The next generation Chevrolet Spark has been spied again during cold weather testing in Europe, this time by CarScoops.
The new Spark, due out in 2015, will replace the current model which has been sold in some areas of the globe since 2009. Not much is known about the next-generation hatchback, but it has been confirmed that it will arrive in the first half of 2015.
Thanks to the Spark’s heavy camouflage, the spy shots don’t show too much. However, it’s easy to make out the door handles, which have been moved from their former position, inlaid into the rear passenger door, back to a regular spot on the side of the doors. While the position of the current Spark’s rear door handles gives it a fun, quirky vibe, the more conventional door handle position might help it appeal to a wider-ranging audience.
If the Spark has lost its unique rear door handles, it seems that the new Chevrolet Sonic could do the same. The replacement Sonic was originally due out in 2015, but has since been delayed until 2016.
Comments
Well, crap… I liked the door handles. Especially with the Sonic, it helped the car to look more sporty. I really hope this isn’t a sign of growing bean counter influence. I can’t see where many people would be turned off of buying a Spark or Sonic because of this, nor can I see where the unique handles would have any significant increase in cost.
Never really understood why the handles would be placed up on the door, especially on CUV/SUV where smaller kids are more likely to be getting in the back. Obviously it makes for a cleaner look, but manufacturers could also just use flush-mount handles and almost achieve the same look
The Spark should be powered by a 1.0L Turbo I3 (VVT, SIDI and iVVL) with 120HP and 135FT-LBS.
The Sonic and Cruze should be powered by:
1.2L Turbo I3 Hybrid (VVT, SIDI and iVVL) with 140HP and 150FT-LBS
1.4L Turbo I4 (VVT, SIDI and iVVL) with 175HP and 190FT-LBS
1.8L Turbo I4 (VVT, SIDI and iVVL) with 240HP and 285FT-LBS
As for design, I hope Chevrolet can still make them look attractive and sleek without those rear door handles (which I personally love). The interior is critical in this segment and Chevy needs to put some good interiors in these cars. The Sonic is a good example, but still needs some work. .
The Spark EV has 185 HP and 400 ft-lbs of torque. Why bother with gas?
@raymondjram because a lot of people enjoy driving more than 82 miles. Why do you think? Limited range EVs are still very much a secondary vehicle