Chevrolet Spark Car Information And Photos

Chevrolet Spark Car Information

The Chevrolet Spark (originally born as the Daewoo Matiz) was one of the most recognizable city cars globally, known for its tiny footprint, "tall-boy" design, and extreme affordability.

As of 2026, the Spark has been officially discontinued in almost all major markets. Production ended in August 2022 to make room for Chevrolet's transition toward SUVs and electric vehicles.

- Key Evolution & Generations -

The Spark went through several phases, evolving from a quirky budget hatch to a modern, tech-focused subcompact.

Generation	Timeline	Key Characteristics
1st Gen	1998–2005	Originally the Daewoo Matiz; iconic round headlights and 0.8L engine.
2nd Gen	2005–2009	Minor styling updates; introduced more safety features globally.
3rd Gen	2009–2015	The "Transformer" era (featured in the movie). Sharp lines and hidden rear door handles.
4th Gen	2016–2022	Final version; more "grown-up" styling, 1.4L engine, and modern tech like Apple CarPlay.

Technical Overview (Final Gen)

If you are looking at a used model (2016–2022), here is what you can typically expect:

Engine: $1.4\text{L}$ ECOTEC 4-cylinder.

Output: Approximately 98 hp and 94 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: Impressive city efficiency, averaging around 30-33 MPG combined.

Technology: Even base models often included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety: Surprisingly robust for its size, featuring 10 standard airbags and available forward-collision warnings.

- Buying a Used Spark: What to Know -

Since you can now only buy these on the used market, here’s a quick reality check:

The Good

Ease of Parking: Its turning radius is legendary; it fits into spots most SUVs wouldn't dare approach.

Modern Amenities: Unlike many older budget cars, late-model Sparks feel relatively modern inside.

Affordability: One of the cheapest ways to get a car with a "modern" infotainment system and decent safety ratings.

The Bad

Rear Space: The back seat is extremely cramped for adults; it's better suited for groceries or a very small dog.

Highway Power: Merging onto high-speed interstates requires a "lead foot" and some patience—it is not built for speed.

Cargo Capacity: With the rear seats up, the trunk space is minimal.

Note on the Spark EV: There was a fully electric version sold in limited quantities (2014–2016). It was a "torque monster" with 327 lb-ft of torque, but it has a very limited range (about 82 miles), making it a strict city-only vehicle.