American car manufacturers have lately turned a corner in regard to compact and subcompact cars that people are excited to drive. With gas prices in the United States rivaling Europe and Asian prices there has been more of a demand for engaging small vehicles. The compact and subcompact car segments that were typically ruled by overseas manufacturers are now being filled by trendy and admired American cars such as 2012 Chevy Sonic and larger Volt. Although Chevrolet has always done well with larger cars and trucks, J.D. Power confirmed Chevy’s smaller cars have major visual appeal with buyers of all ages.

Also, known as “The voice of the customer,” J.D. Power and Associates awarded the 2012 Sonic and 2012 Volt as having the Highest Ranked Vehicle Appeal in their respective segments. Guaranty Chevrolet in Orange County is so excited by the accolade, they are rewarding their customers with special lease offers on Volt and 0% financing on 2012 Sonic.

“These are both cars that we are extremely proud of in the Chevrolet lineup,” Sales Manager Joe Renden states. “Having a highly competitive Compact and Subcompact option is a huge deal for any car company; it’s a segment that has a lot of competition from around the world.” Renden also mentions the upscale approach and global appeal that are so important in today’s marketplace. “The Sonic and Volt are both cars that most people around the world would be pleased to drive; a compromise between luxurious and economical is the way to the future.”

J.D. Power and Associates has mentioned the 2012 Sonic and 2012 Volt as having the “Highest Ranked Vehicle Appeal among Subcompact Cars and Compact cars.” With more than 70,000 new-vehicle buyers included in the Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study, the test had some tough competition. J.D. Power also looked at Fuel Economy, Driving Dynamics, Vehicle Exterior, Visibility and Driving Safety, among other factors before the awards were handed out.

Volt respectively had the highest ranking in the Compact Car category for the second year in a row. The extended range electric car has been a huge success for Chevrolet and General Motors perhaps paving-the-way for electrification technology to future cars and trucks within GMs exciting lineup.

In its first year on the road, Sonic was recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as having the “Highest Ranked Vehicle Appeal among Sub-Compact Cars.” The 2012 Sonic boasts dynamic, front and rear outside styling cues and high-quality interior appointments, including softer surfaces throughout. The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is also equipped with the highly anticipated Ecotec 1.4L turbo delivering an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway and city fuel economy of 29 mpg, making the Sonic a top contender in the Subcompact market.