Chevrolet will offer customers a chance to spec-out their Sonics when the cars arrive this fall — Z-Spec them, that is.
After displaying the Z-Spec accessory line at the recent SEMA and Detroit auto shows, Chevy will make the options reality on the 2012 Sonic. The idea is to allow small-car buyers to customize their subcompacts with a degree of flair. Complete "black-out" and "white-out" packages will be offered and will be on display at the New York auto show.
To create a sporty flare, Z-Spec will offer body-colored ground effects to enhance the fascia and rocker panels, mirror caps, 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels, a grille accent and a rear spoiler. The parts will be available a la carte or as a complete package and sold at dealerships. Chevy declined to reveal pricing but said the accessories will be affordable for the Sonic's target market, which is 20-to-29-year-olds.
"We think Z-Spec is a very important next step for Chevrolet as we broaden our small-car portfolio," marketing executive Margaret Brooks said at a press event.
The Sonic replaces the Korean-built Aveo in Chevy's small-car line and will be assembled in Michigan. The Sonic will come equipped with a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder rated at 138 horsepower and 148 pounds feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. A naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter four-banger pushing out 135 horsepower and 123 pounds feet of torque is paired with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.
The Sonic slots in between the Spark and the Cruze in Chevrolet's lineup and will come in four-door sedan and five-door hatch variants.
