What can we expect from 2011 Aveo (Sonic) hatchback?

GM India’s entry level babies – Beat and Spark are doing great in the Indian market constantly clocking 2,500+ units every month. However, if you want a bit of space at the back, certainly you need something bigger.

The next ‘big’ car in the portfolio is the Aveo U-VA which is not doing so well. Its outdated technology combined with really dull looks means it is a bit of a damp squib in the B segment hatchback market. GM has already replaced the old U-VA in most markets with the Sonic Hatchback which debuted at the 2011 Detroit Motorshow. So what can you expect in this rival?

To start with, the old boring looks have been completely redesigned to make the Sonic hatchback look more youthful and stylish. The new Sonic takes a lot of its design cues from the Beat. It gets an aggressive front grill with giant circular, double barrel headlamps. We also get to characteristic rear door handle in C pillar (which is also present on the Beat).

On the interior front also, the new Sonic looks much like the Beat. You get a 3 spoke steering wheel along with superbike-like instrument cluster. It is equipped with Bluetooth, a USB hook up and an auxiliary input jack. The key difference is that the Sonic is a much bigger hatchback so your fifth buddy can also tag along.

On the performance front, we expect a Smartech petrol unit and a XSDE diesel engine with a VGT. Nothing can be said about the power and torque because they will be re-tuned for the Indian streets. But looking at GM India’s latest cars such as the Cruze and the Beat, we can expect a hefty dose of power and torque. Both Automatic and Manual transmissions are available. We also hope GM will also continue its class leading 3 year warranty on the Sonic hatchback.

The Sonic hatchback was recently launched in China in the price range of 81.800 - 118.000 yuan. This roughly equates to Rs 5,72,600 – Rs 8,26,000.

The Sonic hatchback is expected in India during 2012-13. These cars are definitely on GM India' business plan.

What do you think about the Sonic hatchback? Can it take on the bigwigs that dominate the Indian Hatchback market?

Image source - Auto.Sohu.com