It seems that every time GM redesigns a small car, it gives it a new name to keep the outgoing model’s bad reputation at arm’s length. The Vega was replaced by the Monza, which was replaced by the Cavalier, which was replaced by the Cobalt. None of that would prepare you for the Cobalt’s replacement, the Cruze, which breaks the bad replacement mojo so much a part of the Chevy small car psyche.

That trend continues with the Chevrolet Sonic, the Chevrolet Aveo’s replacement. I suspect the Sonic name may last more than one generation.

The Sonic’s style quotient depends on the body style you opt for; it comes as a four-door notchback and a five-door hatchback.

Both share the same wheelbase, but the sedan is 14 inches longer. This doesn’t add interior volume. As a matter of fact, crucial measurements such as headroom, leg room and shoulder room are identical. Cargo space, however, is a spacious 14 cubic feet in the sedan, versus an incredible 19 cubic feet in the hatchback. And it expands to more than 30 cubic feet.

More importantly, the five-door is a funky little chunk oozing with youthful, athletic spunkiness. The four-door is a bit more conservative and not as fetching.

But Chevrolet designers tapped motorcycles for design inspiration, using it for the car’s lights, as well as inside, where the instrument cluster consists of a tachometer and speedometer and bunch of lights laid out asymmetrically.

The interior’s layout is as visually caffeinated as the five-door. But look closer: Everywhere you look, Chevy designers have paid attention to the finishes. There’s nothing poorly done. The plastics are hard, but nicely textured. A second, smaller glove box has a USB port for your portable electronic device of choice. The steering wheel has buttons for the cruise control and audio system.

The front seats are more comfortable than you might expect and there’s more than sufficient leg room. The rear seat has a lot less leg room, but that’s typical of the class.

But all of this means nothing if the car isn’t fun to drive. Given that it’s a small Chevrolet, you might have some preconceived notions. This car will brush them aside.

Remarkably, the Sonic is, well, super.

There are two engines offered, and they’re both quite good. Base models get a 1.8-liter double-overhead-cam engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual. Upper trim levels get a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder mated exclusively to a six-speed manual. Both engines are rated at 138-horsepower, but the turbo mill is rated 148 pound-feet of torque; the 1.8 only has 125.

The smaller motor also enjoys higher fuel economy ratings: 29 mpg city, 40 highway. By contrast, the 1.8 comes in at 25 city, 35 highway.

Both powerplants come from the larger Chevrolet Cruze, which weighs several hundred pounds more.

The 1.8 lacks some of the joie de vivre of the turbo model, but still turns a respectable performance.

The car’s conventional suspension set-up is typical of the class: an independent front suspension, a torsion-beam axle out back and front disc, rear drum brakes.

But this little Sonic makes the most of what’s available. The steering is precise and quick; body lean is well managed. This little automotive hedgehog loves being thrown into the thick of things. Tackle a corner with gusto; the Sonic will relish the chance more than any small Chevy is living memory.

It’s enhanced by a solid chassis, good build quality and a long list of safety gear: Chevy includes 10 air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist.

You can also equip it with some upscale options, such as remote start, heated front seats and perforated leatherette seating surfaces.

And did I mention its good looks? Oh yeah, I did.

If Chevrolet had engineered its small cars as well as it has the Sonic, it wouldn’t have needed a bailout.

The Sonic is every bit as good as its overseas competitors and a must-drive for anyone considering a small, fuel-efficient car.

———

2012 CHEVROLET SONIC:

—Engine: 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder

—Wheelbase: 99.4 inches

—Length: 159 inches

—Weight: 2,684 pounds

—Cargo space: 19-30.7 cubic feet

—EPA rating (city/highway): 25/35 mpg

—Fuel consumption: 29.5 mpg

—Fuel type: Regular

—Base price, base model: $14,635 (including destination charge)

—As tested: $18,580