The 2021 Chevrolet Spark is a tiny four seat hatchback built to be one of the cheapest new cars in America. It started at $14,395 including destination, uses a 98 hp four cylinder and rates up to 38 mpg on the highway. It was also close to the end of the road, since the Spark was dropped after the 2022 model year. Here is what it offered, what it cost, and whether a used one still makes sense.
2021 Chevrolet Spark price by trim
Prices include the $995 destination charge.
| Trim | New price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| LS | $14,395 | Base car with 15 inch steel wheels |
| 1LT | $16,295 | Power windows and locks, cruise control, alloy wheels |
| Activ | $17,395 | SUV style trim with raised ride height and heated seats |
| 2LT | $17,795 | Push button start, rear parking sensors, heated seats |
The 2LT was a new trim for 2021. All trims use front wheel drive only.
Engine and fuel economy
Every 2021 Spark has a 1.4 liter four cylinder making 98 hp at 6,200 rpm and 94 lb ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. You can choose a five speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Fuel economy: the manual is rated at 29 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined. The CVT rates 30 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined. The Activ gives up about one mpg on the highway at 37.
How it drives
The Spark is light, at roughly 2,300 pounds, so 98 hp is enough for city driving and parking lot maneuvers. Highway acceleration is slow, and merging takes planning. The short wheelbase can mean a bumpy ride on bad pavement, and road noise is noticeable at speed. This is a city car first.
Interior and cargo space
The Spark seats four, not five. Front seats are acceptable for short trips, but the back seat lacks room and comfort for adults. Cargo space is 11.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 27.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Technology is a highlight at this price. Every trim has a 7 inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, two USB ports and air conditioning. The base LS has manual windows and door locks, and four speakers.
Safety
The Spark has the basic safety equipment required for its era but limited driver assistance. A package of driver assistance features was available only on the 2LT with the CVT. If modern safety tech is important to you, the Spark is not the best choice.
2021 Chevrolet Spark rivals
The Spark competed with the Mitsubishi Mirage and the Nissan Versa, and with small hatchbacks such as the Toyota Yaris and the Kia Rio. The Versa is larger and more refined, and the Mirage is similar in size and price. The Spark’s advantages are its CarPlay and Android Auto standard equipment and its low price. Its drawbacks are the weak engine and the cramped back seat.
Is a used 2021 Spark worth it?
Used prices often fall around $11,000 to $13,000, depending on trim, mileage and condition. That makes the Spark a low cost way to get a newer car, and a good fit for commuters, students and city drivers. If you regularly carry passengers or drive long highway distances, a larger used car will serve you better.
Before you buy:
- Check the maintenance records, especially CVT service on automatics.
- Test drive on the highway to see if the CVT drones or hesitates.
- Test the touchscreen, Bluetooth and CarPlay connection.
- Inspect the tires and look for uneven wear.
- Look for accident repairs and check the VIN for open recalls.
- Check the age of the battery.
Which trim should you buy?
The 1LT is the best value. It adds power windows, cruise control and alloy wheels over the base LS for roughly $1,900. The Activ is for buyers who want the SUV look and heated seats, though it costs more than the 1LT. The 2LT is mostly for people who want push button start and parking sensors, and by that point other small cars become competitive.
FAQ
How much is a 2021 Chevrolet Spark?
It started at $14,395 for the LS with destination. Used examples typically cost about $11,000 to $13,000.
How much horsepower does it have?
98 hp from a 1.4 liter four cylinder.
How many mpg does the 2021 Spark get?
Up to 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, depending on transmission and trim.
Can a 2021 Chevrolet Spark tow?
Chevrolet does not rate it for towing.
Is there a 2021 Spark EV?
No. The electric Spark was discontinued years earlier.
Does the 2021 Spark have CarPlay?
Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.