A spark of mobility

Denver isn’t necessarily a big city, but it still has the top issue of any urban environment: space. With a lack of space comes a lack of parking. That is, unless you have a car that can zip into any corner. We could be talking about the urban chic MINI or the two-seat Smart ForTwo – but this time we’re referring to the latest minicar to compete in the urban buyer’s challenge. Let us introduce to you the bright and somewhat-striking 2013 Chevrolet Spark.

City dwelling requires an assessment of priorities, even budget consciousness. The Chevy Spark seeks to satisfy by offering ownership starting at $12,185. That fairly small bit of dough will get you four wheels, four seats and a parallel parking champion at more than 12 feet long. Moreover, you get air conditioning, 10 air bags, auxiliary radio input, power windows, cruise control, anti-lock brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system standard. Sounds pretty good, right? Wait, you wanted a little more luxury? Option up your Spark to the 2LT package like our Techno Pink test car and it will tip the scales at $16,720, but add machined alloy wheels, heated seats, leatherette appointments, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity and an automatic transmission.

OK, so Techno Pink might not be your color, but this peppy urban fighter comes in a lot of colors that will spark your imagination (or your appetite) like Jalapeño, Lemonade and Salsa. If you like more subdued options then lean toward Denim, Black Granite or Summit White. So far it sounds like the Spark is right in the hunt for your urban city dollars along with competitors like the Scion IQ, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Fiat 500, Honda Fit or the two-foot longer Nissan Versa. Add 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway and the non-hybrid Chevrolet Spark will also keep you from spending your hard earned dollars at the pump. It isn’t class leading, but it is reasonable for a car of its size.

Getting down to brass tacks, the Spark is the replacement for the Chevrolet Aveo. In comparison, the Spark is a real step up and is a nice driving car, especially given its short length. Inside, the engine noise from the 1.2-Liter four-cylinder engine (a similar size to some touring motorcycles) is noticeable, but not unexpected. Need to get to Blackhawk for some Texas Hold’em or the loose penny slots? The Spark can even hack the I-70 grade while still maintaining 65 mph. You can even enjoy up to 31.2 cu. ft. of cargo space with both seats folded down; or get a shopping trip in with three friends with cargo room at 11.4 cu. ft. That means you can get a sports equipment bag in the trunk while still giving three of your friends a ride. Now that is some friendly urban living.