![]() ![]() ![]() The back seat is undeniably cramped the front seats must be slid forward to comfortably fit an adult.Įven the entry-level Spark has a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen with a 4G LTE mobile hotspot, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Unfortunately, the narrow front seats have flimsy cushions and no lateral support. The large front doors and raised seat height make climbing into the cockpit easy. The driving position is upright like a crossover's, with a fold-down armrest that keeps things comfortable. Desirable features are mainly limited to leather trimmings and heated front seats. Although most plastics are hard, they fit together evenly and have attractive textures. The Spark avoids the shoddy interior quality that is common on cars this cheap. Likes: Interior quality transcends price point, popular standard infotainment features.ĭislikes: Tight back seat, unwieldy folding rear seats. The automatic Spark LT we tested on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route returned 37 mpg, 1 mpg shy of both its EPA rating and the last 500C we tested. These figures are better than the Fiat 500's but are outdone by the Mitsubishi Mirage's rating of up to 36 mpg city and 43 highway. Highway estimates are 37 mpg on Activ models and 38 on the others. In city driving, it's rated at 29 mpg with the manual transmission and 30 with the automatic. 2016 Chevrolet Spark: It Rules the $15K Clubĭespite its teensy size and teeny engine, the Spark doesn't earn fantastic EPA estimates.The firm brake pedal had strong responses that helped scrub speed quickly and consistently. It was also relaxed at highway speeds and made changing lanes easy without feeling twitchy. The Spark's steering felt direct and communicated the road surface to the driver's hand. However, rattles and road noise were more subdued than in rival economy cars. Still, the Chevy was bouncy on uneven surfaces, and the harshest bumps were barely isolated. Its short wheelbase aids maneuverability in tight spaces without compromising ride quality. The Spark is easy to thread through slow-moving traffic, with quick lateral movements and stable motions. ![]() This diminutive hatchback is definitely not designed for long road trips, but it's effective and quiet in the city. The Spark struggled from zero to 60 mph in 10.7 seconds and needed 7.6 seconds to go from 50 to 70 mph, which simulates passing at highway speeds. While the version we tested was responsive at low speeds around town, be prepared to wait as it moseys up to higher speeds. Thankfully, the gearless automatic managed power well without droning engine noise. Likes: Unobtrusive CVT operation, unexpected ride quality, playful steering feedback.ĭislikes: Highway passes require premeditation, bumpy surfaces are poorly concealed.Įvery Spark has a feeble four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through either a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The interior receives a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats wrapped with faux leather. Its distinct appearance includes a chunkier front end and plastic lower cladding, roof rails, and special 15-inch wheels. We recommend the Spark Activ (sans "e") with the manual transmission, which saves $1100 over the optional automatic. ![]() While that version is the best bargain, every model provides an excellent value. The 2019 Spark price makes it the most affordable hatchback in its class, barely cresting $14,000 in base trim. Also, low-speed automated emergency braking is now available. White interior lighting now surrounds the climate controls. Every model adds the latest Chevrolet touchscreen interface (called Infotainment 3) plus two illuminated USB ports. New wheel designs and more exterior colors-Orange Burst, Passion Fruit, Caribbean Blue, and Raspberry-are further changes. Some 2019 Chevrolet Sparks receive an updated front end, with a fresh grille design and revised headlights. We think it's one of the best small cars you can buy, which is why we awarded it a spot on our Editors' Choice list. Although a small back seat and limited driver assists diminish its mass appeal, the Spark breaks the mold used by rival small cars. The Spark's raised seating height and tough-looking Activ model emulate popular crossover traits. Chevy's excellent infotainment system brings standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Its four-cylinder powertrain is unenthusiastic but discreet and obedient in city traffic. Instead, the pint-sized hatchback provides a cheerful cabin environment and unfettered driving engagement. The Chevrolet Spark disproves the notion that cheap transportation must be soulless. ![]()
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