The 2016 Chevrolet Spark is completely redesigned. Coming packed with safety and technology that is usually not available in subcompact cars makes the Spark extremely popular worldwide; launched in over 40 markets and reaching up to more than 1 million global sales.
The pricing of the Spark makes it Canada’s latest, cheapest car. Coming in at an MSRP of $9995 makes it a whole $3 cheaper than the Nissan Micra (MSRP $9998). Despite this price cut, the Spark does not lack any of the standard features found in most of today’s road cars such as (10) standard air bags, ABS brakes and even a standard back-up camera. Additional features on the 2016 Spark include a lane departure warning, a blind spot warning system and a forward collision alert. Branding the Spark for a more technologically inclined demographic, Chevy has an optional 7 inch touch screen with phone integration and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
To further the attraction of the target market, Chevrolet has added a new array of bold colours for the Spark including Toasted Marshmallow, Kalamata and Splash. The 2016 generation has a sleeker appearance with a slimmed down roof line to reduce the “upright look” that most subcompact/mini cars have. A longer wheelbase, and a a lower ride height than the previous model add to the appearance and improve the driving characteristics. Additionally, the lower profile reduces aerodynamic drag to improve efficiency. Despite the trimming down of the exterior, the interior has been made more spacious due to the longer wheelbase and specific adjustments made to the seats.
For 2016, the Spark comes with a 1.4L Ecotec engine. Being redesigned, it now features more aluminum parts to reduce overall mass, but also experiences a 16% increase in horsepower (98 HP) over the last model. A 5 speed manual is standard on the Spark with a dual-range continuously variable transmission available with the new 1.4L.