today's cars: Chevrolet Unveils 2012 Sonic in Both Sedan and Hatchback Body Styles

General Motors will be showing off the Aveo's North American market replacement in the form of the all-new Sonic sub-compact at the Detroit Show later today. We've already seen the Sonic five-door hatchback, which will continue to use the Aveo moniker in Europe and other international markets, but the US automaker also released the first photos of the four-door sedan model.

“The all-new Chevrolet Sonic blends the practicality of a small car with the passion for driving that Chevrolet vehicles like the Corvette are known for,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “Its combination of great design, fun driving experience and the latest connectivity features create a serious competitor with a fun spirit.”

Aside from the non-necessary associations with the Corvette, GM claims the sedan model offers segment-best trunk capacity that is greater than most compact cars, adding that both body styles of the Sonic offer better rear-seat roominess than Ford's new Fiesta.

The Sonic will be powered by the same 1,8-liter naturally aspirated and 1.4-liter turbo Ecotec petrol motors found on the Chevrolet Cruze in the U.S. The 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec pushes out 138HP and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 rpm and 4,900 rpm, and can be paired to a six-speed manual. The 1.8-liter unit produces 135HP and 123 lb.-ft. of torque (167 Nm) at 3,800 rpm., and can be hooked up to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

Available features depending on the model include XM Satellite Radio, 10 airbags, antilock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, OnStar with Automatic Crash Response, and a choice of alloy wheels including 17-inch rims shod in sport tires.

Production of the North American Sonic at GM's Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, will begin later in 2011.

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