Chevrolet Spark

Summary

Chevrolet Spark happens to be a compact hatchback, which has re-defined the entire level of performance and style in its respective segment. The car comes equipped with a 1.0-litre engine having a displacement of 995 cc. With a maximum power output of 61 bhp and peak torque of 86 Nm, Spark is perhaps not the best value out in general, but certainly one of the best for its respective segment. It is believed that the car a significantly new design, considering other players of the same arena.

Further to this, read Chevrolet Spark Road Test details by our expert.

Exterior

The front fascia of Spark is dropped low with headlamps on both sides featuring LEDs and all other lights. The bumper of Spark is merged with the roof to provide it a sporty look. At the rear end, the taillight cluster has LEDs, turn indicators and courtesy lights. The side profile is embossed with stylish fenders and steel wheels, which together make the entire car an appealing package.

Interior

The inner cabin of Spark is designed using chrome inserts and wood accents. The seats are bigger and exude a homely feel. Its dashboard is finely designed and integrated with functions like air conditioner, steering wheel and audio system. In order to make the drive fulfilling, the car comes fitted with an advanced radio system, featuring stereo, USB and CD player.

Engine and Transmission

Chevrolet Spark comes equipped with a 4 cylinder, BS IV 1.0-litre petrol engine, which has a displacement of 995 cc. The maximum power churned out by this engine stands at 60 bhp with a peak torque output of 87 Nm. To transmit the produced output to its wheels, the car comes equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission system.

Performance and Handling

Chevrolet Spark is a vehicle which has steady and good build. Although the car has a small size and economical engine, it does not lag in terms of pick-up and acceleration. The 1.0-litre engine of this car can smoothly accelerate from initial to 100 kmph within 15 seconds, which seems like a remarkable feat. With this acceleration, the car can clock a top speed of 153 Kmph. Along with a decent output, Spark also returns a decent mileage of 16.2 kmpl. The suspension system is also of top-class quality. The front axle features McPherson strut with anti roll bars while the rear wheels have standard torsion beam axle.

Braking System

Chevrolet Spark comes equipped with a set of brake calipers fitted at both front and rear wheels. Disc brakes are featured at the front wheels while the rear ones are provided with drums.

Mileage

The 995 cc Petrol - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 14 kmpl in city and 16 kmpl on highways.

Safety Features

The high strength body makes Spark a resistant, powerful and protective car that shelters from on-road dangers. Numerous advanced safety features are packed within the model in order to offer a safe drive. There are fog lamps that ensure a safe drive in any weather conditions. The trendy fog lamps not just enhance its exterior looks but also improve the road visibility. Along with, there is X-Pro Safety System wherein 51 per cent of the car’s total weight consists of high-strength steel, which in-turn provides great stability and rigidity while reducing its overall weight. The use of welded blanks in B- pillar reduces the impact of side intrusions, and thus keeps the passengers safe. There are reflector tail lamps at the rear that makes night drive easy and safe by allowing the car to be noticed by other vehicles from a decent distance.

Verdict

Chevrolet Spark is believed to be the replacement for Matiz. The car got decent looks and thus stands out in competition in this respective criterion. Its handling got nothing surprising. This tall car has a small engine which is not very fast. For those who have just started driving, Spark can be a good deal as the seat is at a decent height, offering a nice visibility to the driver. If to be driven in city, the car has sufficient output but on highways, the company needs to do some tuning. At interiors, there is plenty of space however the boot is much small with just 170 liters. The build quality and design at interiors is not outstanding, but the instrumental panel is something unique. Experts believe that these prices, the company must at least offer all power windows and central locking as standard features across all variants.

Competition

Chevrolet Spark competes against the likes of Maruti Suzuki Celerio, Hyundai i10 in the Indian auto market. All these cars are placed in the compact hatch segment and deliver value for money to their buyers, and thus it very difficult to ascertain a clean chit winner from the trio. 

Pros

1. Great performance
2. Attractive exteriors
3. Competitive Price
4. Appealing interiors

Cons

1. Lack comfort features
2. Less mileage
3. Low ground clearance