2013 Chevrolet Spark is Small in Size, Big on Fuel Efficiency

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark and 2013 Chevrolet Spark Electric bring new competition to the affordable subcompact market. The vehicle has been selling well internationally for a few years now, and Chevy now hopes to replicate that success in the United States. Keep reading to learn more about the 2013 Chevy Spark and see how it stacks up against top competitors. 

Styling: 2013 Chevrolet Spark

There's no denying the diminutive stature of the 2013 Spark. Over a foot shorter than the already-compact Chevrolet Sonic, the Chevrolet Spark is now the smallest vehicle in Chevy's stable. Dimensions are just a tad bigger than that of the FIAT 500 and Scion iQ – two vehicles you might want to take a look at if you're interested in the Spark. 

Compared to the international Spark model, the U.S. model receives styling tweaks such as larger headlights and a more aggressive front fascia. Inside, the Spark proves to make efficient use of its limited dimensions. In fact, front passengers will likely find little to complain about in terms of comfort. Trunk space comes in at 11.4 cubic feet. This figure is clearly far from cavernous, but it does best the storage capabilities of the Scion iQ and Fiat 500.

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Performance: 2013 Chevrolet Spark

The Chevrolet Spark receives a 1.2-liter inline-four engine that manages 85 horsepower and 82 lb-ft. of torque. Those power figures may not look impressive, but those numbers prove to be fairly adequate given the vehicle's lightweight frame (manual transmission models weigh just 2,269 lbs.). Still, the vehicle is best reserved for city driving, given that it takes the Spark about 10 seconds to ramp up to 60 mph. As a comparison, the Fiat 500 and Scion iQ both offer a little extra power under the hood.

Official fuel figures have yet to be released, but Chevy promises competitive mileage in the range of 30 mpg in the city and close to 40 mpg on the highway.  Chevrolet also promises to release an all-electric version of the Spark. However, this anti-gas model won't be available until later in the production year.

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Pricing and Features: 2013 Chevrolet Spark

Affordability is a big draw for the all-new Chevy Spark. With a base MSRP of $12,995 (including destination charges), the Spark proves to be very competitively priced. In fact, you'll have to pony up about $3,000 more to step into a Scion iQ or Fiat 500. Standard features for the Spark include air conditioning, power windows and auxiliary input. The subcompact also comes with brake assist, traction control and 10 airbags – an impressive safety package given the initial asking price. 

Chevy promises two trim upgrade packages. The Spark 1LT comes in at $14,495 and includes a 7-inch touchscreen radio, Chevrolet MyLink, Bluetooth, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, USB port and satellite radio. The Chevy Spark 2LT adds exterior embellishments, leatherette seats, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Asking price for the 2LT is set at $15,795.

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