2015 Chevrolet Sonic LS

The Sonic is Chevrolet's subcompact, offered as a hatchback or sedan for 2015. It handles nimbly around town, though the steering feels a bit light at highway speeds. The cabin feels roomier up front than you'd expect, but rear legroom is tight for adults. Many owners report trouble-free miles well past 100,000 with routine maintenance. A manual transmission and steel wheels distinguish the LS, the base Sonic that skips the LT's nicer cloth seats and power accessories. Its 1.8L I4 makes 138 horsepower and pairs with the five-speed manual, which makes the most of the modest power around town. The LS rides on 15-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, so expect a slightly firmer feel over bumps than the LTZ's larger alloys.