When we hear Chevrolet, big intimidating SUVs or pick-up trucks instantly come into mind. But in early 2000s, the golden bow tie brand wanted to provide the basic transport requirements for those who needed to get in and around town.
A change of ambition came with Chevrolet’s new city car – The Chevrolet Spark. It is sold not just in Asia, but also in Europe, America, and Australia. Badged variously as a Chevrolet or a Holden.
EXTERIOR
Matched to previous models, Chevrolet gave the Spark a new front grille and distinctive front headlamps. Having been refreshed with a more dynamic look, the subcompact comes with projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Several chrome accents for the front end are also available, designed to give the car a more sparkling personality. Not to mention, the Caribbean blue metallic stands out beautifully.
The new edition is actually somewhat longer in its wheelbase and faintly lower to the ground, giving it a slightly sleeker, more elegant appearance.
INTERIOR
Despite its compact proportions, the Spark is surprisingly spacious in the front seat, with plenty of shoulder, hip, and leg room, even for taller drivers and passengers. It may be decent in the front but the rear passengers might feel packed (especially if you have more than 2 regular-sized adults in the back seat), and cargo volume is limited.
The Spark has a good amount of standard technology features that is not overwhelming and are mostly easy to use, including a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
Yes, it is a small vehicle, but the interior layout is efficient. The piano-black panels try to liven things up, but there are plenty of cut-rate touches, like the ordinary plastic door latches.
PERFORMANCE
The Chevy Spark's 1.4-liter engine musters only 97 horsepower and 128Nm torque, which may not seem like much unless you're in a drag race with a car like the 3-cylinder Mitsubishi Mirage.
Technically, it is not meant to be a race car or sports car but advances in engine and electronic technology allow 97 ponies to do a lot more today, giving the Spark decent acceleration but still struggling to pass or merge at higher speeds. Being a compact, it is easy to get around with as you are not going to have any trouble maneuvering around traffic. I’ve got to say it’s like driving a go kart, but obviously a lot faster.
The Chevy Spark’s miniscule size, light steering, and small turning radius makes it so enjoyable in city driving but at the same time makes it a bit uncomfortable when sharing a highway with 18-wheelers or strong wind gusts as the car can feel disconnected at high speeds.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Aside from being explicitly more expensive than the other cars in its segment, the interior is quite uninspiring that prevents the Spark from standing out against rivals, but the Spark’s striking exterior color makes up for it and you do get a fun comfortable ride with incredible fuel economy. On the whole, the 2019 Chevrolet Spark should satisfy most of your needs like running errands from place to place.
Price for the 1.4L DOHC DVVT, LTZ CVT is 734,888php
For more information, visit www.chevrolet.com.ph
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