Chevrolet Spark range expanded

General Motors SA has expanded and tweaked the Chevrolet Spark range for 2013.

The entry-level model was initially offered in just the L and LS specification levels. General Motors SA (GMSA) went back to the drawing board to revise and rework their strategy for the competitive small car market. GMSA decided to expand the range to include the Chevrolet Spark Campus - an entry level model to cater for the cost conscious market. They also added the top of the range LT model as well as the delivery van called the Pronto.

Not much has changed in terms of the exterior and interior design. To freshen up the exterior, the Spark has a bigger grille, new headlights and side mirrors that incorporate the turn signals (only available in the LT model) to give it a bit more presence than before. Check out the slideshow for the design changes.

The Spark is only available in a 1.2 litre petrol engine (carried over from the previous model); with multi-port electronic fuel injection that produces maximum power of 60 KW at 6400 revs per minute. The engine feels a bit underpowered and one has to resort to revving hard when planning to overtake in highways. The entry level accelerates from standstill to the 100km mark in 13.3 seconds and has a top speed of 164km per hour. The Spark is aimed at someone that’s happy with cruising at low speeds and is not in a rush to get to their destination. GMSA claims fuel consumption of 5.4 litres per 100km travel.

The ride quality of the city slicker is stable, balanced and above average. Features that are available include:

Driver and front passenger airbags, ABS brakes, key activated central locking and aircon for the base Spark Campus model.

For the LS model - Chrome grille surround, front fog lamps, colour coded rear roof spoiler, 14 inch alloy rims fitted with 165/65 R14 tyres (15 inch alloy are available as an option), height adjustable steering column, power side mirrors (heated), power windows at the front, immobiliser, MP3 compatibility/ Auxiliary input and USB Port and alarm system.

And for top of the range Spark LT - seat side airbags, sports colour coded bumpers, 15 inch alloy rims fitted with 165/60 R15 tyres, power windows front and rear, six speaker sound system, rear park assist, refreshed interior trim with optional sports decal package.

Considering the size of the Spark, safety features are an important factor. It’s available with side impact protection bars, collapsible steering column and the ISOFIX attachment (for installing child seats).

The Spark will compete against the Hyundai i10, the Kia Picanto, the Toyota Aygo and the Honda Brio. At starting price of R106 100, the spark is a worthy contender.

1.2 Campus R106 100
1.2 R113 600
1.2 LS R123 00
1.2 LT R136 500
1.2 Pronto van – R101 500
Warranty – five years / 120 000 km

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