Image via Complex Original
Length: 12’5”
Curb Weight: 2269 LB
Seating Capacity: 4
Passenger Volume: 86.3 CU FT.
Horsepower: 84
Base Price: $12,245
chevrolet.com
Big cars are in America’s DNA. The country has millions of miles of open highways and a brash automotive legacy that celebrates size and power. Times, however, are changing. City living is enjoying a renaissance. Now, Americans are looking across the pond for engineering innovations and ways to improve urban life.
Enter the minicar. Yes, they’ve been Stateside before. The smart car was introduced to North America in 2008, and before that Britain’s famous little export, the Mini, and Italy’s Fiat 500 both staged American invasions. All three are celebrated novelties favored by eccentric enthusiasts more than they are by everyday drivers.
Now there’s a new generation of minicars in America‚ headed by the Chevy Spark. Surprisingly roomy, this whip redefines the image of small cars. Easy to park, and even easier to pack, they turn urban transport from nightmare into joy ride, and, most important, turn heads in your direction.
It Makes People Smile
True story: We were on 95 rolling through the Bronx on the way to Stamford, CT, when we noticed the motorists beside us crying with laughter. Were they laughing at us? Hell no! They were laughing with us. The Spark is fun. It looks sort of ridiculous—it is 10 feet long, what do you expect?—and that is one of the reasons to love it. Not only are you having a good time, but just being on the road brightens other's days.
It's Got Passenger Space
Thanks to 6'3" Firstwefeast.com E-i-C Chris Schonberger, we can confirm that larger lads fit comfortably in the back seat of a Spark. We drove all over Southern Connecticut in the quest for the best hot dog on 95 with four passengers. Everyone was comfortable. Nobody complained about personal space. Considering the overall size of the Spark, the interior space is astounding.
It Connects to Our Tech
The car features available Chevrolet MyLink, turning the car's nifty 7-inch color touch-screen into a portal for your smart phone device. This is great for when a) you want to make a phone call and b) you're parked with a girl and need a movie to help ease you into a dream make out session. Add the OnStar® RemoteLink™ mobile app and you can also unlock your car using your phone—which will probably also help get you toward that dream make out session.
It Makes City Parking Easy
On Saturday, October 27, 2012, we drove around Manhattan's Upper West Side in search of an illusive parking spot. Unfortunately, we drove for an anger-inducing period of time. Then, by act of god, a space revealed itself. A space so small that it tested our parallel skills. Once we prevailed, we stood proudly beside our small pink car knowing that this little wonder just made us look real savvy.
In a less aggravating different circumstance, the Spark made urban driving a joy, effortlessly sliding into overgrown parking lot spots—locations which inspire hoards of gaping passersby. Basic takeaway: Parking the Spark is another way the car makes people (and you) smile.
It's Got Junk in the Trunk
We know what you're thinking: Four seats, that size, no way can the Spark have cargo room. Wrong. One of the most pleasant surprises in this minicar is the trunk space. Yes, the trunk capacity (there is 31.2 cubic feet in total cargo volume) is mostly vertical, which requires a deft hand to maximize, but it's there and will comfortably support a hearty grocery run.
It's Great for Customs
At SEMA, Chevy launched a string of performance customs for both the Sonic and the Spark. We've also seen a crazy custom involving a Corvette engine and a tremendous Military Spark built by the geniuses from Enemy to Fashion. “It screams post-apocalyptic Cannonball Run,” said Weapon Collective Creative Director Caleb Clark. “It’s not what you would expect to see from a Chevy Spark, but the car really wears it well.” The point can be extended: The Chevy Spark wears unique ideas well.
Its Little Engine Packs Some Power
Of course, the Spark isn't some race-ready speedster (it boasts just 84 horses). But, the power pushed out of the small engine is ample for hitting city hills and even short highway bursts. We rolled on the interstate, and we felt comfortable. So, given most of the Spark's intended driving is urban, the prospect of a quick road trip isn't out of reach. Plus, road trips put more eyes on the car, thus you make more smiles…i.e. make the world a better place.
