We’re lucky enough to live in a world where for every person, every purpose, and every situation, there’s a vehicle. While families pack into SUVs and pickup trucks are ready for light and heavy-duty alike, not everyone needs a whole lot of car. In fact, for the urban go-getter, the 2020 Chevy Spark provides just the right amount of space, oomph, and fun to fit in perfectly with rapidly changing surroundings.
The Chevy Spark hit the US market in 2012, just as Smart Cars were revolutionizing the way we thought about modern short-distance transportation. As it turns out, the public was craving exactly what the Spark could deliver: A super-compact, fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient, low-maintenance ride that could jet around the city streets without draining the wallet, maneuver into tiny parking spots, and still have enough power for a highway trip into the suburbs.
The 2020 Chevy Spark continues to ride the vibe of fun and freedom, adding a host of safety and technological updates that have your back, and introducing some kicky new colors that celebrate the independent spirit inside us all. With four distinct trim packages, Spark delivers everything the urban dweller needs, with no wasteful extras to bog down the driver on the move. This free spirit is surprisingly business-like and efficient.
The 2020 Chevy Spark: Power to Go
This year’s model is part of the second generation of Spark, which was introduced in 2015, and while many of the tweaks are minor, it is clear that Chevy knows their audience with this small vehicle. As a subcompact hatchback, Spark includes a decent amount of power and efficiency, with a relatively affordable price tag.
Each model is equipped with a 1.4L inline-4 engine, which provides a substantial amount of power, compared to the size of the vehicle it moves. With 98 hp and 94 lb-ft of torque, the Spark isn’t going to tow a boat. Instead, it’s going to offer a fuel economy of 29 miles per gallon city and 38 miles per gallon highway when equipped with the standard 5-speed manual transmission, or 30 miles per gallon city and 38 miles per gallon highway with the optional continuously variable automatic transmission. This is excellent fuel-efficiency for both the earth and your wallet.
The Urban Free Spirit
At first glance, the 2020 Chevy Spark appears to be a two-door subcompact vehicle. In fact, it is a four-door model, with the rear door handles incorporated into the doors. This gives the Spark a sportier, more coupe-like appearance, while still offering adult back seat passengers the ability to get in and out of the vehicle easily.
Despite giving the appearance of tight quarters, the Spark offers a surprising amount of room, with ample headroom for four adults. While this is not the type of vehicle that will allow multiple passengers to stretch out and recline during lengthy road trips, it does comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo. With all seats occupied, the hatchback area offers 11.1 cubic feet of space for stuff. Folding the 60/40 split rear seat down, more than doubles that space to 27.2 cubic feet- perfect for a run to the local antique market, or a holiday jaunt.
Chevy has also introduced a new lineup of colors for the 2020 model, which include shades that are recognized across the manufacturer’s lineup, such as Nightfall Grey, Mosaic Black, Summit White, and Silver Ice. There are also a few wildcards in there for those who appreciate a bold, festive approach, including Caribbean Blue, Toasted Marshmallow, Raspberry, Orange Burst, Passion Fruit, and Red Hot.
Options to Accentuate Your Life
The 2020 Chevrolet Spark subcompact hatchback is offered in four trim packages, and each practically goes out of its way to make life a little bit easier for drivers.
The base LS comes well equipped with the necessities. It includes standard safety features, such as ten airbags and a rear vision camera, which allows drivers to wiggle into tight parallel parking spots and safely back out of busy parking lots. It’s also equipped with the highly-lauded Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System, featuring a seven-inch diagonal touch screen that provides vehicle information and entertainment options to one central point. The Infotainment System also offers compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers access to their favorite tunes and navigation while on the road. WiFi and OnStar are also provided on this model, with Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker sound system.
The 1LT trim adds the power, appearance, and convenience options that many modern drivers crave, such as windows, mirrors, and locks. Cruise control and keyless remote entry also come standard on this model, adding a touch of “easy.” The 1LT upgrades to a six-speaker sound system, and sports all of the Infotainment bells and whistles that are standard on the base LS model. 15” alloy wheels add to the sporty look of the 1LT Spark. While LED daytime running lights add an additional safety component.
The Spark Activ is so named for its “go get ‘em” attitude, which is engineered into the model through a specially-raised suspension, roof rails, and a boxier, almost-SUV-like visage, complements of its unique bumpers, rocker panel, and fender trim. Inside, drivers will appreciate the deluxe accommodations, which build on the 1LT offerings with heated Jet Black leatherette seats for the driver and front passenger. The steering wheel is also comfort-wrapped in leather. Drivers can choose to add an Interior Protection Package, which offers all-weather floor mats and cargo mats. The Spark Activ is 0.4 inches taller than its siblings, due to its raised suspension; therefore, drivers report a slightly different fuel economy on this model. Offering 29 miles per gallon city and 37 miles per gallon highway for the manual transmission and 30 miles per gallon city and 37 miles per gallon highway for the automatic CVT transmission, the Activ still offers plenty of miles for the fuel dollar.
At the top of the line is the 2LT Spark. This model offers plenty of safety and convenience options that help drivers keep their bearings in city traffic, and their focus on the road. These features include rear park assist with an audible alert when objects are sensed, rear vision camera, LED daytime running lamps, and tire pressure and oil life monitoring systems. Plus, drivers can choose to include the optional Driver Confidence Program, which adds automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert safety features. Drivers of the 2LT model will also enjoy simulated leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome accents, and an enhanced Driver Information Center with reconfigurable touch screen details. A keyless entry system is available on this model, as well.
Feeling Sparks with Chevy
For over 100 years, Chevrolet has been manufacturing vehicles that Americans trust. In the 21st century, the venerable manufacturer has been able to engineer an impressive array of vehicles that meet the needs of nearly every niche. From heavy-duty trucks that can tow and haul massive loads to eight-passenger SUVs that can shuttle the whole family, Chevy designers demonstrate their understanding of every niche. With the 2020 Spark, it’s clear that even the urban driver gets what they need: a small – yet mighty – vehicle that offers plenty of comfort classics, unparalleled safety features, and plenty of room and power.
