2016 Chevrolet Spark

NEW FOR 2016:

- All-new model.

Big news for Chevy’s little city car – it’s been completely redesigned for 2016 and in the process, it’s become a compelling option for urban dwellers.

Much like the last model, the Spark is an international product. Developed and assembled in Korea, it is also sold as the Opel Karl and Vauxhall Viva.

Gone is the bug-eyed look of the old Spark in favour of conventional more sheetmetal. Wider and lower than before, it wears Chevy’s corporate grille proudly and bears a strong resemblance to the one-size-up Sonic. Hidden rear door handles and rounded rear tail lights are a tip of a hat to the previous-generation car.

Inside, the Spark retains its four-passenger layout as well as an upbeat cabin appearance. Yes, there are no soft touch materials to be found, but at least things are interesting with neat styling flourishes and colour-coordinated upholstery and dash trim. Standard instruments take the place of the old model’s motorcycle-inspired cluster.

Powering the Spark is a new 1.4-litre engine that develops 98 horsepower. While that might not seem like much, it’s a big step up from the old model’s 84 ponies. A five-speed manual is standard, with a CVT as an extra-cost option.

While most city cars tend to skimp on equipment and technology to offer a low price point, Chevrolet has generously heaped on the technology and safety equipment. All models receive 10 airbags as standard, plus a 7.0-inch display audio system with USB port, Bluetooth, reverse camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE wireless connectivity via OnStar. Also on offer are forward collision alert and lane-departure – two other class exclusives. It definitely gives Canada’s other two sub-$10k-cars a good run for their money.

Chevrolet continues to offer the Spark EV electric vehicle; it is carried over from last year where it was a fleet-only vehicle. The Spark EV is available in B.C., Ontario, and Quebec. It offers a range of approximately 130 km per charge.

The Spark is available in LS, 1LT and 2LT trims.

Spark LS includes 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, body-colour door handles, solar tinted glass, black grille, body-colour tailgate handle, automatic headlamps, manual mirrors with black finish, reverse camera, rear spoiler, rear wiper, rear seat console tray, carpeted floor mats, trip computer, exterior temperature display, tire pressure monitor, overhead light, 12-volt power outlet, tilt steering column, driver’s side vanity mirror, four-way manual driver’s seat with inboard folding armrest, cloth upholstery, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, four-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, 7.0-inch display audio system with AM/FM, USB port, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and OnStar with 4G LTE WiFi.

1LT adds 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille surround, fog lights, body-colour heated power mirrors, rear cargo shelf, air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, power door locks, dual vanity mirrors, power windows, six-speaker sound system, and satellite radio.

2LT adds standard CVT with hill-start assist, chrome door handles, chrome tailgate handle, chrome beltline moulding, rear park assist, power sunroof, chrome interior door handles, enhanced monochromatic instrument cluster display with Eco drive assist, dual reading lamps, proximity key with push-button start, heated front seats, and leatherette upholstery.

EV equipment includes unique 15-inch staggered width alloy wheels, air conditioning with cabin filter, six-speaker AM/FM/satellite radio with 7.0-inch display audio system, USB port, tonneau cover, Electric Blue interior trim, rear seat console tray, cruise control, power door locks, 7.0-inch TFT instrument cluster with digital speedometer and EV range projection, proximity key with push-button start, OnStar with 4G LTE internet and WiFi hotspot, 12-volt power outlet, remote start, 60/40 split folding rear seats, four-way manually adjustable driver’s seat with fold-down armrest, heated front seats, tilt steering column, cloth upholstery, power front and rear windows, dual vanity mirrors, body-colour door handles, solar tint glass, active grille shutters, chrome liftgate trim, power adjustable body colour exterior mirrors, chrome beltline, rear spoiler, tire repair kit, rear wiper, electric parking brake, and alarm.