In a world where SUVs and large crossovers dominate the roads, the 2022 Chevrolet Spark stands out by staying true to what it does best—being small, simple, and incredibly efficient. As one of the most affordable new cars on the market, the Spark appeals to a wide range of drivers looking for a no-nonsense vehicle that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Exterior and Interior Design
The 2022 Chevrolet Spark may be small in size, but it doesn't shy away from showing off a bold and youthful personality. With its compact dimensions and sporty design elements, the Spark is built to stand out in a crowd—especially in urban environments where tight parking and maneuverability matter most.
Exterior Design
The Spark features a sharp front fascia with a distinctive grille and stylish headlamps, giving it a modern, energetic look. Available in a variety of vibrant colors like Mystic Blue, Crimson, and Caribbean Blue, the Spark allows drivers to express their personal style. Higher trims, such as the ACTIV model, add rugged details like roof rails and a slightly raised suspension for a more adventurous look.
Interior Design
While compact, the cabin is smartly designed with a clean layout, intuitive controls, and surprisingly good headroom for front passengers. Though the materials are basic, they feel solid and built to last, especially in the higher trims where you’ll find leatherette-trimmed seats and available heated front seats. Chevrolet has also included practical storage spaces throughout the cabin—ideal for stashing phones, drinks, and other everyday items.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2022 Chevrolet Spark is equipped with a 1.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might seem modest, they’re perfectly suited for the Spark’s purpose as an urban commuter. This engine isn’t designed for high-speed thrills, but rather for nimble city driving, smooth handling, and reliable day-to-day performance.
Transmission Options
The manual option is great for those who enjoy more control behind the wheel or are looking for a slightly more engaging drive. The CVT, on the other hand, offers a smoother and more convenient experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Driving Experience
The steering is light and responsive, giving drivers confidence during urban maneuvers. While it’s not built for highway acceleration or spirited cornering, it handles everyday driving with ease and feels composed at lower speeds.
Read Also : 2019 Chevrolet Impala – A Blend of Classic Style and Modern Comfort
Fuel Efficiency
Designed with economy in mind, the Spark helps drivers save money at the pump without sacrificing everyday usability.
EPA Ratings
The 2022 Spark offers an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon in the city and 38 mpg on the highway when equipped with the CVT (continuously variable transmission). For those who prefer the 5-speed manual transmission, the ratings are slightly lower—approximately 29 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.
Real-World Efficiency
In real-world driving, many Spark owners report achieving fuel economy figures close to or even exceeding the official EPA ratings, especially during consistent city driving or when using eco-conscious habits. Its lightweight design and efficient powertrain make it easy to keep gas consumption low, even during heavy traffic or short trips.
Small Tank, Big Savings
More importantly, the cost to fill up is significantly less compared to larger sedans or SUVs, making it a smart choice for drivers who want to stretch every dollar. It offers a practical and eco-friendly solution for daily commuting—perfect for drivers who want to keep their running costs low without switching to a hybrid or EV.
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment System
Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 system powers the unit, giving users access to a range of functions including music, navigation via smartphone, and hands-free communication.
Smartphone Integration
Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility means drivers can seamlessly connect their smartphones to access maps, playlists, podcasts, and apps directly from the touchscreen.
Available Upgrades
These include keyless entry and ignition, a 6-speaker premium audio system for better sound quality, and additional USB ports.
User Experience
Chevrolet has clearly prioritized essential connectivity features without overcomplicating things, which makes the Spark ideal for drivers who want just the right amount of tech without paying a premium.
Safety Features
Standard Safety Features
Every 2022 Spark comes with a set of foundational safety components that cover the basics effectively. These include:
- Rear Vision Camera: Makes reversing and parking in tight spaces easier and safer.
- 10 Airbags: Strategically placed to protect passengers in the event of a collision, including front, side, knee, and curtain airbags.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Alerts the driver when tire pressure is low, helping to maintain proper traction and fuel efficiency.
Available Driver-Assistance Features
These include:
- Lane Departure Warning: Notifies the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane unintentionally.
- Rear Park Assist: Uses sensors to detect objects behind the vehicle while reversing, providing both audio and visual alerts.
While the Spark does not include more advanced systems like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking, it still delivers reliable safety for its class and price point. It’s important to note that many subcompacts in this segment also limit safety tech to higher trims or omit them entirely to keep costs low.
Crash Test Ratings
The Spark has performed reasonably well in crash tests conducted by independent safety organizations.
Pros and Cons
Here's a closer look at what makes the Spark shine—and where it may fall short compared to the competition.
Pros
Extremely Affordable
One of the most attractive features of the Spark is its price tag. With one of the lowest starting MSRPs in the U.S. market, it’s a fantastic option for budget-conscious buyers, students, and anyone looking for an economical second car.
Compact and Easy to Park
Thanks to its tiny footprint, the Spark is incredibly easy to maneuver through traffic and park in tight urban spots.
Surprisingly Good Tech
Despite its entry-level status, the Spark includes features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot—all of which are rare to find in this price range.
Customizable and Stylish
Chevrolet offers the Spark in several eye-catching colors and trims, including the sporty ACTIV model, giving it a fun, personalized feel that makes it more appealing than other bland economy cars.
Cons
Limited Power
The 98-horsepower engine is fine for city use but struggles on the highway, especially when merging, passing, or carrying passengers and cargo. If you regularly drive on freeways or long trips, the lack of power may be noticeable..
Small Cargo Space
The cargo area is limited, especially with all seats in use. You can expand space by folding down the rear seats, but don’t expect SUV-level storage.
Basic Interior Materials
To keep costs low, Chevrolet used hard plastics and minimal soft-touch surfaces inside. While durable, the materials can feel a bit plain and dated compared to competitors with more upscale cabins.
