General Motors launches limited edition of Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark Review by Expert

It was the year 2007 that witnessed the initial launch of General Motors’ Chevrolet Spark in India. The introduction of this proper compact car from American giant came into existence at the time when company was suffering sluggish sales of their sedans and Chevrolet Tavera MUV was only one, doing a decent job in the country. The first city car Spark came and conquered the an adequate market share in the crowded small car segment that comprised of Maruti Zen Estilo, Hyundai Santro and many others.

Globally, this Chevrolet Spark is the second generation car, while the first generation was Daewoo Matiz. The Matiz is the same Korean small car that was launched in the country in 1998 in competition with Hyundai Santro, however, due to stiff challenge from carmakers like Maruti and Hyundai it had to withdraw from India after facing years of downfall.

The Chevrolet Spark is sensibly small vehicle with modern looks and fuel-efficient engine along with suitable space for 4 adults, which is considered as a benchmark for small cars. Looking at the car one feels warmth and sophistication with its remarkable frame-work that is uniquely done. The chic headlamps and cleverly inserted indicators add up to the style quotient and with sleek satin silver roof rails at the top bestows it a sporty and robust feel.

The Chevrolet Spark interiors are really impressive with beige interiors that have high roof-line for better headroom. The front row has centre console that is stuffed with uncomplicated features and dashboard has right storage spaces. Moreover, the handy aspects include power windows, headlamp leveler and glove box. The safety in Chevrolet Spark is ample, considering the fact that it’s a small car.   

The 995cc advanced SMARTECH engine ensures that the power and torque output is accurate at low speeds too in order to make traffic filled city drive smooth. Along with power apt, this refined petrol engine also delivers promising fuel efficiency figures.

Currently, Chevrolet Spark awaits its first facelift that is expected to be launched by this yearend. There are chances that the new model will be more fuel efficient than the existing one, alongside a new frontage and many added features inside the cabin are projected in the improved Chevrolet Spark.

Chevrolet Spark Rivals

The cute little American car that is steadily securing decent market share will be here by 25th October 2012. With its 1.0L petrol engine it has nearly no head on competition but when it comes to pricing it falls nearby some very famous 800cc cars that are Hyundai Eon and lately launched Maruti Alto 800. It is the smallest Chevy car and tagged as mass segment mover in India by General Motors, as a result it rivals all small cars be it the one that falls in similar price segment or competitive engine displacement.

Chevrolet Spark vs Hyundai Eon

Hyundai Eon has got exteriors that follow fluidic ideology of the Korean car maker in a gorgeous manner. While New Spark appears pretty bold especially from its new grille and wide bumpers.  The sides have flowing cues all over Eon, while Spark remains uncomplicated, while overall dimensions are nearly same. The style approach of both cars is different that lets you choose as per your taste and preference.

No sooner it was launched the interiors of Eon were talk-of-the-town as it possessed sheer premiumness, while the ‘said’ high-price tag looked subdued.  The quality of fabrics, finish levels, plastics and build quality is pretty good giving out ‘more’ than value for money. All this is bestow in Chevrolet Spark too, but the design engineering separates the two. Rear seat space has been issue with small cars but not with Hyundai Eon and Spark as both provide proper leg room and headroom; however seats are cozier with Eon against Spark’s durable.

New Chevy Spark carries 995cc MPFI petrol engine, albeit Eon has 814cc displacement. Looking at the power and torque output Spark is ahead by around 8PS and 15Nm. With these numbers, Eon promises decent city drive, but when it comes to speedy and in-control highway drives Chevrolet Spark sparks brilliantly. The two cars are also available in LPG variants that make them perfect dual-fuel cars. Be it city mileage or longer routes Hyundai Eon returns amazing economy, whereas Chevy small car stands on the lower side, but promising.
 

Chevrolet Spark vs Maruti Alto 800

From the exteriors one can identify the solid built quality of New Chevrolet Spark, while with new Maruti Alto 800 the satisfactory design factor comes in with freshness all over. Compare to Alto 800 Spark is a bit tall, while in wheel base length Alto 800. The front now spells cuteness on the other hand New Spark’s front screams boldness. Hence it’s a matter of choice when it comes to choosing design and dimensions, whether one wants an aggressive sleek design or gorgeous-sort.

The interior quality has bettered with arrival of new version Alto 800; however with new theme inside Spark is also reborn. The interior space of Chevy is accurate with much acceptable leg and head room, meanwhile the space has augmented by some mm’s but still it continues the discomfort of occupants at rear row. The features and convenient elements are more in Spark in comparison to Alto 800. Moreover safety has improved in Maruti car with optional air bag and many others, here Spark offers no airbag but concrete built quality alongside many other features.   

The engine of Chevrolet Spark is peppier against Maruti Alto 800’s frugal powertrain that puts up a good show against Spark, as seen in tables below. Furthermore on the performance part there is no match to Chevrolet’s 1.0L 4-cylinder MPFI engine as it bestows racy numbers. Another fuel option is CNG with Alto 800 and LPG with Spark, here Maruti has upper hand as it has more frugal choice at hand, but the reach is limited to major cities, so the tables turn towards less frugal but accessible LPG alternative that exits in both Tier II cities and major ones.
 
 

Chevrolet Spark Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

The mini car Chevrolet Spark has got petrol as fuel along with the LPG alternative that makes it a dual-fuel small car. The success in India; be it among private owners or fleet operators, has been its consistent delivery of decent mileage numbers. Here with petrol as fuel the Chevrolet Spark comes out with a mileage of 14 kmpl in the city drives, which is commendable, alongside the figure of 18 kmpl when driven on the longer routes i.e. highways. Furthermore with same 995cc engine Chevrolet Spark LPG delivers mileage of 10.5 km/kg in traffic ridden city conditions, while an unmatched 13.2 km/kg can be achieved on the smooth highways. These fuel economy numbers are class leading ones when compared to the other small cars in the segment.

Chevrolet Spark Models and Features

Compare Chevrolet Spark Models

Chevrolet Spark Colors

Velvet Red	Summit White	Misty Lake	Caviar Black	Sanddrift Grey	Linen Beige

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Chevrolet Spark Engine, Power and Performance

Chevrolet Spark is loaded with advanced technology SMARTECH engine which provide the car with more power and torque at lesser speed to compete in congested traffic as well as on highways. This SMARTECH engine has many advanced technologies like Sequential MPFI, Dual Distributor less ignition system (DDLI), and Motorized Throttle Intake System (MTIS) and advanced optical sensors which result in smooth operation of engine providing fuel efficiency, power & maintenance free mechanism.

The 1.0 Litre SOCH petrol engine in all petrol variants provide maximum power & torque of 63 PS @ 5400 rpm & 90.3 Nm @ 4200 rpm respectively whereas its 1.0 L, 4 cylinder, 8V SOHC MPFI engine in its LPG variants provides maximum power & torque of 60 PS @ 5400 rpm & 88.4 Nm @ 4200 rpm respectively which indicated that this car is a power machine and can make you fly while driving.

Chevrolet Spark Pickup and Acceleration

Chevrolet Spark gives the sparking pickup & acceleration which makes this car justified to be purchased at this price. The petrol variants give excellent maximum power of 63 Ps @ 5400 rpm and a maximum torque of  90.3 Nm @ 4200 rpm whereas its LPG variants yield 60 Ps @ 5400 rpm & 88.4 Nm @ 4200 rpm maximum power & torque respectively which shows the strength of the engine. 5 speed manual transmission which enlarges the fuel efficiency and torque of Chevrolet Spark. Chevrolet Spark exhibits its pick up & acceleration as the car goes 0 – 100 Km / h just in 14.8 seconds with its petrol engine whereas the LPG variant require 16.2 seconds to reach the same speed. The top speed shows the rapidity of this car as the petrol variants have intense speed of 146 Km / h on the other hand LPG variants have top speed of 133 Km / h which sway its lovers in graceful way.

Chevrolet Spark Interiors and Features

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark is about to launch in a week but its major amends have been spied by many auto buffs. New Chevrolet Spark sports fresh looking up market interiors adds charm to all its variants and has evolved in terms of quality and finishing. The size of the cabin is quite roomy considering rival small cars in the segment. With its two-tone beige it provides an airy feel to the occupants and helps in making New Chevrolet Spark interiors much appealing. With its high roofline and prudent interior design the head room and legroom aspect becomes comfortable, while there is enough space at rear seat.
 

The front row has many features to explore starting with a decent dashboard and large glove compartment. Next to the dash is appealing centre console that has silver accents on edges, while carries circular AC vents that maintain proper cooling inside the cabin. Moreover the 1-DIN music player that plays MP3/FM/MW comes with support of USB and Aux-in, whilst Bluetooth connectivity feature is the latest addition in the entertainment department, that has 4-speakers (2-front and 2-rear) for surround sound. Moving forward is the restyled instrument cluster that has electronic multi-trip meter alongside large speedometer with many digital warning and indicators. The novel designed steering looks premium this time in company with gear shift knob that has silver/chrome inserts.

The seating is now more comfortable with use of quality fabric and manually adjustable head restraints for front seats. The driver’s seat comes with reclining features and 2-way adjustable. There are loads of convenient cubby holes and pockets to hold your belongings at front and rear row. In order to increase the cargo space at rear the seats fold into 60:40 split. Some other handy elements are power steering for an effortless drive which makes you enjoy the drive and also power windows in front and rear side offer you ease on the go. In addition other hassle free aspects include cigarette lighter and a detachable ashtray, remote trunk / boot opener and remote fuel lid opener, low fuel warning light, outside temperature display, bottle holder and seat back shopping hooks.

Chevrolet Spark Exteriors and Features

With its trendy & sturdy looks every section of this car gains interest in it. And now with some amazing exterior work that came in as result of facelift model the New Chevrolet Spark looks enchanting and properly in line with its rivals. The dimensions though are same but with its new powerful stance it appears grown up. The New Chevrolet Spark is designed aerodynamically to reduce air resistance, especially to increase fuel efficiency and maximize speed.

The front has clear glass headlights with exclusive detailing and smooth bonnet line. There is premium looking chrome work on the unique twin slat grille that is a part of all new Chevy brand vehicles across the globe. Between the chrome garnished front-grille there is bigger Chevrolet ‘bowtie’ that roars the dare. Meanwhile there is new and elegant fog lamp housing, borrowed from sibling Chevrolet Beat, on reworked dual tone front bumpers along with novel air vents making it look complete.

The sides of Chevrolet Spark have solid looks with sporty roof rails and body colored door handles that appear magical when accompanied by body colored ORVMs. The wheel arches spell creativity, whereas the broader tyres with artistic alloy wheel design spread solidarity. The orderliness at the Chevrolet Spark rear is pretty visible as it gets tail lamps cluster restyled with clear side indicator lamps. While the dual tone body colored rear bumper now houses multi reflector for safety at night together with an integrated sleek rear roof spoiler.

Safety Features in Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet has always kept in mind for the safer state while a drive so it has come up with unexpected technology and secures intentions. Chevrolet Spark has come up with air bags on the driver’s side which increases the safety aim of driver and reduces chances of injury at the time of mishap. At the time of crash the body of the car also has a keen role as 51 percent of the body is made of tough steel. For boosting side protection this car has Tailor – Welded Blanks which are normally used in luxurious cars. This car has ground breaking interior design which increases the comfort, efficiency & safety of the user. The fuel and other safety gadgets on the speedometer are placed very sensibly that they are detectable by every passenger. The LPG variant is loaded by ECE – R32 (rear end collision safe) which at the time of crash from rear side prevents big damages. Door Ajar warning display safeguards that if any door is not open. Lastly the car is provided with the front seat belts as every other car for the safety of the passengers.

Driving & Handling of Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark has highlighted the Driving & handling part with its world famous McPherson suspension in the front side of the car and with torsion beam axel on the rear side which make the drive jerk less, smooth and easy going. With front solid disc brakes & rear self adjusting drum brakes organize the drive in controlled way. The front shockers are Gas filled and rear shockers are hydraulic filled which makes the drive less bumpier and regular for the passengers. It lets you grip on the slipperiest of road and balances the car and prevents the accident or collision. It does not let the car skid even in the emergency situation.

Chevrolet Spark Accessories

As far as stereo is concerned Chevrolet Spark is loaded with 2 DIN audio system yielding an incomparable sound quality with the help of four speakers which gives the magical output and makes the drive amusing. The audio system includes a CD player, Mp3 player, AUX in and USB system which helps to listen to large variety of music in a drive and relax the mind during long journey.

Chevrolet Spark Conclusion

The remarkable small car, Chevrolet Spark, from General Motors has been playing an essential role in the sales of US based auto maker in India. Though, being a steal from Daewoo Motors, called Matiz hatch, it has actually converted the dud into dude. The ride quality and balancing of Chevrolet Spark at high speeds is pretty good, which is usually a worry in small cars. Chevrolet Spark small car is rated as the most agile and able small car in the small car in the segment that comprise of Maruti Alto K10 and Hyundai Eon. Moreover it will be interesting to see how it battles with the upcoming Maruti hot-seller Maruti Alto 800 in the country that will launch on 16th October. Again, here GM is ready to accept the challenge with its upgraded New Chevrolet Spark launch that is scheduled an inch ahead of Maruti Alto 800 launch i.e. 15th October 2012.

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