hatch - it slots in well below the C-segment Cruze.

Under the hood lies a new 1.4-litre Ecotec engine with 98bhp and 130Nm of torque, matched to a 6-speed automatic gearbox (complete a Focus-like gear toggle switch). Its gets from a standstill to 100km/h in 12.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 175km/h. Not exactly exciting, yes, but that's par for the course in this class.

Sold only in top-spec LTZ form, the Sonic gets dual airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, plus ABS, EBD and brake assist as standard features. Interior upholstery is fabric, with no leather trim in sight. What deserves attention however is the motorcycle-inspired instrument pod, which houses an analogue rev counter and an all-digital speedometer.

For interested buyers, it's worth noting the car's lengthy 5-year/200,000km warranty and 15,000km service interval. Also, the retail prices above (not on the road) are quoted without insurance and are said to be 'introductory prices' so place your booking soon to avoid a possible price hike in the future.