Chevy Sees a Big Jump in Small Car Sales for the Cruze and Sonic

Chevy may be known for tough, big vehicles like the Suburban SUV and the Silverado pickup, but recently it’s been gaining serious traction in the small car market. Compact and small car sales have been up 229% since last year, an increase that Chevy attributes to the growing number of millennials who can purchase vehicles — a group that prioritizes both fuel economy and value.

The Chevy Cruze and the Sonic, both members of the small car class, have been popular around Bradenton and Sarasota, and are available for a test drive at Cox Chevy!

The Age of the Chevy Compact

Just because they favor value-priced vehicles doesn’t mean that millennials are willing to settle for cheap cars. Both the Sonic and the Cruze are outfitted with comfortable interiors, constructed with fine materials, as well as equipped with some of today’s best features. Depending on the vehicle and trim level, this equipment can include:

• Chevrolet MyLink with navigation
• Bluetooth handsfree calling
• A Pioneer premium 9-speaker audio system
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• Auxiliary input for audio devices
• 2 auxiliary power outlets located in the center console
• A 60/40 split folding rear seat

Performance and Fuel Savings That Are Tough to Ignore

The larger Cruze is available with two different engine options, either a 1.8L or a 1.4L turbo. When you pair the turbo engine with a manual transmission ECO model, drivers can boost fuel economy to an EPA-estimated 42 mpg on the highway. With the special diesel model, drivers can get an incredible 46 mpg on the highway, the best of any non-hybrid vehicle.

As for the smaller Sonic, which comes at a lower price tag, drivers also have the option between similar 1.8L and 1.4L engines. Likewise, when select models are equipped with the turbocharged engine, drivers can get an EPA estimated 40 mpg on the highway. Not only does the turbo option give you better fuel efficiency, but drivers also get much more torque, which can lend to better acceleration and handling. Not bad for a little guy, huh?