Though not actually faster, Chevy’s Sonic and Cruze SEMA projects do 200 mph standing still

By Ronan Glon Published October 17, 2014

Chevrolet has announced it will introduce no less than five concepts at the SEMA show that will open its doors next month in Las Vegas, Nevada. The concepts are based on the Sonic, the Cruze, the Impala and the SS.

The Sonic Performance concept packs a bigger punch thank its regular-production counterpart thanks to modifications such as a cold-air induction system and a free-flowing exhaust line. Precisely how much power the Sonic gains was not specified, but Chevrolet promises a stiffer, track-tuned suspension that noticeably lowers the ride height helps the driver make the most of the extra ponies.

Visually, the Sonic Performance concept boasts an eye-catching Synergy Green paint job with contrasting white racing stripes, 17-inch alloy wheels painted white and a body kit consisting of a deeper front bumper, side skirts and an air diffuser integrated into the rear bumper.

Related: 550-horsepower Hyundai Genesis headed to SEMA

The Bowtie’s second Sonic-based show car is called Sonic Accessories concept. Designed to showcase the range of dealer-installed accessories that every Sonic can be ordered with, the hatchback features black alloy wheels, white rings around the headlights, a two-tone black and white paint job and a number of gloss black components including the radiator grille surround, the mirror caps and the roof-mounted spoiler. A Kicker sound system adds a finishing touch to the concept.

Chevrolet has not made any mechanical modifications to the Sonic Accessories, meaning it is powered by a stock 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. of torque.

Finally, the Cruze RS Plus concept builds on the regular-production 2015 Cruze RS with a Wildfire Metallic exterior paint job, a body kit all around and a discreet trunk-mounted spoiler. The 1.4-liter is fitted with a performance-enhancing stage kit but Chevrolet is keeping technical details and performance figures under wraps until the start of the SEMA show.

Chevrolet’s SEMA-bound concepts aren’t necessarily headed to production as-is, but the bulk of the accessories they feature can already be ordered through Chevrolet dealers.

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Ronan Glon is an American automotive and tech journalist based in southern France. As a long-time contributor to Digital…

Cars

Faraday Future could unveil lowest-priced EV yet at CES 2025

Faraday Future FF 91

Given existing tariffs and what’s in store from the Trump administration, you’d be forgiven for thinking the global race toward lower electric vehicle (EV) prices will not reach U.S. shores in 2025.

After all, Chinese manufacturers, who sell the least expensive EVs globally, have shelved plans to enter the U.S. market after 100% tariffs were imposed on China-made EVs in September.

Cars

Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs. Tesla Model Y: Does electric SUV beat the bestselling EV?

Hyundai Ioniq 9 driving

The long-awaited Hyundai Ioniq 9 is finally on the way, after months of waiting for what many hope will be a true competitor to the Kia EV9. The electric SUV is likely to be one of the go-to options for those who want a larger EV at a lower price than the likes of the Rivian R1S. But, while it's larger than the Tesla Model Y, it's also likely to be a little more expensive.

The two vehicles are a bit different when it comes to things like performance, range, and charging. Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 worth the extra cash, or should you go for the cheaper, yet smaller car? We put the two head-to-head to find out.
Design
The overall designs of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Tesla Model Y are pretty different, and that may be enough to sway your buying decision. The Ioniq 9 is a true SUV; it's big and boxy, and while it looks a little sleeker than some SUVs thanks to its curved roofline, it's clearly larger than the Tesla Model Y. At the front of the Ioniq 9 is a long light bar separated into pixel-like blocks that helps give the vehicle a unique design motif. At the rear of the Ioniq 9, you'll also find pixel lights curving around the sides and top of the trunk. The Ioniq 9 measures 199.2 inches long, 78 inches wide, and 70.5 inches high.

Cars

Volvo EX90 vs Tesla Model Y: Is Tesla’s cheaper EV also better?

2025 Volvo EX90 front quarter view.

The Volvo EX90 is finally here. The all-electric Volvo SUV was first unveiled a few years ago, but after some delays, the sleek Scandinavian vehicle is now available for order. As an electric SUV, it will go up against the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9. However, it will also have to compete with the most popular electric vehicle out there: the Tesla Model Y.

There are some clear differences between the two vehicles. While the Volvo EX90 is noticeably larger, the Tesla Model Y is significantly cheaper. Should you spend the extra cash for Volvo’s electric SUV, or should you opt for the Tesla?
Design
Perhaps the most obvious difference between the two vehicles lies in their design. The EX90 is more of a traditional SUV, featuring a big, boxy build that’s larger than the arguably crossover-sized Tesla Model Y. Beyond basic dimensions, however, there are plenty of other design differences. For instance, the Volvo EX90 has a more traditional appearance compared to the Model Y, which, despite being on the market for some time, remains relatively unique when compared to vehicles from other manufacturers. That’s not to say the EX90 looks dated — on the contrary, it’s sleek and stylish, showcasing Volvo’s signature design.