Chevrolet has revealed a sporty version of its Aveo at the New York International Auto Show. Called the Sonic Z-Spec, the car ditches the European Aveo name but gains a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine.
The engine produces 140hp and comes with a six-speed manual gearbox. Chevy has not released any performance figures as yet, but insiders say it will cover 0-100km/h in around eight seconds while using 7.0 litres/100km (40mpg average economy).
Customers for the Sonic Z-Spec will be able to choose between four-door saloon and five-door hatchback body styles in the USA. Chevy plans to offer a huge range of options to allow the customer to personalise the Sonic. Options will include a body kit, rear spoiler, front grille, graphics and alloy wheels.
"Customisation is particularly important to the customers we believe will gravitate to the Sonic," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing.
There are no plans at the moment to offer the Z-Spec to Irish customers, but Chevrolet says it is possible that a hot hatch version of the Aveo could be offered in Europe if demand in the USA is positive.