The 2013 Chevrolet Spark: What the critics say

The New York Times

No, it’s not a “demented toaster.” The first micro-compact that Chevrolet has ever sold in the U.S. “feels solid and well built” compared with entry-level GM cars of the past, and its well-equipped cabin never approaches “chintzy.” Styled to suit the tastes of millennials, the Spark offers an optional 7-inch touch screen that lets buyers use the apps on their smartphones to tackle the car’s navigation and entertainment needs. Yes, a Mini is far more fun, but this “city-centric econobox” could find a niche.

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With its 64-hp engine, the Spark obviously “won’t be beating any lap-time records.” But we were impressed by the road-handling ability of this urban runabout, which gets 34 mpg in combined city/highway driving and has been a strong seller worldwide for three years. Unfortunately, noise becomes a problem when the surprisingly roomy Spark touches highway speeds, “so be prepared to turn up the radio a bit.”

The Washington Post

“Let’s be real.” The Spark shouldn’t be driven fast or on long road trips. It’s designed to “maneuver through crowded city streets—and stay away from gasoline pumps.” In an America that’s getting comfortable with downsizing, that might be enough. These days, “small and sensible wins the race.”