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Over the past few weeks there have been rumors floating around the web about a possible Sonic entry into a rallycross circuit.  Today, more details began to emerge about this rallycross Sonic hatch.  According to a recent article featured on RACER.COM, Chevy will be the factory sponsor for driver Pat Moro who will be driving the Sonic hatchback (1).  For the full article please refer to this link: http://www.racer.com/chevy-sonic-set-to-debut-at-charlotte-global-rallycross/article/312436/

Details on the power-train were discussed in an interview with driver Pat Moro (2) by The Racing Insiders (3) where we learn of a Chevy supported all-wheel drive drivetrain powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine.

The design of the rally Sonic looks great and we are happy to see a hatch receiving some well deserved attention.  A few months back we envisioned a Sonic hatchback racer here: SONIC RACER.  Hopefully, as the season progresses the team will begin to gain some ground against the other teams.  Go team, go!


Reference (1).  Horsey, J.  Chevy Sonic Set to Debut at Charlotte Global Rallycross.  Racer.com Website. September 19, 2013. Retrieved September 19, 2013 from: http://www.racer.com/chevy-sonic-set-to-debut-at-charlotte-global-rallycross/article/312436/
(2). Pat Moro website.  www.pmrmotorsports.com
(3). GoRacingTV.com, Theracinginsiders.com Pat Moro interview published Jun 28, 2013.  Retrieved September 19, 2013 from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OO9wSDUmSk#t=301

Hey Sonic fans!  It's been a while since my last post and I came across an interesting web article at HITFIX which reveled some details of the all new Transformers movie.  One of the details was that there may just be a Chevy Sonic in the upcoming flick.  Read the full article here: HITFIX.  Also be sure to check the movie facebook page where you can see more Sonic images: https://www.facebook.com/transformersmovie

Reference:
HITFIX Website.  2012.  Micheal Bay's Transformers 4 Releases New Picture of the Chevrolet Sonic RS : http://www.hitfix.com/news/michael-bays-transformers-4-releases-new-picture-of-chevrolet-sonic-rs

Comparison of the Chevy Sonic 15" wheel and tire weight versus the 17" wheel and tire.  Both of the tire/wheel combinations were inflated to 35psi for this total comparison.  15" filled with nitrogen, and the 17" filled with compressed air.  Each measurement was taken three times and there was no change in weight for each measurement.
Results:
The stock 15" wheel with factory wrapped 195/65 Hankook Optimo H428's weighed in at a total of 37 lbs, with a four tire/wheel weight of 148 lbs.
The LTZ 17" wheel with factory wrapped 205/50 Hankook Optimo H428's weighted in at a total of 43.5 lbs, with a four tire/wheel weight of 174 lbs.
A difference of 6.5 pounds for each wheel equals a total vehicle weight increase of 26 lbs with the 17" over the 15".

Took a quick road trip and went up to Daytona Beach to check out the upcoming ROLEX 24 race.  On the way back I decided to monitor the MPG during my return as I dont take many road-trips or commute far during the week.  The trip was right about 60 miles from Daytona Beach to Orlando, straight-shot with no tolls.  Before the start home I reset the MPG and once finished I averaged 49.3 MPG.  I noticed when the RPM exceeded 2k the MPG would start to suffer and decline.  When the RPM was right at or below 2k the MPG held steady and would slowly go up.  Enjoy the images.  For an added bonus you may notice the image of the all new Mazda6.  This is a pretty cool car which will be making it's debut at the 2013 ROLEX 24.  The Mazdaspeed6 features a clean diesel skyactiv engine with a turbo.  This race should be a lot of fun, as usual.