28 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic with the 1.8L 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. This isn’t a hybrid. The Sonic is an affordable and reliable subcompact that’s designed for urban and suburban driving, and its fuel economy reflects that. First-time car buyers, students, and people seeking basic transportation purchase this car. For them, 28 MPG may be “good enough” because of the Sonic’s low price and ease of ownership.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Sonic 1.8L at 24 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The city fuel economy is lower because it’s not optimized for stop-and-go driving. The engine and traditional automatic transmission prioritize ease of use over maximizing every drop of fuel at low speeds. The highway number is respectable. At a steady 65-75 mph, the Sonic can achieve close to, or even slightly above, that 34 MPG rating, making it a decent choice for commutes or road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the estimated annual fuel cost for this Sonic is $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average fuel prices. Fuel prices change, and your driving habits affect your fuel costs. Someone who drives in city traffic will likely spend more than $1,550, while someone with a highway commute could spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a helpful benchmark, and real-world fuel economy can vary. Many owners say that the Sonic 1.8L gets between 26 and 32 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will hurt fuel economy. Gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you get closer to the EPA estimates, or surpass them. If you pay attention to your driving style, the Sonic’s fuel economy will likely be acceptable. For more information about all Chevrolet fuel economy data, check out our extensive listings.

How it compares

The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8L’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The Honda Fit can achieve up to 36 MPG combined in some trims, making it more efficient. The Toyota Yaris iA (later rebranded as the Toyota Yaris) also gets excellent fuel economy, around 34MPG combined. Some competitors, such as the Ford Fiesta with its base engine, offer similar or slightly lower fuel economy. The Nissan Versa, especially later models, aims for higher fuel efficiency. If maximizing fuel economy is important, there are better options. The Sonic offers affordability, practicality, and good fuel efficiency that appeals to many buyers. Check out SONIC MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps optimize fuel economy in the Sonic. Avoid fast starts and maintain a smooth and steady pace. The 1.8L engine doesn’t need hard revving to get up to speed, and excessive acceleration wastes fuel.

Proper tire inflation is an easy way to improve fuel economy. Check your tires and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Minimize weight in the car. Remove items you don’t need, such as golf clubs, luggage, or tools. The lighter the car, the less fuel it will use.

Plan trips to avoid traffic. Idling consumes fuel, and if you’re stuck in traffic, turn off the engine to save fuel.

Consider cruise control on the highway to maintain speed and improve fuel economy. Cruise control helps you avoid accelerating or decelerating, which wastes fuel. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as it may cause the transmission to downshift often, reducing efficiency.