If you could go back in time, how far back would you go? Would you only go back far enough to get the car or truck of your dreams before it is ravaged by the effects of time and weather? Unfortunately, that is not an option. But, thankfully, many aftermarket companies are manufacturing all-new bodies so any enthusiast can build a completely rust-free hot rod.

Such is the case with this unbelievably cool ’56 Chevy pick-em-up that we learned about, thanks to our friends at Total Cost Involved (TCI). Like all good hot rods, this one has a name — Sonic56. It’s not a well-worn farm truck that received a rebuild. According to Kerry Logsdon of Premier Street Rod, “Sonic 56 is a new Premier truck, meaning that it was built with our Premier sheetmetal package. That includes a new cab, fenders, bed, etc. Premier is licensed by GM to reproduce the restoration cabs for ’47 through ‘53, ’55 through’57, and ’58 through ‘59 trucks. We are currently building ’67 through ‘72 truck cabs.”

An LS crate engine is a great way to get an all-new drivetrain. What could be better than installing that new mil in a new ’56 Chevy truck?

As with any project, having a solid foundation is paramount to great performing, reliable hot rod. To make sure that is the case with Sonic56, a Total Cost Involved chassis takes charge of any twisty roads the owner, Danny Carrasco, can throw at it. Controlling the suspension movement are airbags, and stopping is handled by Wilwood brakes.

This hot hauler is powered by a Chevrolet Performance crate engine. The mill of choice? A 420-horse LS3 that is sure to turn the rear tires into piles of asphalt powder. Behind that is the always reliable 4L75 transmission leading back to a Currie rearend.

Inside, you’ll find more top-quality craftsmanship in the form of a SewCalRods custom interior. While you’re planted in the form-fitting seat, you’ll be looking at a set of Dakota Digital gauges, while the Restomod Air keeps you cool. What’s a hot rod without tunes, and for Sonic56, Kicker Audio fills the cab.

The PPG color is called Sonic Gray, the Nitto-wrapped wheels are 20×8 and 22×11 hoops made by Budnik. Sonic56 has it all, good looks, and enough performance capability to make any gearhead jealous.

While not a typical rebuild, it’s readily apparent that Sonic56 is more than just a hot rod—it’s a work of art. As I try to control my jealousy of Danny for owning such a great looking and handling hot rod, I can’t help but hope I can convince him to take me for a ride someday.