RS and Dusk sedan join Chevy's Sonic lineup

The Chevy Sonic RS sedan and the Sonic Dusk sedan will join the bow tie's lineup of small city commuter cars next spring. Both start at just more than $20,000.

The Sonic RS sedan will take the styling cues of the RS hatchback, including the deep air dam in the front fascia, aluminum sport pedals, flat-bottom steering wheel and leather seats with red accents. Chevy says the special edition Sonics will initially be offered in three colors: white, silver and black.

Also like the RS hatch, the sedan will use a 1.4-liter turbocharged motor, making 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual-equipped version gets special gearing while the automatic version will have a final drive ratio of 3.53. Fuel economy is impressive at 27 mpg city and 34 highway with the manual.

A lowered, sport-tuned suspension enhances driving feel.

The Dusk was first shown at the SEMA show in 2011. It wears a ground-effects package, rear spoiler and 18-inch aluminum wheels with a silver-matte finish. The only exterior option is Ashen Gray Metallic, with a matte appearance on the upper and lower grilles, door handle inserts and rear license plate trim. Lower window moldings are done in stainless steel.

The same 1.4-liter that's in the RS is also in the Dusk, making the equivalent 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. Fuel ratings for this car are 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

Chevy also announced a handful of performance parts for the Sonic in 2014. They include the 1.4-liter Turbo Stage Kit that adds 10 hp and 15 pounds of twist; a cold-air induction system; suspension kit with a lower ride height; upgraded brakes with Wilwood front calipers; and an 18-inch wheel and tire package. These parts join the appearance accessories announced earlier this year.

By Jake Lingeman