2017 Chevrolet Spark
Pros
- Impressive number of features at an affordable price
- Can be had with optional high-tech safety features that are typically unavailable in this class
- High fuel economy
- easy to park in tight spaces
Cons
- Acceleration is very slow, both for the class and in general
- Not much rear legroom and cargo capacity
2017 Chevrolet Spark pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
It's easy to understand the appeal of a subcompact car, especially if you are one of the tens of millions of Americans living in or near a crowded city center. These cars are easy to park, inexpensive to own and will easily get you from point A to point B. A great example of the breed is the 2017 Chevrolet Spark.
Coming off a full redesign last year, the 2017 Spark primarily stands out for its technology-forward cabin at an affordable price. Each Spark comes standard with a rearview camera, a 4G LTE hotspot (via General Motors' OnStar service) and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. On the Spark 2LT, you can also order an optional package to get lane departure warning and forward collision alert, two safety features not commonly found in this class of car.
The subcompact car class is well stocked by a number of appealing competitors, though. The Spark comes up a bit short in rear legroom and cargo capacity, so if space is a priority, you'd probably enjoy the roomy and versatile Honda Fit more. We're also fond of the sporty Ford Fiesta and well-rounded Hyundai Accent. Overall, though, we find the Chevrolet Spark to be a compelling model to look at, especially if you're searching for something that won't strain your bank account.
Standard safety features on the 2017 Chevrolet Spark include four-wheel antilock brakes (front discs, rear drums), a rearview camera, hill-hold assist, stability and traction control, front and
rear side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat knee airbags. The OnStar service also provides automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance and stolen-vehicle assistance. Forward collision alert and lane departure warning are available on the 2LT model equipped with the automatic transmission.
In safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, last year's Spark earned the top rating of Good in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset impact collision and side-impact tests.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Spark LT stopped from 60 mph in 121 feet, which is average for the class.
Trim levels & features
The 2017 Chevrolet Spark is a four-passenger, four-door subcompact hatchback offered in four trims: LS, 1LT, 2LT and Activ.
In addition to the safety features listed in the Safety section below, standard features on the LS trim include 15-inch steel wheels, automatic headlamps, a rear spoiler, a rearview camera, air conditioning, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt steering wheel, a trip computer, outside temperature display, carpeted floor mats, Chevy's OnStar telematics system with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and the MyLink infotainment system.
MyLink includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a USB port, smartphone app integration, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a four-speaker audio system with an auxiliary jack.
Opting for the 1LT trim adds 15-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated, power-adjustable mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, power windows and door locks, steering-wheel-mounted audio and phone controls, a theft-deterrent system, satellite radio and a six-speaker audio system.
Moving up to the 2LT adds premium vinyl upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats, rear parking sensors and chrome exterior trim.
The new Spark Activ is similar to the 2LT but has roof rails, special 15-inch wheels and bodywork, and a raised suspension that provides 0.4 inch of additional ground clearance.
A sunroof is available on all LT trims, and the Driver Confidence package (forward collision warning and lane departure warning) can be ordered on the 2LT with the continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The 2017 Spark equipped with the manual transmission returns an EPA-rate 33 mpg in combined driving (29 city/38 highway). The CVT model also yields 33 mpg combined (30 city/38 highway). For the Activ trim level, the manual-equipped returns 32 mpg combined and the automatic-equipped is good for 33 mpg combined.
In Edmunds testing, a CVT-equipped Spark accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 11.3 seconds, making it one of the slower cars in its class.
Driving
Because of its modest power output, the Spark's small four-cylinder engine is best suited for around-town use. A CVT-equipped Spark takes a bit more than 11 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, so highway on-ramp runs require some advance planning. Although we haven't yet tested a Spark equipped with the five-speed manual transmission, we expect it to be slightly slower than the CVT-equipped model.
The Spark's tallish body fosters the impression of a European cargo van left too long in the clothes dryer. Thankfully, the Spark doesn't drive like a van. Although far from a sport sedan, this petite Chevy remains surprisingly agile around turns and delivers a well-mannered ride overall. There's noticeable road and wind noise, but it's no more intrusive than in other cars at this price point. It's also impressively easy to park, even in tight spaces.
Interior
Up front, the 2017 Chevrolet Spark surrounds you with a simple, clean and modern interior, but it's difficult to ignore the vast expanse of painted plastic bits, admittedly a common sight on cars in this price range. The color-accented dash and door panels, well-textured trim pieces and swoopy sculpting help you overlook some of the hard plastic surfaces. Sporty gauges featuring both a traditional speedometer and a digital multifunction display add visual appeal.
The MyLink touchscreen infotainment system adds to the Spark's modern vibe. It has intuitive menus, sharp graphics and a 7-inch touchscreen that supports smartphone-imitating gestures like pinching and swiping. Apple CarPlay lets you run your iPhone from the touchscreen in a familiar manner, while Android Auto does the same for smartphones using the Google-based operating system.
Considering its small size, the Spark provides spacious seating for most adults to get comfortable, even on longer drives. Still, the upright position of the front seats gives the impression that you're sitting on the chairs rather than in them, and there's no real lateral support. While the Spark's rear seats are larger than many in the subcompact segment, they're still best suited to smaller passengers. Average-size adults will likely complain about the low seat cushions and headrests.
Cargo capacity checks in at 11.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 27.2 cubic feet with the rear seats lowered. Both figures are below average for the class. For comparison, the Honda Fit boasts 52.7 cubic feet of maximum space.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2017 Chevrolet Spark.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2017 Chevrolet Spark video
BRYN MACKINNON: I'm Bryn MacKinnon from Edmunds, and this is an Edmund's expert rundown of the 2017 Chevrolet Spark. Whether you're looking for your first car, or you're just looking for something small and agile to motor around town in, the 2017 Chevrolet Spark is worth a look. The Spark was just redesigned last year so there aren't any changes for 2017. Right up front, it's worth noting that the Spark is one of the slowest cars in its class. If you're looking for something peppy, this probably isn't the ride for you. Despite that lack of power, this is a pretty good subcompact car with some nice available tech and impressive fuel economy. The Spark is rated by the EPA at an impressive 41 miles per gallon on the highway. And if you're driving the Spark in a crowded city, the small exterior dimensions will definitely help you squeeze into tight parking spots. That size means it's tight on the inside though, with limited hip and shoulder room, both up front and in the back seat. Legroom and headroom in the back suffer too. So four adults will have a hard time squeezing in. The trunk isn't very large either, even by class standards. It should be enough for at least one or two suitcases, but for big road trips you might need to fall down one of the rear seats. Bottom line with the 2017 Spark is that you're looking at a low-cost hatchback with a few nice available tech amenities, but it's not that impressive out on the road. Rivals like the Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, and Ford Fiesta are worth checking out before you make your final choice. For more Edmunds' expert rundowns, click the link to subscribe.
2017 Chevrolet Spark Expert Rundown Review
Looking for a high-tech, low-cost hatchback that's inexpensive, easy to maneuver and offers plenty of amenities and safety equipment? The 2017 Chevrolet Spark might be worth checking out. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
Features & Specs
Safety
2017 Chevrolet Spark for Sale
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See your car's valueThe 2017 Chevrolet Spark is what used to be called an "urban runabout." It's small enough to squeeze through almost any hole in traffic, park practically anywhere, and it's available in bright colors so you can quickly find it in a crowded parking lot.
After a serious updating for 2016, the Spark comes into 2017 with only a light dusting of updates. Still, what returns includes plenty of technology including a rearview camera, a 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 7-inch touchscreen in the dash that can be fed information from your smartphone: The Spark offers both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
If you opt for the top-of-the-line Spark 2LT, the available options expand to include lane departure warning and forward collision alert systems — technology that's uncommon in cars of this price range.
There isn’t a lot of rear legroom or cargo capacity in the Spark, so families with kids may want to look at other subcompacts before settling on one. But it's tough to beat the Spark's keen pricing; particularly when equipment level is taken into account.
While many of the its competitors have been sportier in their abilities and attitude, Chevrolet is introducing a new "Spark Activ" (no "e") to add some zest to the mix. The Activ will get its own grille texture, a higher ride height, special 15-inch wheels, and several other trim pieces to give the tiny hatchback an SUV-like aura.
All Sparks are powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 98 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard while a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the offered automatic. Both are front-wheel drive. While this small car moves well, it isn't quick.
The five-speed Spark is EPA-rated at 29 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway and 33 mpg combined. Go for the CVT and the city rating rises to 30 mpg while the 38 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined stay the same. If you choose the new Activ model those numbers drop about 1 mpg.
It pays to be a smart shopper. So use Edmunds to research your choices and then get a great deal on a new subcompact. We're here to make your purchasing experience more satisfying.
2017 Chevrolet Spark Overview
The 2017 Chevrolet Spark is offered in the following submodels: Spark Hatchback. Available styles include LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT), 1LT 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT), 2LT 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT), LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl 5M), ACTIV 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT), 1LT 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl 5M), 2LT 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl 5M), and ACTIV 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl 5M).
What do people think of the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Spark 3.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Spark.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Spark featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2017 Chevrolet Spark?
2017 Chevrolet Spark LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT)
The 2017 Chevrolet Spark LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $14,975. The average price paid for a new 2017 Chevrolet Spark LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,500 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,500 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$13,475.
The average savings for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT) is10% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Chevrolet Spark LS 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2017 Chevrolet Sparks are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Chevrolet Spark for sale near. There are currently 3 new 2017 Sparks listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $14,975 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $2,702 on a used or CPO 2017 Spark available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2017 Chevrolet Sparks you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Chevrolet Spark for sale - 12 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $19,581.
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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2017 Chevrolet Spark?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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Related vehicle information
2017 Chevrolet Spark Information
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- 2017 Chevrolet Spark Ownership Costs