Sitting as the outcast from the family of Red Line concept vehicles Chevrolet will bring to the 2015 SEMA show is the 2016 Chevrolet Spark RS concept. The brand uses the term “concept” loosely here, as the car sits production ready, but previews a sporty treatment for the most pint-sized of Chevy vehicles.
“Every Chevrolet has the DNA of the Corvette and the Spark RS concept shows how the brand’s smallest car can deliver big on personalization,” said Todd Parker, director of design, Global Chevrolet. “It advances the RS heritage and interprets it in an entirely new way.”
The 2016 Spark RS concept hosts a carbon-fiber splitter rocker, extensions and a carbon-fiber rear-lower extension. The neatest part of the 2016 Spark RS concept are the 17-inch wheels, which the brand says are inspired by the 2016 C7 Corvette Z06‘s Z07 package, and a lowered suspension allows the wheels to really fill out the wheel space.
Chevrolet was straightforward in its announcement of the 2016 Spark RS concept. It will be keeping an eye on public opinion to gauge interest for a production Spark RS variant. So, if your heart desires such a thing, make it heard here. Chevrolet is watching.
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Comments
Not sure how much horsepower G2SC can handle… but if GM wants to take on Fiesta ST… more would be better.
I think that’s more of Sonic’s job. Since the spark is more of a minicar than subcompact.
Do it, but please not just an appearance package, add the 1.4t and a have a 6 spd. It would be a great Abarth competitor.
Sadly, this seems like just an appearance package that mirrors its bigger brother, Sonic RS. If anything is changed in the drivetrain, the final drive will have a steeper ratio at the expense of MPG, (Like the Sonic RS).
I’m hoping the 2017 Sonic RS gets either the 1.5T or the new Direct Injected 1.4T (that’s in the Encore Touring)… or even something better.
Well, the RS should get more power. I think the 1.6T in the Buick Cascada should go in the Sonic RS. The 1.4T in the 2016 Cruze that makes 153HP should go in the Spark RS.
^ This.
The 1.6T is good for 200HP which would put the Sonic RS very competitively with the Fiesta ST at around 14lb/HP. The 1.4T in the Spark RS would be about 15.5lb/hp – not tire shredding, but nothing to sneeze at.
For comparison, the SC 3800 V-6 of the 2000’s is pretty much the 350 small block of that generation. at 240 – 280 HP stock, the power/weight ratios were similar in the cars they were mated with. Grand Prix GTP’s still have a strong aftermarket and a devoted following. Chevy could build a great image with a new generation of small car performance by offering the 1.6T in the Sonic RS and 1.4T in the Spark RS.
They really are missing a opportunity to build in a segment they will really to grow in the future if they plan on keeping performance anywhere around.
This does not need to be a monster killer but it really could use some more HP.
If it isn’t a Camaro, SS, or Corvette, GM doesn’t want to think about a performance version. 🙁
I agree with you that GM is throwing away market share and luring new customers to the brand.
Finally , a superb longer balanced design with hidden rear side door openers . The body creases add some zip to the appearance . The key here will be what upgraded engine/drivetrain will be installed !
I really like the concept. The RS package as an appearance kit is great, but I think the package should also include a more powerful engine, something like a 1.1 Turbo from Opel. I own a Sonic Turbo and LOVE it! This would kick up the whole package a notch. In my case, I would have to chose an automatic. If the CVT can handle the extra power, well ok, but I’d love to see a 7 speed DCT with paddles. That would make it a truly fun ride!
As an owner of 2014 Sonic RS, I can tell you the 2016 Spark RS looks fantastic! I would totally buy this car, and they should bring it into production as soon as they can! I especially like the “Dark Liquid Switchblade Silver” color, the amazing wheels, and the carbon fiber accents… it’s just outstanding!
Everyone needs to keep in mind that the RS packages are nothing more than appearance groups. When you buy an RS, you are buying it for looks rather than performance. The car will look and feel sportier, but you’re not gaining any power or performance. Another downside is that while the RS models look great, they usually come at a high cost. My Sonic RS cost $24,000 new, which was a super high price to pay.
Currently, the 2016 Spark starts at $12,660 for the LS Manual through $17,285 for the 2LT with the CVT. Most will probably want the 5-speed manual transmission, and with this setup, the 2LT is $16,185. If Chevy can keep the price under $20,000 for an RS Spark, it may be worth it. The wheel/tire upgrade alone must cost about $2K, not to mention the carbon fiber accents, sill extensions, stripes, etc. The trouble is buyers in this segment are looking to save money. Assuming Chevy does indeed ask close to $20K for the RS Spark, that’s roughly $7K worth of options.
Nevertheless, the car sure is a looker and I have my eyes set on it!
I am a owner of a 2013 sonic RS , I have a 2002 2500 HD Chevy AND A 2007 Colorado extreme . I would buy this ! Please have a 6 speed Manual and a little more horse power. But please I hate the dash on my sonic.
I think there should be one. If Chevrolet is not keeping the Sonic, then more likely there should be one. I think the Cruze Hatchback (RS) can be tuned to compete with the Focus ST. And the Spark, if they’re going to replace the Sonic. It’ll be great to slap a 1.4 Turbo with 160HP. If Fiat can do it, I am sure GM can. But knowing GM, I feel they’ll most likely do a visual treatment. If they could sport tune the Spark I am sure they’ll be able to create a corner hugging pocket rocket.
I would love a Spark RS. I want to get the new spark but if the RS comes out after I get one I’ll be a little upset.
I own a 2016 Spark LS and love it. I would love if they come out with an RS version, I’d most likely buy that when it comes time to buy another car.
Also, it would be nice if they offered an RS package to current 4th gen model owners, and it would also be nice if the price could be added to my current loan.
I just stumbled upon this as I am looking for exterior accessories to customize my 2018 Spark. If someone sees this and have possible good links to businesses online where I could purchase side skirts, spoilers, etc I would appreciate it!
A car from GM that can compete against the Mini, Arbarth, and Fiesta ST, yet with OnStar? Yes please!