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Chevrolet Sonic Sedan 1.4 (A) vs Nissan Almera 1.5 (A) vs Toyota Vios 1.5 (A)
30 Jan 2015|29,348 views
Compact sedans are one of the best ways to get the most 'car' for your money. Essentially, they can perform motoring tasks as well as their bigger and pricier siblings by ferrying up to five people while carrying a car load of shopping.
The Sonic Sedan is the latest car to enter the segment, and we put it up against some of the strongest rivals in its class - the Nissan Almera and the Toyota Vios.
Like its stablemate Spark, the Sonic made it to the big screen by starring in the movie Transformers 4 - in a spruced-up RS rally car guise
Exterior
You can easily tell that the Sonic is the most attention-grabbing of the lot. With an aggressive front snout and quad 'big eyes', it makes the Almera and the Vios look tame in comparison.
That doesn't mean the Sonic wins the beauty pageant hands down because we are pretty sure that the Vios will garner an equivalent, if not greater, share of likes from voters.
The Sonic Sedan is the latest car to enter the segment, and we put it up against some of the strongest rivals in its class - the Nissan Almera and the Toyota Vios.
Exterior
You can easily tell that the Sonic is the most attention-grabbing of the lot. With an aggressive front snout and quad 'big eyes', it makes the Almera and the Vios look tame in comparison.
That doesn't mean the Sonic wins the beauty pageant hands down because we are pretty sure that the Vios will garner an equivalent, if not greater, share of likes from voters.
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The Vios, which has been on sale here since one and a half years ago, has hardly aged at all. Parked next to the Sonic, it has a more agreeable styling that is easier on the eye.
On the other hand, the Almera stays conservative with a decent, unobtrusive look. But we have to say it isn't the best-looking in Nissan's stable - or in this group test.
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Interior
The Almera quickly recoups lost scores from the physical contest with its superior cabin. The two-tone interior with tan leather seats is a premium touch in its segment. The Almera is also roomier than the rest, especially in terms of rear leg room.
It is also the only car here to feature keyless entry and engine start, while you'll still have to fumble with key fobs in the other two cars.
Almera's cabin feels the most premium of the lot and offers the most room for occupants, with no trouble fitting three adults comfortably at the rear
Like the Almera, the Sonic also makes use of contrasting colours to liven up the mood in its cabin. Drivers will appreciate the cool-looking digital speedometer, which is much easier to read on the move.
The Almera quickly recoups lost scores from the physical contest with its superior cabin. The two-tone interior with tan leather seats is a premium touch in its segment. The Almera is also roomier than the rest, especially in terms of rear leg room.
It is also the only car here to feature keyless entry and engine start, while you'll still have to fumble with key fobs in the other two cars.
Like the Almera, the Sonic also makes use of contrasting colours to liven up the mood in its cabin. Drivers will appreciate the cool-looking digital speedometer, which is much easier to read on the move.
To match its trendy design, the Sonic boasts a new tech feature that allows users to access their smartphone apps via its multimedia touchscreen interface (called the Navtrak Plus). It is also the only car here to be equipped with a reverse camera.
While still largely practical, the Sonic's rear quarters aren't as spacious as in the Almera and will fit three adults with a slight squeeze.
Sonic (left) has the smallest boot of 422 litres; Almera (centre) offers the largest cargo volume of 490 litres, but is impeded by protruding side walls; Vios' boot (right) has a good balance of design and size with 476 litres
Last but not least, the Vios is closely matched to the Sonic in terms of cabin size, but edges ahead with better choices of materials used and a more robust build quality.
While still largely practical, the Sonic's rear quarters aren't as spacious as in the Almera and will fit three adults with a slight squeeze.
Last but not least, the Vios is closely matched to the Sonic in terms of cabin size, but edges ahead with better choices of materials used and a more robust build quality.
 |
The Drive
Admittedly, these compact sedans aren't the most 'soul-stirring' to drive. But as daily workhorses, they deserve our respect for being humble yet efficient.
The Vios gets first mention with the largest output (in this group) of 107bhp and 141Nm of torque. Not only is it able to deliver peppy sprints off the line, we managed to get a fuel economy of 14.5km/L during our time with the car.
The Almera, on the other hand, manages 99bhp and 134Nm of torque. Compared to the Vios, it feels less eager to work through the revs - especially during overtaking manoeuvres. It will, however, deliver a respectable fuel economy of 13km/L.
Sonic's 1.4-litre (left) is on par with Almera's 1.5-litre unit (centre) with 99bhp, while the Vios' 1.5-litre (right) churns out 107bhp - eight more than its competitors
But what we like best about the Almera is how it feels at the helm. In fact, it feels very much like the Sylphy, with the sharp and lively character of its bigger brother. While the drivetrain isn't as sprightly as we'd like it to be, it feels genuinely refined when cruising at highway speeds.
Like the Almera, the Sonic has 99bhp on offer - but from a smaller 1.4-litre unit. On paper, the Sonic dishes out a 12.9-second century sprint, which is, remarkably, a second quicker than the equally-powerful Almera. The downside is that the unit feels relatively strained when you pedal to the metal.
Admittedly, these compact sedans aren't the most 'soul-stirring' to drive. But as daily workhorses, they deserve our respect for being humble yet efficient.
The Vios gets first mention with the largest output (in this group) of 107bhp and 141Nm of torque. Not only is it able to deliver peppy sprints off the line, we managed to get a fuel economy of 14.5km/L during our time with the car.
The Almera, on the other hand, manages 99bhp and 134Nm of torque. Compared to the Vios, it feels less eager to work through the revs - especially during overtaking manoeuvres. It will, however, deliver a respectable fuel economy of 13km/L.
But what we like best about the Almera is how it feels at the helm. In fact, it feels very much like the Sylphy, with the sharp and lively character of its bigger brother. While the drivetrain isn't as sprightly as we'd like it to be, it feels genuinely refined when cruising at highway speeds.
Like the Almera, the Sonic has 99bhp on offer - but from a smaller 1.4-litre unit. On paper, the Sonic dishes out a 12.9-second century sprint, which is, remarkably, a second quicker than the equally-powerful Almera. The downside is that the unit feels relatively strained when you pedal to the metal.
On a brighter side, the Sonic comes close to both rivals in terms of efficiency with a fuel economy of 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
We like the Sonic particularly for its trendsetting design, both on the outside and in the cabin, which has little trouble attracting the attention of younger buyers. Its less refined engine, however, makes it less desirable than its peers.
Sonic (left) gets a six-speed automatic transmission, the most advanced among the trio, while the Almera (centre) and the Vios (right) stick to more dated four-speed gearboxes
While its interior isn't the most inspiring, the Vios' blend of good looks and efficient drivetrain are traits that car fans (and car buyers alike) will be looking out for.
But for cost-conscious buyers, the Vios' asking price of $117,888 (as of 22nd January 2015) - a handsome $14k premium over the Almera and close to $8k more than the Sonic - may be too much to bear.
With that in mind, the Almera is the closest when it comes to economical motoring without sacrificing comfort and functionality for the family. And those, we think, are traits of a class-leading compact sedan.
Conclusion
We like the Sonic particularly for its trendsetting design, both on the outside and in the cabin, which has little trouble attracting the attention of younger buyers. Its less refined engine, however, makes it less desirable than its peers.
While its interior isn't the most inspiring, the Vios' blend of good looks and efficient drivetrain are traits that car fans (and car buyers alike) will be looking out for.
But for cost-conscious buyers, the Vios' asking price of $117,888 (as of 22nd January 2015) - a handsome $14k premium over the Almera and close to $8k more than the Sonic - may be too much to bear.
With that in mind, the Almera is the closest when it comes to economical motoring without sacrificing comfort and functionality for the family. And those, we think, are traits of a class-leading compact sedan.
Compact sedans are one of the best ways to get the most 'car' for your money. Essentially, they can perform motoring tasks as well as their bigger and pricier siblings by ferrying up to five people while carrying a car load of shopping.
The Sonic Sedan is the latest car to enter the segment, and we put it up against some of the strongest rivals in its class - the Nissan Almera and the Toyota Vios.
Exterior
You can easily tell that the Sonic is the most attention-grabbing of the lot. With an aggressive front snout and quad 'big eyes', it makes the Almera and the Vios look tame in comparison.
That doesn't mean the Sonic wins the beauty pageant hands down because we are pretty sure that the Vios will garner an equivalent, if not greater, share of likes from voters.
The Sonic Sedan is the latest car to enter the segment, and we put it up against some of the strongest rivals in its class - the Nissan Almera and the Toyota Vios.
Exterior
You can easily tell that the Sonic is the most attention-grabbing of the lot. With an aggressive front snout and quad 'big eyes', it makes the Almera and the Vios look tame in comparison.
That doesn't mean the Sonic wins the beauty pageant hands down because we are pretty sure that the Vios will garner an equivalent, if not greater, share of likes from voters.
The Vios, which has been on sale here since one and a half years ago, has hardly aged at all. Parked next to the Sonic, it has a more agreeable styling that is easier on the eye.
On the other hand, the Almera stays conservative with a decent, unobtrusive look. But we have to say it isn't the best-looking in Nissan's stable - or in this group test.
On the other hand, the Almera stays conservative with a decent, unobtrusive look. But we have to say it isn't the best-looking in Nissan's stable - or in this group test.
Interior
The Almera quickly recoups lost scores from the physical contest with its superior cabin. The two-tone interior with tan leather seats is a premium touch in its segment. The Almera is also roomier than the rest, especially in terms of rear leg room.
It is also the only car here to feature keyless entry and engine start, while you'll still have to fumble with key fobs in the other two cars.
Like the Almera, the Sonic also makes use of contrasting colours to liven up the mood in its cabin. Drivers will appreciate the cool-looking digital speedometer, which is much easier to read on the move.
The Almera quickly recoups lost scores from the physical contest with its superior cabin. The two-tone interior with tan leather seats is a premium touch in its segment. The Almera is also roomier than the rest, especially in terms of rear leg room.
It is also the only car here to feature keyless entry and engine start, while you'll still have to fumble with key fobs in the other two cars.
Like the Almera, the Sonic also makes use of contrasting colours to liven up the mood in its cabin. Drivers will appreciate the cool-looking digital speedometer, which is much easier to read on the move.
To match its trendy design, the Sonic boasts a new tech feature that allows users to access their smartphone apps via its multimedia touchscreen interface (called the Navtrak Plus). It is also the only car here to be equipped with a reverse camera.
While still largely practical, the Sonic's rear quarters aren't as spacious as in the Almera and will fit three adults with a slight squeeze.
Last but not least, the Vios is closely matched to the Sonic in terms of cabin size, but edges ahead with better choices of materials used and a more robust build quality.
While still largely practical, the Sonic's rear quarters aren't as spacious as in the Almera and will fit three adults with a slight squeeze.
Last but not least, the Vios is closely matched to the Sonic in terms of cabin size, but edges ahead with better choices of materials used and a more robust build quality.
The Drive
Admittedly, these compact sedans aren't the most 'soul-stirring' to drive. But as daily workhorses, they deserve our respect for being humble yet efficient.
The Vios gets first mention with the largest output (in this group) of 107bhp and 141Nm of torque. Not only is it able to deliver peppy sprints off the line, we managed to get a fuel economy of 14.5km/L during our time with the car.
The Almera, on the other hand, manages 99bhp and 134Nm of torque. Compared to the Vios, it feels less eager to work through the revs - especially during overtaking manoeuvres. It will, however, deliver a respectable fuel economy of 13km/L.
But what we like best about the Almera is how it feels at the helm. In fact, it feels very much like the Sylphy, with the sharp and lively character of its bigger brother. While the drivetrain isn't as sprightly as we'd like it to be, it feels genuinely refined when cruising at highway speeds.
Like the Almera, the Sonic has 99bhp on offer - but from a smaller 1.4-litre unit. On paper, the Sonic dishes out a 12.9-second century sprint, which is, remarkably, a second quicker than the equally-powerful Almera. The downside is that the unit feels relatively strained when you pedal to the metal.
On a brighter side, the Sonic comes close to both rivals in terms of efficiency with a fuel economy of 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
We like the Sonic particularly for its trendsetting design, both on the outside and in the cabin, which has little trouble attracting the attention of younger buyers. Its less refined engine, however, makes it less desirable than its peers.
While its interior isn't the most inspiring, the Vios' blend of good looks and efficient drivetrain are traits that car fans (and car buyers alike) will be looking out for.
But for cost-conscious buyers, the Vios' asking price of $117,888 (as of 22nd January 2015) - a handsome $14k premium over the Almera and close to $8k more than the Sonic - may be too much to bear.
With that in mind, the Almera is the closest when it comes to economical motoring without sacrificing comfort and functionality for the family. And those, we think, are traits of a class-leading compact sedan.
Conclusion
We like the Sonic particularly for its trendsetting design, both on the outside and in the cabin, which has little trouble attracting the attention of younger buyers. Its less refined engine, however, makes it less desirable than its peers.
While its interior isn't the most inspiring, the Vios' blend of good looks and efficient drivetrain are traits that car fans (and car buyers alike) will be looking out for.
But for cost-conscious buyers, the Vios' asking price of $117,888 (as of 22nd January 2015) - a handsome $14k premium over the Almera and close to $8k more than the Sonic - may be too much to bear.
With that in mind, the Almera is the closest when it comes to economical motoring without sacrificing comfort and functionality for the family. And those, we think, are traits of a class-leading compact sedan.
Photos by Low Fai Ming
Car Information
Toyota Vios 1.5 Grande (A)
CAT A|Petrol|15.8km/L
Horsepower
80kW (107 bhp)
Torque
141 Nm
Acceleration
12sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Toyota ViosNissan Almera 1.5 Premium (A)
CAT A|Petrol|14.9km/L
Horsepower
73kW (98 bhp)
Torque
134 Nm
Acceleration
13.7sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Nissan AlmeraChevrolet Sonic Sedan 1.4 LTZ (A)
CAT A|Petrol|15.6km/L
Horsepower
74kW (99 bhp)
Torque
130 Nm
Acceleration
12.9sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Chevrolet Sonic Sedan
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