So what is it with GM/Chevrolet, not puting a different engine in the RS? According to info I got all they're doing is tweeking the trans. ratio to upgrade the powertrain. I initally wondered why they didn turbo-charge the 1.8 for the LTZ or new RS, but now Buick has a turbocharged 2.0 for their Cruze platform. Why if the engine is already developed doesn't Chevrolet put it into the Sonic RS? It would really improve the platform if you're looking for performance.
RS powertrain upgrade
- Thread starter mdwitte
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Opticon
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To compete efficiently within the subcompact segment. As soon as they put a bigger motor in a sonic and price it into the next range they are competing with themselves.
The biggest threat to Sonic RS sales is the Fiesta ST, and a bigger motor isn't the way to compete in the subcompact car segment... it's value for money and the RS has it.
The biggest threat to Sonic RS sales is the Fiesta ST, and a bigger motor isn't the way to compete in the subcompact car segment... it's value for money and the RS has it.
Johnny Alien
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The biggest threat to the RS is the LTZ.
laborsmith
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Without any exception I can think of for Chevy RS = Appearance. Even John Buttermore says the rear discs are there for the appearance not for improving performance.
In the same vein, SS = Performance. Sometimes appearance improvements are part of an SS package, but for the most part even those can be related to performance.
I agree with RS Turbo, it just takes me more words than it takes him.
Laborsmith
In the same vein, SS = Performance. Sometimes appearance improvements are part of an SS package, but for the most part even those can be related to performance.
I agree with RS Turbo, it just takes me more words than it takes him.
Laborsmith
laborsmith
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I do not see the LTZ as being a threat to the RS, mainly because by projecting 4000 vehicles Chevy is catering to a niche that would likely not consider the LTZ, but would consider an LT then spending the money difference to make the LT more of a sport compact than a luxury compact. (I know: sub!).
Laborsmith
Laborsmith
Johnny Alien
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Sure but the RS is just cosmetic changes as well minus the transmission tweak. You can get close to the experience for alot less. It's really a trim package.
RS Turbo
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I wouldn't say alot less. the price difference from an LTZ to a RS is not bad at all for what you get. Suspension parts alone to drop the vehicle would cost almost 1/2 of the price difference.
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laborsmith
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To get back to the powertrain subject: I do not see GM allowing the Verano 2.0T to be dropped into the Sonic. I did at one time until the announcement of the new 1.6T, which is scheduled to go into production in Europe in December and to come to the US about two years later. That would mean at the earliest a Spring 2015 1.6T equipped Sonic with a limited production run; but a more likely Fall 2015 for the 2016 model year. This engine is specifically planned to go into the Sonic (thus no 2.0T) and is not planned to go into the Cruze (upsetting some but not me).
Laborsmith
Laborsmith
Johnny Alien
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Not offensive at all. I like the RS package alot but have been open about the fact that I think it's overpriced. I would have loved to see more of an SS spec with more power for that price. I don't mean to come across as harsh on the package itself.
laborsmith
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When the 1.6T goes into the Sonic, I expect a $1000 hit, minimum.
Laborsmith
Laborsmith
laborsmith
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Is it the 21st of December already?
Laborsmith
Laborsmith
Johnny Alien
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The 1.6T would be fantastic. I actually think they should throw one of the new GM tune kits onto the RS out of the gate.
