Overview

What's New for 2021

Chevrolet builds the Spark in front-drive, hatchback form, with seating for four. It also features a rear liftgate for easy cargo access. Four trim levels are available: LS, 1LT, ACTIV, and 2LT.

Pricing starts from around $13,500 for the LS with a five-speed manual transmission standard on all trims. A single-speed automatic is available for about $1,100.

Key standard features are a backup camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, a compact spare tire, traction control, automatic on-off headlights, variable intermittent wipers, a 7.0-inch infotainment display, a WiFi hotspot, Bluetooth, four speakers, cloth seats, a 60/40 split-folding back row, floor mats, manual controls, and air conditioning.

The 1LT adds cruise control, alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, power controls, remote keyless entry, an alarm, and heated side mirrors for roughly $15,500.

The ACTIV is the sportiest choice, with black exterior accents, a unique grille, rugged plastic bumpers, fog lamps, wheel flares, and roof rails for approximately $16,500. Inside are leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Stepping up to the 2LT adds a few more amenities for its $17,000 starting price. There are rear parking sensors, push-button start, and chrome accents.

Optional driver safety technologies include automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning.

Though it is Chevrolet's smallest car, the Spark features many of the attributes customers have come to appreciate about the long-running American automaker. The dashboard and instrument panel have a rounded and modern style, with manual HVAC controls, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a handful of physical audio controls. Beneath the center stack is cupholders and a small well for holding snacks or a smartphone.

Even the entry-level LS trim comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless internet hotspot, making it a superb value for those who care about multimedia. Yet, there aren't many other technologies in the LS. The windows and door locks are manual, and the steering wheel lacks any media buttons.

The 1LT includes those items, while upper trims add soft leatherette upholstery. The headroom and legroom in the front row are very good. Those in the back have pretty good space, too, considering the Spark's tiny size. The standard cargo capacity is smaller than sedan alternatives, but folding down the rear seats gives users an impressive 27.2 cubic feet. No sedan comes close in that regard.