CHEVROLET SONIC 1.4 : Sonic youth with a presence

Subcompact saloons are generally designed to be efficient, reliable and spacious for their size.

Attributes such as design and driveability are not very high on their priority list. After all, buyers in this segment typically see cars as nothing more than machines to get them from point A to point B.

But for younger buyers searching for a subcompact with some road presence and above-average driving characteristics, Chevrolet might have what they are looking for - the Sonic saloon.

Unlike its key rival, the Toyota Vios, which tries to look grown-up with its styling, the Sonic has a youthful design.

The Chevy has an aggressive snout and "fierce" headlights that look ready to stare down other vehicles. The figure- eight tail-lamps, however, appear rather dated.

Totally modern, on the other hand, is the Chevy's cabin, which really "pops" with its standard two-tone colour scheme.

There are also turbine-like air- conditioning vents (on the extreme left and right of the dashboard), which have a nifty opening/closing function. It is too bad that the centre vents were not given the same funky treatment.

Also unique in the subcompact segment is the Sonic's half-analogue, half-digital instrument cluster, which is sure to entertain boyracers. If only it were better integrated with the dashboard.

At the back, legroom is adequate for occupants up to 1.75m tall and there is plenty of space for feet under the front seats. In addition, a trio of three-point seatbelts are provided for better safety.

Powering the car is a 1.4-litre motor with a modest 100bhp and 130Nm.

Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Sonic goes from rest to 100kmh in 12.9 seconds.

Though a leisurely performer, this Chevy offers decent pick-up at low to moderate speeds, which makes it well suited to city-driving.

The gearbox includes a manual override button, but its odd shape means you cannot "feel" whether you are about to shift up or down. At any rate, the engine sounds wheezy when the tachometer needle passes the 4,000rpm mark, so engaging the said function is not rewarding.

What this vehicle does really well, however, is taking corners. It is arguably the best-handling subcompact in the segment. Push this small saloon into a sweeping bend and you would be surprised that there is actually more grip than expected. The ride is well-tuned too.

Another surprise is the steering, which is accurate and well-weighted.

Too bad the Sonic comes with rear drum brakes. Discs would improve the stopping power considerably.

With its competitive pricing, attractive styling and good handling, the Chevy Sonic deserves consideration by budget-saloon buyers. It may not be supersonic, but it certainly exceeds expectations.