Chevrolet introduced two concept coupes and showed off the Sonic RS Turbo at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
The concepts, the Code 130R and the Tru 140S are aimed at next-generation buyers in the hope they will take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.
“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said GM North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”
Chevrolet notes there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30, representing 40 percent of today’s potential carbuyers and a total of $1 trillion in purchasing power. In an effort to attract them to the bow tie brand, Chevy has talked with young American consumers. Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.
The Code 130R is a four-seat coupe with a conventional upright profile. Painted in an new red metallic color with matte anodized gold wheels, the car features rear-wheel drive, an aggressive front fascia, fender flares and straight body sides. There’s a turbocharged engine with eAssist electric drive that automatically shuts off at stops. The idea is to take automotive electrification to the next level and balance turbocharged performance with fuel economy.
Tru 140S, the second Chevrolet concept is a front-wheel-drive, four-seat, three-door hatchback coupe Chevy describes as an “affordable exotic.” The car is presented in a new matte white with performance chrome wheels featuring the famous crossed flags emblem. The Tru 140S was build on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze and the Chevrolet Volt.
Like the Code 130R, The Tru 140s’ powertrain features a 150-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter EcoTec engine with direct injection and a starter-based stop-start technology.
Naturally, the concepts also include lots of connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, smart phone integration and Chevy’s MyLink.
GM says the target price is in the low $20,000 range.
Of more immediate interest is the Chevrolet Sonic RS that goes on sales late this year.
The new RS boasts unique exterior and interior features and a turbocharged 138-horsepower Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine. Sonic is the only vehicle in its segment with a turbo. It’s mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
“The new Chevrolet Sonic RS pushes Chevrolet’s performance heritage in a new direction, for a new generation of drivers,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Global Chevrolet Marketing. “It takes the Sonic’s great design and latest connectivity features and combines them with a more performance-oriented look and feel.”
The Sonic RS will come only as a five-door hatchback and Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system is standard. Exterior color choices include Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic.
“The Sonic RS remains true to the progressive spirit of the concept and brings an unmistakable attitude to the segment,” said John Mack, design director for the Sonic. “From every angle and every touch point, it is a car that is unabashed in its performance statement – and one that drives Chevrolet’s performance legacy into its second century.”