2017 Chevrolet Spark

The 2017 Chevrolet Spark, as the name would suggest, is actually not a hybrid or electric vehicle (EV). There is an EV variation of the Spark, but the original Spark model is a simple four-door hatchback that is available in four trims. Up-to-date with technology for smartphone connectivity and safety, it’s the perfect mini car for daily commuters and families. The cargo room may be a bit small, but this hatchback is designed for an around town kind of trip, and it has plenty of room for groceries, luggage, and other small pieces of equipment.

Starting At

$13,875

Engine Type

Each of the four Chevrolet Spark trims are powered by a single engine - a 1.4-liter ECOTEC DOHC 4-cylinder engine. “ECOTEC” stands for “Emissions Control Optimization TEChnology”, a special engine design to reduce engine emissions, developed by General Motors (GM). “DOHC,” or double overhead camshaft, is a design intended to take tension off the engine, which can lead to better engine performance. The 1.4L engine in the Chevy Spark generates 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque.

Driving and Handling

The standard transmission in Chevrolet Spark trims is a 5-speed manual transmission. However, consumers may opt for a continuous variable transmission (CVT) instead. Some consumers prefer the CVT because its design allows the transmission to switch gears without a loss or change in speed, whilst conserving fuel. The transmission and engine designs lead to a standard combined fuel economy of 34 mpg for all four of the 2017 Chevy Spark trims.

Exterior Features

The exterior of the 2017 Chevy Spark is simple, yet stylish. The four trims all come with basic features such as halogen headlamps and a black grille, while other features stand out, such as solar absorbing glass to keep the cabin from overheating, or a power sunroof installation available on select trims. For some extra cargo space, a luggage rack is available on the high-end trim, the Spark ACTIV.

Multiple packages are offered for the Spark, such as a driver confidence package to add on select safety features, an interior protection package for all-weather floor and cargo mats, and a winter/summer floor mats package. There are many styling choices available and they include red wheel inserts, upper and lower grille inserts, and splash guards. The Chevy Spark is equipped with a rear spoiler, and it rides around on 15-inch wheels. Depending on the trim, the wheel design changes, and all Spark models have a 14-inch steel spare wheel.

Interior Features

The standard seating trim is cloth, and the available color choices include jet black or a combination of colors. Some Spark trims are available or come standard with leather seating. All Spark trims come standard with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat and a driver information center i.e. a trip computer for displaying fuel range, fuel economy, tire pressure, etc.

Available convenient features include Bluetooth for phone connectivity, heated front seats for the driver and passenger, a keyless start push-button system, remote keyless entry, and steering wheel mounted controls. A cargo net for securing stored items is available on all trims. There are also packages for the interior, including the previous packages mentioned and a smoker’s package that includes an ashtray and lighter.

Entertainment

The standard for all trims is a Chevrolet MyLink Radio that offers smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth streaming audio, and Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, all on a 7-inch color touch screen. The standard sound system comes with four speakers, but high-end trims come with a 6-speaker system. A 3-month trial subscription to SiriusXM also comes with select trims.

Safety Features and Warranty

The 2017 Chevrolet Spark comes with all the basic safety features one would look for in a modern vehicle, including a total of ten enhanced airbags, an engine immobilizer to deter theft, head restraints, LATCH ready seats for child seating, a rear vision camera, a theft-deterrent system, traction and stability control systems, and select OnStar packages. Advanced safety features include forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and rear park assist.

Chevrolet vehicles come with a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty (100,000 miles for qualified fleet purchases). Additionally, the vehicle’s exterior is protected by a 3-year or 36,000-mile corrosion warranty, 6-year or 100,000-mile rust-through warranty, buyers receive complimentary roadside assistance for 5 years or 60,000 miles. There is also a 2-year scheduled maintenance plan, standard.