- Reason #1: Snug four-seat interior
- Reason #2: Few active safety features
- Reason #3: Leisurely acceleration
- Is the 2022 Chevrolet Spark a bad car?
The 2022 Chevrolet Spark is one of the cheapest cars on sale. That is, while it’s still available. Chevrolet discontinued the subcompact for 2023, so Spark lovers should act fast to get one of the remaining models. While the Spark looks like a stellar pick for budget-minded drivers, there are a few reasons why others cars offer more.
U.S. News waded into the conversation about how the Spark stacks up as a tiny commuter. According to them, there are three things about the 2022 Chevrolet Spark they don’t like.
Reason #1: Snug four-seat interior
Chevrolet Spark on the road | Chevrolet
Most subcompacts can seat five adults, even if they have to become closer with one another. On the other hand, the 2022 Chevrolet Spark only has four seats. Regrettably, the front bucket seats lack comfort and support. Reviewers say, “limited seat and steering wheel adjustments can make it hard to find a comfortable driving position.” Regardless, the Spark offers plenty of headroom for the driver and front passenger, even if they’re a bit lofty.
The rear seats are another story, however. They’re just as firm as the front, but passengers are gifted even less legroom. Smaller children can sit in the rear seats without an issue. Yet, adults will find it a struggle.
Reason #2: Few active safety features
In 2016, Chevrolet added more active safety features to the Spark. Blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning were available on the more expensive of the four trim levels. In 2019, automatic emergency braking became available. The issue is that these aren’t featured on the base Spark LS.
The only standard driver assistance feature is a rearview camera. But it’s an excellent addition to a base model that doesn’t even have power windows or power door locks.
Reason #3: Leisurely acceleration
Chevrolet Spark in silver | Chevrolet
Since Chevrolet Spark is an economy, potential owners shouldn’t expect tire-shredding performance. Reviewers assert the 98-horsepower 1.4-liter four-cylinder “feels lively and effervescent around town.” Yet, issues begin to arise once the Spark gets to the highway.
U.S. News says it takes the Spark an agonizing 11 seconds to hit 60 mph. Unfortunately, there’s more noise created by the engine than speed.
Is the 2022 Chevrolet Spark a bad car?
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Just because the Chevrolet Spark has a cramped and spartan interior with an anemic powerplant, it doesn’t mean it’s undesirable. For instance, it’s one of the last cars with a manual transmission—a five-speed in the Spark. A less engaging continuously variable transmission is a $1,100 option, but it helps with the gas mileage.
For those looking for a bargain, the $14,000 Spark LS is great when pitted against riding a bike or a bus. Potential buyers even have access to tech features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay through an intuitive seven-inch infotainment system. It also includes a four-speaker stereo, Bluetooth capability, two USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The price rises to $15,500 for the 1LT and $16,600 for the Activ trims. If one desires heated seats, though, the range-topping 2LT is $17,000.
Keyword: 3 Things U.S. News Doesn’t Like About the 2022 Chevrolet Spark