The age of the sensible but fun little city car is upon us, and not a moment too soon.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo -
With the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, Chevy is taking direct aim at competitors such as the Fiat 500, the smart fortwo, and the Scion iQ with a five-door hatch capable of seating four passangers and featuring a fuel-efficient 1.2L four-cylinder engine. Why it's not being offered as a plug-in electric, with a name like Spark, is anyone's guess.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
Be that as it may, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is seen as the itsy-bitsy tiniest little wee Chevrolet ever produced, a highly efficient economical alternative to gas-guzzling SUVs that's a hell of a lot cheaper to fuel and easier to find parking for downtown.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
Here are some highlights from the official release:
“Spark is for buyers who want much more than a ‘cute’ small car – they want a car that can be personalized, is dynamic and fashionable, and delivers a lot of value for the money,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global Chevrolet marketing and strategy.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
“Spark’s vibrant exterior and interior colors make a fashion statement, but it is also affordable, safe, maneuverable and very fuel-efficient.”
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
"While the Spark looks like a three-door hatch, designers cleverly disguised the rear doors by integrating the handles into the C-pillar area. The technique gives Spark its sporty appearance without sacrificing four-door comfort and utility. An integrated spoiler over the rear hatch door enhances Spark’s dynamic appearance while also improving the car’s aerodynamics, for fuel efficiency."
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
"In the United States and Canada, the Spark will be powered by a 1.2L dual-overhead cam four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing that delivers an estimated 85 horsepower (63 kW). It is mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission for competitive city and highway fuel economy. A four-speed automatic transmission will also be available."
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
In addition to all that good stuff, the Spark aims to be reasonably safe, boasting a stiff body-frame, 10 airbags including both driver and passenger front knee air bags, and OnStar.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
Other basics include air conditioning, power windows, headlights, a steering wheel, transparent windows, brakes, and various other barebones niceties intended to keep the price within reach of young urban first-time buyers.
2013 Chevrolet Spark photo
Plus, the rear doors are neatly disguised for a sportier feel.
Comments