Chevrolet brings its minicar to the U.S. in the Spark, a hatchback sold overseas since 2008. The Spark boasts city-friendly dimensions and Chevrolet's optional MyLink multimedia system. Slotting below the entry-level Sonic, which is more than a foot longer in hatchback form, the Spark competes with a handful of minicars in the U.S.: the Smart ForTwo, Scion iQ and Fiat 500.
Exterior
Where other minicars have two doors, the Spark has four. The rear doors integrate handles near the C-pillars. Like a lot of minicars, the Spark mixes flashier paint colors — with names like Jalapeno and Techno Pink — with traditional hues. Fifteen-inch alloy wheels are standard, which is uncommon for a budget car. Uplevel trims have body-colored exterior moldings, fog lights and chrome details.
Interior
GM claims the four-seat Spark has more cabin room than its minicar competitors. Power windows and air conditioning are standard. Like the Sonic, the Spark has a futuristic instrument pod with a single gauge and flanking information screen. In back, a cupholder and storage tray separate two outboard seats.
Chevrolet's optional MyLink multimedia system has a 7-inch touch-screen that can integrate various applications from a connected smartphone. Other options include heated faux-leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Under the Hood
A 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine makes 85 horsepower. It works with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Standard safety features include 10 airbags, including rollover-sensing curtains, plus antilock brakes and an electronic stability system.
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