The automotive landscape is a fascinating yet seemingly complex place. Among the hundreds of options that are available to prospective buyers, the segment that caters to a majority of the folks is that of budget cars. In a world where the glitz and glamour of automobiles is often directed and magnetized by really expensive and posh vehicles, it is cars that occupy the lower rung of that ladder that actually make sense to many buyers.
While the term ‘affordable’ is subjective and depends on often on the individual, the cheapest cars can be found within the A-segment. This segment refers to cars that are (usually) small hatchbacks and offer a good value, catering to those whose primary commute is within the confines of a city. With almost every major carmaker offering at least one budget model in their line-up, American auto major Chevrolet has the Spark to fend this post.
The Chevrolet Spark is the smallest and cheapest model in the brand’s extensive line-up, and is available in several countries - the list includes the United Arab Emirates as well. Presently in its third generation, the outgoing Spark was first unveiled back in 2009. Known on some markets as the Chevrolet Beat, the Spark is built on top of the brand’s Global Small Vehicles architecture. This very platform also forms the basis for the Spark’s sedan sibling, the Aveo, with its underpinnings.
In the UAE, the Chevrolet Spark is priced at AED 36,910 and AED 45,120 for the entry-level LS variant and the fully-loaded LT trim, respectively. No matter which variant you go for, the Spark is only offered with one engine choice in the region - a 1.4-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol unit. The motor is equipped with dual overhead cams and utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, It produces 98 hp at 6,200 rpm and peak torque of 127 Nm arrives at 4,400 rpm.
Obviously, the Chevrolet Spark isn’t exactly designed to be driven hard or in any way that could pique the interest of your inner racing driver. The front-wheel drive platform combined with a rather slow continuously variable transmission (CVT) means that this hatchback won’t be setting any speed records anytime soon. For example, the run from standstill to 100 km/h takes a lethargic 12 seconds to complete. Meanwhile, the Spark’s top speed of 170 km/h could very well be achieved, though one would really need to find a long stretch of open road with next to no traffic.
Now it is pretty evident that the Chevrolet Spark doesn’t have any particularly exciting mechanical components as it doesn’t really need them. And of course, lest you forget, this car has been built to be as affordable as Chevy could make it. However, while it is undeniably slow, the Spark is capable of achieving a combined fuel economy of 5.1 L/100 km - a factor that would certainly impress would-be buyers at the showroom.
Inside, the Spark doesn’t necessarily look entirely devoid of character. However, nothing in here is going to raise your eyebrows out of curiosity or disgust either. There are some shiny elements around the center console and the aircon vents, but that’s about it. The seats are fairly standard and do their job for the most part. Now while the Spark is technically a five-seater, its cabin is best suited for carrying four. The Spark’s boot, with a minimum capacity of over 310 liters, is easily sufficient for carrying a couple of large bags or several grocery bags.
Given the price, the Chevrolet Spark is a fairly decent hatchback. And with safety features such as dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control offered as standard, you wouldn’t have to worry too much about your overall well-being either.
