It wasn’t so long ago that the Chevrolet Aveo seemed to small for American car buyers. But in addition to getting a new name, Sonic, when it was redesigned, the once-smallest Chevy also got larger. So for 2013 Chevrolet is introducing an even smaller car, the Spark.
How much smaller? Compared to the Sonic, the Spark has a half-foot less between its wheels, 14.3 inches less overall length, and 5.4 inches less width. But it is 1.3 inches taller; a higher seating position enables a touch more legroom within the car’s much smaller footprint. The Spark is also 299 pounds lighter. Good thing, as its 1.2-liter engine kicks out only 84 horsepower, compared to the Sonic’s 138 (tops in its class). The Spark’s highway fuel economy, 38, is no better than you’ll find in a number of much larger cars, but its city rating of 32 is among the best for a non-hybrid.
So, does small mean cheap? Somewhat, but perhaps not to the degree you’d expect. The Spark starts at $12,995, but most people will want additional features included with the $14,495 LT (cruise, power mirrors, power locks with remote, Bluetooth). A/C, power windows, and ten airbags are standard even with the LS. A Sonic is about $2,500 more.
The FIAT 500 and MINI Cooper are the only other similarly-sized hatchbacks offered in the U.S. and Canada. But while the Spark focuses on function, the two two-doors include a healthy helping of style. And the cost of this style? Compared to a Spark LT, a FIAT 500 Pop with alloy wheels lists for $2,200 more. Adjust for feature differences, and it’s about $3,400 more. And the MINI? If you have to ask…
Need four doors in your hatchback? Then the Kia Rio is you next least expensive option. It runs $1,355 more before adjusting for feature differences and about $2,400 more afterwards.
So, while the Spark’s price isn’t as small as its size, it is the lowest by a significant amount.