Introducing the Chevrolet Sonic

Chevrolet confirming that the sub-compact car to be build at GM's Orion Plant will be named the Sonic.

"The Sonic represents a new beginning for Chevrolet in the small car segment and so we felt it was time to give it a new name," said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet U.S. Marketing, in a statement issued by the company.

The vehicle, which is now being made in South Korea, is currently called the Aveo, and will keep that name outside of North America.

But the updated 2012 model has been significantly changed, and GM had been hinting for a while that it would get a new name.

When the Sonic goes into production next year, it will be the smallest vehicle made in the United States.  Concessions given by the UAW, allow it to be made at a profit.

The Orion plant will have a higher percentage of workers making the lower, second tier wage.  Eventually, as veteran Orion workers retire, the plant is expected to be staffed by all second tier workers.

That's created a lot of criticism, but the union said the only other option was to see the Orion plant close, and the vehicle built in South Korea.

The Orion plant is currently receiving a $545-million makeover, and will reopen in 2011.

The Chevrolet Sonic is one of a new generation of sub-compacts with more features than small cars of the past.  Ford's new Fiesta sub-compact has seen strong sales since its debut earlier this year.