The Spark is a more grown-up small car from Chevrolet and shows the firm is moving in the right direction. Style-wise, the Spark has a little fire in its belly and touches such the as the rear door handles being hidden in the window surround to give a sportier three-door appearance are welcome. Value remains at the heart of the Spark, though, and all of the engines get under the 120g/km emissions mark to offer low running costs.
Every model in the Spark line-up manages emissions of 119g/km, so it qualifies for very affordable road tax, and the Chevy is also easy on insurance. Both the 1.0- and 1.2-litre engines offer combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg and, with a 35-litre tank, has a reasonable cruising range of more than 400 miles. The entry-level 1.0-litre Spark is best avoided as it does without most kit and not even a CD stereo, though it does come with six airbags and ABS brakes. The 1.0+ gains central locking, CD stereo and air conditioning, while the LS models have some extra body-coloured trim. Alloy wheels and electric door mirrors come with the LS+ and the top spec LT provides climate control and electric rear windows. The Chevrolet Spark is keenly priced against rivals such as the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto and should hold its value as well these rivals. A three-year, 60,000 mile warranty comes with the Spark and Chevy dealers’ labour rates are very reasonable, so keeping the Spark on the road will not drain your finances.
Read the full Chevrolet Spark road test
