2018 Chevrolet Spark

Overview

The 2018 Chevrolet Spark is a subcompact hatchback that should be an easy punchline given its tiny size and meager horsepower. Except this little Chevy is agile in city driving, where its handling lets it zip through traffic, and the engine is fine as long as you don’t expect anything close to quick passing maneuvers. A user-friendly infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot matter more than tire-spinning speed at this price point, anyhow. True, adults won’t be happy spending long stretches in the rear seat, and fuel economy is only okay given the engine’s limited power. Yet, the Spark is entertaining when driven within its limits.

What's New for 2018?

The Spark, Chevy's least expensive car, rolls into the 2018 model year with no notable changes. Available trim levels include LS, 1LT, 2LT, and Activ. The sporty Activ has black plastic front and rear bumpers and roof rails, as well as extra ground clearance, to add SUV-like toughness to this tiny city car.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• LS: $13,925
• 1LT: $15,750
  
• 2LT: $17,250
  
• Activ: $16,995
  

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

You don’t get a lot of engine in a car with a starting price of less than $14,000. The Spark comes with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that sends 98 horsepower to the front wheels via a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Thankfully, even with the slushbox, the Spark doesn’t drone under hard acceleration or at highway speeds. Acceleration is modest, to put it mildly, though it’s fine for running errands around town. It's easy to thread through traffic, with quick and stable motions. Its short wheelbase aids maneuverability in tight spaces without compromising ride quality. Still, the Spark is bouncy on uneven surfaces, and the harshest bumps are barely isolated.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Thanks to the Spark's square shape, visibility from the driver’s seat is good, and headroom is ample. The seating position is upright, similar to what you’d find in a small crossover vehicle. Space in the second row is snug for long-limbed adults, though it’s not a torture chamber if the trips are short. There is a lot of plastic in the interior, but it looks and feels more solidly put together than many rivals. And higher trims add features like heated seats, keyless entry, pushbutton start, and driver-assistance tech. Cargo room behind the rear seatback rings in at a reasonable 11 cubic feet. But folding the second row down is an exercise in frustration. And after all that trouble, you’re left with an uneven cargo floor.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2018 Spark doesn’t cost very much, but it comes with an impressive infotainment system. While the 7.0-inch touchscreen isn’t cutting-edge tech, it’s easy to use and functional, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, a single USB outlet, and a four-speaker audio system. For young buyers on a budget, these tech features could seal the deal.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Chevrolet Spark’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.