The Chevy Spark EV has carved out a unique niche in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering a compact and affordable option for drivers seeking to switch to electric. After five months of driving and daily living with a Spark EV, it’s time for an in-depth review that goes beyond the surface. This isn’t just a spec sheet comparison; it’s a look into the real-world experience of owning and driving this electric city car. We’ll delve into what makes the Spark EV a compelling choice and where it might fall short, providing a balanced perspective for anyone considering this EV.
The Allure of the Spark EV: Highlighting the Positives
Let’s start with the aspects that make the Chevy Spark EV genuinely enjoyable and practical.
Instant Acceleration and Engaging Performance
One of the most immediately noticeable and consistently praised features of the Spark EV is its acceleration. The electric motor delivers instant torque, translating to surprisingly brisk off-the-line performance. This isn’t just about fun; it enhances everyday driving. Merging into traffic becomes less stressful, and quick maneuvers feel safer. The responsiveness of the electric powertrain makes navigating city streets and highways a more confident and enjoyable experience. Beyond just speed, the quiet operation of the electric motor adds to the driving pleasure, especially in urban environments where noise pollution is a concern.
Switching to “Sport” mode further sharpens the throttle response, adding an extra layer of engagement when desired. While it might not fundamentally alter peak power, it provides a more eager feel for spirited driving. For those seeking even more performance, tire upgrades can significantly enhance grip and handling. Swapping the original low-rolling resistance tires for high-performance summer tires can minimize torque steer and maximize the car’s acceleration potential, especially for drivers who prioritize performance and aren’t as concerned about maximizing range in every driving scenario.
City-Sized Footprint, Big City Advantages
The Spark EV’s compact dimensions are a game-changer, particularly for urban dwellers. Its small size translates directly into easier parking – fitting into tight spots becomes routine, and maneuvering in crowded parking lots is significantly less stressful. The nimble handling extends beyond parking; navigating narrow city streets and tight turns is effortless. The car’s small turning radius is particularly useful in urban environments, making U-turns and navigating complex intersections much simpler. This agility is a significant advantage in congested city centers.
Surprisingly Spacious Interior for its Class
Despite its diminutive exterior, the Spark EV’s interior is surprisingly practical. The rear seats fold flat, creating a useful cargo area. This allows for carrying larger items that you might not expect to fit in a car of this size. The ability to accommodate longer items, like shelving units, by positioning them between the front seats further enhances its practicality. This interior flexibility makes the Spark EV more versatile than its exterior dimensions might suggest.
Unbeatable Lease Deals and Running Costs
The original article highlights an incredibly attractive lease deal, a key factor in the Spark EV’s appeal. Combined with the lower running costs inherent to EVs – reduced maintenance and cheaper “fuel” (electricity) – the Spark EV presents a compelling value proposition. For budget-conscious drivers, the potential for significant savings compared to gasoline cars is a major draw.
User-Friendly Tech and Practical Electronics
The Spark EV prioritizes functionality over flashiness when it comes to its electronics. The large digital speedometer is a standout feature, offering excellent readability at a glance, enhancing driver awareness and safety. The infotainment system, while not cutting-edge, is functional and includes essential features like Bluetooth connectivity for audio and calls, and USB media playback. The inclusion of physical controls on the dashboard simplifies operation, particularly for frequently used functions.
Effective Air Conditioning and Climate Control
The air conditioning system in the Spark EV is effective, quickly cooling the cabin even in hot climates. The remote AC activation via the key fob is a convenient feature, allowing drivers to pre-cool the car before entering, enhancing comfort in hot weather. The energy-efficient AC system is a valuable asset, especially in warmer regions.
Fast Charging Capability for Extended Journeys
The inclusion of DC fast charging capability significantly expands the usability of the Spark EV. Being able to charge up to 80% in around 20 minutes at a fast-charging station makes longer trips feasible. The CCS charging standard compatibility ensures access to a growing fast-charging network, crucial for EV adoption and long-distance travel.
Reduced Maintenance Demands of Electric Vehicles
Like most EVs, the Spark EV benefits from reduced maintenance requirements compared to gasoline cars. Fewer moving parts translate to less frequent servicing and lower long-term maintenance costs. Routine maintenance primarily involves tire rotations, wiper blade replacements, and occasional fluid checks, simplifying ownership and potentially saving money over time.
Comfortable Driving Position and Ergonomics
The Spark EV’s design incorporates a higher hip point, contributing to a comfortable driving position, particularly for drivers who prefer a more upright seating posture. While the steering wheel doesn’t telescope, the overall ergonomics are well-considered for a car in this class.
Addressing the Spark EV’s Shortcomings: Points to Consider
While the Spark EV has many strengths, it’s important to acknowledge its weaknesses and areas where improvements could be made.
Traction Control System Quirks
One notable issue raised in the original review is the behavior of the traction control system. In certain situations, particularly when accelerating from a stop on uneven surfaces or during turns where wheel slip occurs, the traction control can excessively reduce power for a noticeable duration. This can be disconcerting and potentially create safety concerns in specific scenarios, such as merging into traffic uphill after a turn. While likely intended as a safety feature, the implementation may be overly aggressive, potentially hindering rather than helping in certain driving situations.
Minor Design and Ergonomic Issues
The original review points out several smaller areas for potential improvement:
- Non-telescoping Steering Wheel: The lack of steering wheel reach adjustment can limit optimal driving position for some individuals.
- Front Headrest Angle: The forward angle of the front headrests may be uncomfortable for some drivers.
- Subpar Stock Speakers: Audio quality from the standard speakers is described as lacking, potentially impacting enjoyment for audiophiles.
- Limited Adjustability of Audio Settings: Independent adjustment of fade and balance is not possible, restricting customization of the audio experience.
- Small Wheels and Speed Bump Sensitivity: The small wheel diameter can make the car more susceptible to bumps and road imperfections, requiring very slow speeds over larger speed bumps.
- Stiff Brake Pedal Feel: The brake pedal requires more force than some drivers might be accustomed to, particularly when reversing on inclines.
- Rattling AC Vents: The AC vents may rattle at higher fan speeds, a minor annoyance.
- Lack of True Coasting: The car exhibits slight regenerative braking even when no pedals are pressed, preventing true coasting and potentially impacting efficiency in certain driving scenarios.
- Flexible Cargo Area Cover: The cargo area cover is described as flimsy and could be improved with a sturdier, hinged design.
- Small Sun Visors: The sun visors are noted as being too small to effectively block sun glare from the side.
- Limited Low-Speed Torque: Torque output is intentionally limited at very low speeds (0-15 mph).
- Low Maximum Load Capacity: The vehicle’s stated maximum load capacity is relatively low.
- Mute Button Functionality: The steering wheel mute button only mutes audio, not pausing playback.
- Cruise Control Button Design: Cruise control buttons are described as difficult to distinguish by touch.
- Lack of Fan Speed/Temperature Display: Fan speed and target temperature are not displayed when the infotainment screen is off.
- Inconvenient AC Off Operation: Turning off the AC requires cycling the fan speed control to zero rather than a dedicated off button.
- Slow Infotainment Boot Time: The infotainment system takes several seconds to start up.
- No Battery kWh Readout: There is no direct display of remaining battery capacity in kilowatt-hours.
- No Rear Dome Light: The absence of a dome light in the back seat area reduces nighttime visibility for rear passengers.
- Poor Cargo Area Lighting: The cargo area light is poorly positioned and easily obstructed.
Real-World Reliability: Addressing Potential Concerns
The original reviewer reports a generally positive reliability experience with their Spark EV, citing only minor issues:
- Software Recall: A recall for airbag software updates is mentioned, a common occurrence in modern vehicles.
- Loose Sun Visor Hook: A minor manufacturing defect with a loose sun visor hook was easily rectified by the dealer.
- Infrequent Infotainment Glitch: An occasional software glitch causing radio preset page issues was reported but deemed infrequent and not readily reproducible.
These reported issues appear relatively minor and don’t suggest systemic reliability problems.
Practical Advice for New Spark EV Owners
Based on the long-term ownership experience, here’s some practical advice for those considering or new to the Chevy Spark EV:
- Touchscreen Tip: Using a fingernail for touchscreen inputs can improve responsiveness.
- Seat Position Marking: For multi-driver households, using tape to mark seat positions can simplify driver changes.
- Seat Adjustment Recommendations: Experiment with higher seat height and further back positioning for optimal comfort.
- Tire Upgrade Recommendation: Consider upgrading to high-performance summer tires for enhanced handling and acceleration, especially if performance is a priority.
- Sunshade Recommendation: Invest in a good quality sunshade, like the Heatshield brand, to mitigate heat buildup, particularly in sunny climates.
Conclusion: Is the Chevy Spark EV a Smart Choice?
The Chevy Spark EV presents a compelling package as an affordable and fun-to-drive electric city car. Its strengths lie in its peppy acceleration, city-friendly size, surprising practicality, and low running costs, particularly when considering favorable lease deals that were available. While it has some minor shortcomings and quirks, as detailed in this review, these are largely outweighed by its advantages, especially for drivers whose primary needs are urban commuting and efficient, enjoyable driving.
For those seeking an entry point into the EV world or a practical and economical city car, the Chevy Spark EV remains a worthy contender, especially on the used market where prices may be even more attractive. It’s a testament to the fact that EVs can be both accessible and genuinely fun to drive, even in a compact and budget-friendly form factor.
