It’s hard to find a smaller, cheaper car in the US than the 2022 Chevrolet Spark.
As an urban runabout, the Spark performs quite well, but on the highway, the Korean-made Chevy’s feeble engine is found wanting.
One bright spot: The Spark’s infotainment system is surprisingly decent and interacts happily with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
We recommend going as high up the trim ladder as your wallet allows and avoid the bargain basement entry-level model.
2022 Chevrolet Spark LS (starting at $13,600)
The tiny Spark LS sub-compact hatchback seats four, runs on 15-inch steel wheels, and is powered by a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, developing just 98 horsepower.
If you can drive a stick shift, we recommend the standard 5-speed manual transmission over the optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) costing an extra $1,100. The manual is more fun to drive than the energy-sapping CVT.
Standard equipment on the LS includes a 7-inch color touchscreen (compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), 4-speaker audio system, driver info center, rear-view camera, 60/40 split rear folding bench seat, tire pressure monitor, and manual windows and door mirrors.
The Spark is almost devoid of driver aids and safety equipment, beyond air bags and stability control. Only the top 2LT trim with CVT ($18,100) offers an optional driver confidence package trim, with forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Adding in the $995 destination fee, the Spark LS sticker comes to $14,595. Given 3% financing over 60 months and no down payment, that would produce a monthly payment of $250. Find a 2022 Chevrolet Spark LS for sale
2022 Chevrolet Spark LS includes:
- Manual 5-speed – Shift-yourself transmission is better choice than CVT.
- Color touchscreen – Decent infotainment system for this class of car.
- Apple/Android compatibility – Good to find, given that it’s missing in some more expensive vehicles.
2022 Chevrolet Spark 1LT/2LT ($15,500)
Moving up to the Spark 1LT brings 15-inch aluminum wheels, heated door mirrors, LED daytime running lights, 6-speaker audio system, and cruise control.
On top of these features, the Spark 2LT ($17,000) includes rear park assist, an enhanced driver display, leather wrapped steering wheel, power door locks, and power windows. One option on the 1LT/2LT is a power sunroof.
Adding in the $995 destination fee, the Spark 1LT sticker comes to $16,495. Given 3% financing over 60 months and no down payment, that would produce a monthly payment of $283. Find a 2022 Chevrolet Spark LT for sale
2022 Chevrolet Spark 1LT/2LT includes:
- 6-speaker audio – Modest upgrade to improve the sound system.
- Power locks and windows – Hard to imagine not having these features.
- Optional sunroof – Treat yourself!
2022 Chevrolet Spark Activ ($16,600)
The Spark Activ dresses up its exterior with a unique grille, black bumpers and moldings, and roof rack. Beyond that, the Activ shares most of the features of the 1LT/2LT trims, along with fog lamps and auto-on headlights.
Adding in the $995 destination fee, the Spark Activ sticker comes to $17,595. Given 3% financing over 60 months and no down payment, that would produce a monthly payment of $302. Find a 2022 Chevrolet Spark Activ for sale
2022 Chevrolet Spark Activ includes:
- Black exterior design cues – Activ presents stylish look.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel – Upscale touch for basic cabin.
- Sunroof – Power sunroof is a nice option to let the light in.
