Overview & Reviews

There was a time when enticing Americans with any kind of subcompact car -- much less an urban runabout with a footprint at the starting end of the Environmental Protection Agency's definition of "subcompact" -- was a hopeless task for Detroit's automakers. People in a nation of big spaces, big roads, big parking lots and cheap gasoline just weren't interested. But times change, as the arrival of the Chevrolet Spark certainly shows.

Based on a Korean-developed model that once would have been considered simply too small for American drivers, the Chevy Spark makes plenty of sense today for post-recession households and young buyers lucky enough to land that first real job. Chevrolet's entry-level hatchback is stingy with fuel, and its city-friendly dimensions are in tune with our increasingly urban-centric times. Moreover, although it weighs barely more than a ton and is one of the least expensive new cars available, the Spark has the "real car" driving characteristics and feature content that inexpensive economy cars of the past almost universally lacked.

Current Chevrolet Spark
The Chevrolet Spark comes only as a four-door hatchback with front-wheel drive. It's sold in just three trim levels -- LS, 1LT and 2LT -- with almost no stand-alone options (save for an automatic transmission). The base Spark LS provides niceties such as air-conditioning, power windows, a tilt steering wheel, four-speaker audio and a height-adjustable driver seat, as well as safety features that include stability control and knee airbags for front-seat occupants.

Going to the midlevel 1LT brings enticing items like cruise control, remote keyless entry, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a six-speaker audio system and a 7-inch touchscreen interface with Chevy's MyLink smartphone integration. The top 2LT trim adds exterior and interior cosmetic upgrades plus leather-like upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats.

As the starting point of the Chevrolet lineup, the Spark has the brand's smallest engine, a 1.2-liter four-cylinder that generates 84 horsepower and 83 pound-feet of torque. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual, with a continuously variable automatic (CVT) available as an option. Fuel economy approaches 40 mpg on the highway with either transmission, an impressive rating that a few rivals nonetheless exceed.

In reviews of the Chevrolet Spark, we've lauded its appealingly modern design and straightforward controls. Motorcycle-inspired gauges, a conceptual hand-me-down from the larger Sonic, give the Spark an extra injection of style inside. The available 7-inch MyLink touchscreen is a surprisingly high-tech touch for this segment, giving smartphone users all the connectivity they could ask for. Seat comfort is adequate in front, though rear passengers may complain unless they're subcompact themselves.

On the road, the Spark's modest engine output is apparent, but acceleration is generally sufficient to keep up with traffic. Drivers who want a bit more punch are advised to check out a used turbocharged Sonic. In terms of handling, the Spark's minimal weight, short wheelbase and light-touch power steering make for a nimble partner in the cut-and-thrust of city and suburban traffic. Even better, its suspension can soak up a fair amount of abuse before the ride gets jarring or noisy. Braking is confident, too.

Used Chevrolet Spark Models
The current, first-generation Chevrolet Spark debuted for the 2013 model year with a different optional transmission: a four-speed conventional automatic. We found this transmission to be fixated on fuel economy and thus reluctant to downshift unless we floored it. The manual Spark still managed to be a bit more fuel-efficient. In performance testing, the automatic needed about 1.5 more seconds to reach 60 mph, so even with the pedal to the metal, it gave up considerable ground. The CVT replaced it for 2014.

User Reviews:

• 

  I told the dealer no way, but then I drove it - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By Rick - December 2 - 2:45 am

  I am 52 years old and have owned BMW Audi Volkswagen Acura Toyota Nissan Honda Chevy Ford aad Jeep. The only American made vehicle that I was happy with were the several Jeeps that I have owned over the years. I barely even noticed these little cars on the highway let alone picture me driving one. My last vehicle was a 2004 Volvo XC70 that was a great vehicle for many years and always reliable. But as I got closer to 200,000 miles on it and started having to face some serious repairs I decided that I would rather be invested in a newer vehicle. I am an outdoors kind of guy so was looking for a 5 to 10 year old SUV or truck. I went to the dealer with that in mind but due to some credit issues Ive had I was informed that I could not get into that type of vehicle for what I wanted to pay. The sales guy then pointed me in the direction of the spark and said Ihe could get me into that. I shook my head and told him no way and walked away. He handed me the keys and said take it out for a drive. I was there so I figured what the heck. As I drove it for about 20 minutes it occurred to me that this vehicle was exactly what I need at this point in my life. So I went back and bought one. It came with a 5 year 100,000 mile warranty and the peace of mind that that gave me sealed the deal. I now I look forward to getting into my car every morning for my commute through Denver to where I work without wondering if today is the day that Im going to find myself stranded by the side of the road because my car broke down. That means a lot to me right now and I am glad I made the choice that I did. I got a great price with low monthly payments and I have great peace of mind. I actually look forward to driving places voluntarily. I have had it for a month and I absolutely love it. The CVT takes a little getting used to but once up to speed it performs very well and the fuel economy is unprecedented. Smalll hatch storage but it influences me to get back to my minimalist outdoor camping days because now I can no longer bring along the kitchen sink . I guess thats another bonus in a backwards way for me . Buy one. You wont regret it.

• 

  A very sparky Spark - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By Daviid Hertzig - September 15 - 8:40 pm

  Just test drive it. That will convince you!

• 

  Bigger on the inside - 2017 Chevrolet Spark
  By Bonnie - July 1 - 4:04 pm

  It may look small on the outside but inside it’s surprisingly roomy with head and leg room for my 6’3” passenger. I researched subcompacts for several years in anticipation of replacing my 18 year old Saturn SW1. The Chevy Spark was the best for me hands down. It has all the new features I’d wanted and a great safety rating. While I’d have preferred to buy a cat made by union autoworkers this was the best compromise. Apparently there are no subcompacts made in the US. There are a few small design things I’d change the passenger headrest can block your view if the seat isn’t in the right place and the sun visor is way too small to be effective. But these are such small things it doesn’t at all diminish my enjoyment of driving this car. It’s perfect for commuting in and out of the city. The bright beautiful blue color makes me more visible to my fellow commuters too. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a comfortable subcompact that’s also affordable and safe!

• 

  Good value - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By lebertrand - January 16 - 12:05 am

• 

  Sparky to the Rescue! - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By John King - November 10 - 11:31 pm

  One of the lowest priced new vehicles one can purchased, yet it doesnt look like one or perform like one. I had MINI Cooper for 12 years and loved everything about it EXCEPT its fuel economy (much less than people think), propensity to break down, and cost of repairs (its made by BMW). In less than a month I have fallen in love with my Chevrolet Spark. It simply does not feel like an economy car and it looks dashing! The engine is so quiet I have had to check a few times to see if it was still running (and it always was)! It is nimble to maneuver, cruises at 55-70 mph smoothly with no strain, the front seat was comfortable even for a 6 foot +, 300 pound man.

• 

  Fun to drive but some disappointments - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By coopdedoo - October 20 - 7:51 am

  Car has an agile feel and is fun to drive. Notable hesitation on acceleration however so no darting across an intersection. The size is perfect for me. Am not getting even close to the MPG on the sticker despite light foot. More like 27 city, 30 highway which is my biggest disappointment. Apple Carplay is not consistent--disconnects on a whim. Dealer has suggested putting in a new USB port--just have to be able to leave the car there for a day. The gas pump nozzle at Costco will not stay in the gas tank so I have to stand and pump, breathing in the fumes. My lower back hurt the first time I spent more than 10 minutes driving (granted Im not a youngster). Bought a back support which has helped. One last tiny complaint--the windshield wipers leave a spot "un-wiped" near the bottom where they dont overlap completely. That I can live with... :-) Burnt marshmallow color hides dust very well.

• 

  Big improvement!! - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By CHARLIE McMullen - September 1 - 8:19 am

  The car felt much bigger and smoother. The front seats were vey comfortable for my bad back. I am short, but legroom and headroom was acceptable. The interior was impressive including dash layout, colors, fabric. I did not trade yet because I owe a lot on my Smart Fortwo, but will trade soon. Try this very economical and luxurious Spark. I bet youll love it.

• 

  GREAT little car! - 2016 Chevrolet Spark
  By salandra - June 5 - 10:33 pm

  I have been looking at the Spark for a few months...and the dealership had a GREAT incentive of $3k off, so I went down to test drive. I was VERY surprised of the roominess of this little car! I am a 6 foot tall woman and my little Ford Escort just wasnt cutting it. Well, the Spark feels like you sit up, almost like an SUV. The ride is GREAT, and I drive 40 minutes 1 way to work every day. This little guy reminds me of my old Omni (back in the day)...but a MUCH BETTER RIDE! I love the mpg. 5 STARS ALL THE WAY!!!!!

• 

  Great For High Mileage, Cool Tech, Tight Parking! - 2017 Chevrolet Spark
  By C. Tatum - May 22 - 5:31 am

  I am a simple kind of guy, and my goal with getting another vehicle was very simple – get a new vehicle at a reasonably low price. Happily, the 2017 Spark is simple in all the ways I like – I got the base LS model because I’m not a fan of power anything (power stuff breaks first). The only “power” options I wanted and got on the Spark were power steering and an automatic transmission. The most common descriptor my friends use for the Spark is “cute.” It’s quite a small vehicle, but it’s one I have no problem fitting my 5’ 11”, 230-pound frame into. The seats, while not easy-chair material, are sufficiently comfortable. The Spark is good with mirrors and window space – blind spots on either side of the car have been kept to a minimum. The rear-view mirror inside the cabin could be a little wider, but it’s adequate. And the rear window is wide enough to monitor tailgaters. Internal storage space, as has been widely written about, isn’t very much, but you can fold the rear seats down for additional space. It also has two rear doors which might be suitable for loading large items as well as associates. Much has also been written about the Spark’s 98-horsepower engine and that it takes 10 seconds to get to 60 mph. I have not found it to be a problem. I would not call it underpowered at all. If you’re an angry, pushy driver who loves to tailgate others, the Spark will exhaust your patience. But if you’re a judicious, considerate driver, the Spark’s acceleration won’t be an issue for you. I was a little surprised to find out the Spark has a 9.2-gallon tank – the smallest in any vehicle I’ve ever owned, but that’s offset by its high-rated fuel mileage of 38mpg (highway) and up. If you do the math, that’s a cruising range of at least 340 miles. This is not a “touring” car, but for 180- to 250-mile trips that I take on occasion, I’m confident the Spark can handle the pull. The deal clincher for me was under the hood – the EcoTec engine, this one a 1.4-liter jobbie – is the centerpiece of the Spark. I became a huge fan of EcoTec with my last car which lasted over 296,000 miles with that original engine. Unlike the Fiat 500, you can use 87 octane fuel with the Spark. Compared with what I’ve read about similar subcompacts, the Spark’s instrument panel and dash are welcomingly simple and very nicely designed. No screen is too “busy”. If you have an Android or iPhone smartphone, you can plug either device into the USB jack and access music and certain mobile apps from those devices on the touch-screen display. The semi-digital dash on the base model is the carries a nice amount of information including mpg, miles to empty, and average speed. The 1LT and 2LT models are supposed to be even better on this point. The radio does NOT pick up HD channels (at least not in the base model), so get your premium stations thru your Bluetooth enabled smartphone and apps like Sirius XM or Pandora. The Spark includes several modern conveniences and safety features such as a rear backup camera and the MyChevy touch-screen control system with Bluetooth. You get a 3-month trial of OnStar remote monitoring and assistance free, too, as well as built-in 4G wi-fi service you can add on for as little as $10 a month (1 GB). Automatic lights, cup holders, and too many other features to include in this short review. The Spark is a good, simple little car that has in reviews been compared favorably in specific ways to the pricier Honda Fit, the trendy Fiat 500, the practical Nissan Versa, and the equally reliable Toyota Yaris. The Spark stands out, though, for its integrated OnStar service and onboard technology. If you’re in a precarious situation with savings or credit score, and you need basic transportation, you’ll like the Spark a lot. If you’re a road hog, or a gearhead, look elsewhere. The Spark is most certainly not a ride for hipsters (unless they’re driving it ironically). For its high fuel mileage, its maneuverability in tight parking spaces, its safety features, and its integrated smartphone technology, not to mention its low price relative to other vehicles in its class, the 2017 Spark earns its 5 stars overall. Just a few things keep it from being an absolutely perfect subcompact, but no one has made one of those yet! Take a test drive! You’ll love it!

• 

  nice little car easy to park - 2017 Chevrolet Spark
  By larry schaeffer - May 14 - 12:50 pm

  had less than a month nothing to say yet