More and more people are looking for honest value-for-money propositions, and Chevrolet South Africa is perfectly set to cater to their needs with its 2013 Spark range. The new Spark sees local enhancements for interior and exterior trim and an extension of the model range to include a new entry-level version, top-level LT specification and the addition of a panel van, the Spark Pronto.
The changes are subtle, but the Spark does appear refreshed. The front facia has been revised with a larger radiator grille, revised headlamp treatment and side mirrors that incorporate turn signals. A chrome strip decorates the doors, while 14- or 15-inch alloy wheels are standard depending on the model. The rear sports new taillamps and another chrome strip on the tailgate handle. The rear bumper now has a triangular chromed tailpipe. A roof spoiler with a high-mounted brakelamp is standard on the LS and LT. The latter is also offered with an optional decal kit, which is available in white, silver and black. It adds to the roof, bonnet and rear spoiler.
Step inside and you are met with very few changes besides new cloth and minor alterations to the centre console. Four interior trim colours are available and these are matched to the exterior colour.
There has been no change to the 60 kW/108 N.m 1,2-litre 16-valve engine. It is a racy unit and is perfect for a city car. However, on our highway route along the South Coast during the local launch, the 1,2-litre was found wanting. I also found engine noise to be quite intrusive, especially with the lack of a sixth gear ratio. The steering is direct thanks to the Spark’s hydraulic system, but on what turned out to be a very windy day along the coast, the Spark felt a little uneasy. That said, the handling and ride quality are fairly impressive. Read a full driving impression on the Spark 1,2 LS.
The Spark has never failed to impress with its extensive list of standard features. The new Campus model comes standard with colour-coded bumpers and door handles, 14-inch alloys, power steering, air-conditioning, height-adjustable driver’s seat and cupholders in the centre console. Standard safety features include two airbags, ABS with EBD, immobiliser and central locking. It doesn’t come with a radio and rear windscreen wiper. The base model adds radio/CD/MP3/aux-in/USB audio, roof rails, rear wiper and an alarm. The LT model builds on the LS trim (which is in addition to that of the base model) of front foglamps and electric side mirrors by adding side airbags, “sportier” seats, redesigned colour-coded bumpers, 15-inch alloys, electric windows, a six-speaker sound system and rear park assist.
The Pronto I mentioned earlier is Chevrolet’s answer for the panel-van market. It has a 275 kg payload with 876 dm3 of available space. It comes standard with roof rails to facilitate the fitting of a rack. As a commercial vehicle, the Pronto offers the advantage of a full VAT rebate on the purchase price for VAT registered business users. So, it comes to just R89 035 excluding VAT and R101 500 including it. I predict this newcomer will do really well, especially for small-business owners.
As with other models in the GMSA range, the Spark is covered by a five-year/120 000 km warranty with five-year unlimited km anti-corrosion cover. Roadside assistance is available throughout the warranty period. Service intervals for the Spark are 12 months or 15 000 km. A service plan is available as an option at the time of purchase.
Pricing
Chevrolet Spark 1,2 Campus: R106 100
Chevrolet Spark 1,2: R113 600
Chevrolet Spark 1,2 LS: R123 000
Chevrolet Spark 1,2 LT: R136 500
Chevrolet Spark Pronto: R101 500 incl. VAT (R89 035 excl. VAT)
Specifications*
Engine: 1,2-litre, 16-valve DOHC
Power: 60 kW at 6 400 r/min
Torque: 108 N.m at 4 800 r/min
0-100 km/h: 13,3 seconds
Fuel consumption: 5,4 litres/100 km
Fuel tank capacity: 35 litres
CO2: 129 g/km
Top speed: 164 km/h
Service plan: optional 3 years/60 000 km
Warranty: 5 years/120 000 km
Service intervals: 15 000 km
*Manufacturer claims