Although the segment has cooled in the U.S. (for now at least) that factor isn’t stopping Chevrolet from developing top-notch subcompact product. The 2016 Chevrolet Spark bowed at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, and after some time to mull the car over, we’ve compiled five things we quite like about the smallest vehicle to wear the Chevrolet bowtie.
1. The Grown-Up Looks
The previous-generation Chevrolet Spark wasn’t a bad looking car, but the design was probably a little too quirky for some buyers to bring one home. We described the new looks of the 2016 Chevrolet Spark as a kid growing out of its attention-grabbing apparel, and into something a tad more appropriate. Aging is one thing, aging gracefully is another.
2. The 1.4-Liter Packing Extra Ponies
So, the 2016 Spark isn’t a sports car, but the car could certainly do with some extra power. And Chevrolet appeased this. The outgoing 1.2-liter four-banger is swapped for a new 1.4-liter EcoTec four-cylinder. Outgoing horsepower ratings held the car at 98 hp, while the new engine musters about 16 more hp. Even the most pedestrian of car buyers will appreciate the added zip.
3. Added Efficiency Without A Turbocharger
Forced induction is all the rage these days. No matter the automaker, it’s certain a turbocharger is replacing displacement for equal oomph, and added fuel economy. Not the 2016 Chevrolet Spark. The 1.4-liter delivers an estimated 40 mpg when paired with the optional CVT. Not to mention, this means 87 octane is all the 2016 Spark will ever have to sip.
4. A New Seven-Inch Touchscreen Unit Is Included
If you’ve ever been inside the current Chevrolet Spark, you’ll notice a lot of focus is placed on the infotainment. As a hip, trendy car, it only made sense to include a touchscreen infotainment system, even foregoing a CD player. Kids don’t use CDs anymore if you weren’t aware. The current unit is a little clumsy, however. Remedying that is a new seven-inch Chevrolet MyLink unit with the inclusion of 4G LTE wireless capability. Now, the kids can stream their music and refresh their timelines.
5. There’s A Manual Gearbox Option
Chevrolet gives a shift. The manual gearbox is a dying trend, but the little Spark hangs on with the option of a five-speed manual unit. Actually, it’s the default unit before stepping into the CVT. We’ll have to reserve judgement on how the transmission performs for later, but the fact it’s available keeps those who like to row their own content. There are some of us still out here.
Comments
I know you write for GM, but let’s be real, 16 horsepower is not that much difference. You failed to mention that the headlight and taillights have changed and shorter to make it look more like the Hyundai Accent. The vehicle is a remake of the Opel Karl. I have the 2015 Spark 5 speed. It’s different I like it.
Will,
GM Authority has absolutely no association with General Motors, and we are completely independent. Styling is, as stated, subjective to any. But overall, we quite like its new look. Glad you enjoy your five-speed Spark!
Cheers,
Sean
That pedal on the left…. is this this the last non performance GM car to have one? Or does the new Cruze retain a manual option?
I think they should make the sparks a little bit smaller still. And add better gas mileage because it is a small car. I have a 2015 spark, red. I do love it however. I can park practically in any parking spot
Just bought my 2016 Electric Blue Spark LT Manual yesterday. I absolutely love the car. I can report I am staying around 38mpg and that’s with a fair amount of spirited driving involved. As for the manual transmission, the clutch and shifter feel great. My only complaint is that the gas pedal is to close to the center console making it very cumbersome to heal toe properly. The upside is the gas and brake pedals are close enough to big toe little toe, if that’s even a thing. The car could do well with an RS variant that really focuses on dialing in the suspension. The ride is good enough but there is a bit of body sway due to the height of the car in relation to clearance. I definitely plan on squating the car down at least an inch and a half on some coilovers and upgrading the wheels to some 17s. All in all I love this car!
I love the new looks, wasn’t a fan of the last one. My sister in law just bought one. I like it a lot, tons of new features at a reasonable price. I will agree with the guy who said there needs to be an rs version. It is SLOW! They should drop in a 1.4t from a sonic. They would be awesome!