The Good
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark offers exceptional fuel efficiency and maneuverability, appealing to practical buyers. Its compact design is perfect for city driving. A surprising amount of technology for its price point appeals to those seeking modern features. While not a powerhouse, it is reasonably reliable and provides good value for the money, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.
The Bad
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark's small engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or on the highway. The rear seats are cramped, limiting passenger comfort on longer trips. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and transmission. Potential buyers should carefully inspect for any signs of transmission slippage or electronic malfunctions and ensure regular maintenance has been performed.
2016 Chevrolet Spark: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.4L Ecotec inline-4
- Horsepower: 98 hp @ 6200 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Manual: 30 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
- Automatic (CVT): 31 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 11.3 seconds (Automatic)
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: 15-inch steel wheels, manual windows and locks, air conditioning, a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system.
- 1LT: Adds power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, remote start (automatic transmission only), steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and available OnStar with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
- 2LT: Includes leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear parking sensors, and chrome exterior trim.
2016 Chevrolet Spark Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Spark |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Korea |
| Manufacturing City | SAN LUIS POTOSI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LV7 - VVT: Variable Valve Timing, Aluminum GEN 1, VAR 1 |
| Engine Size | 1.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Chevrolet Spark Have?
Recalls for the 2016 Spark have included issues related to the hood latch potentially not engaging properly, increasing the risk of the hood opening while driving, and issues with the seat adjuster.
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the transmission and potential electronic glitches. Regular maintenance, including timely fluid changes, is crucial to mitigating these risks. Potential buyers should check for any service records related to these issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any underlying problems. Researching specific recalls and ensuring that necessary repairs have been completed is also highly recommended.
How long will the 2016 Chevrolet Spark last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited but include available rear parking sensors.
Safety features include ten standard airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2016 Spark an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the Spark a 'Good' rating in several crash tests, but 'Marginal' in the small overlap front test. While not brimming with advanced safety tech, the Spark offers a solid foundation of standard safety features and decent crash test ratings for a vehicle in its class.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Chevrolet Spark Prices and Market Value
2016 Chevrolet Spark Cost of Ownership
2016 Chevrolet Spark Fuel Efficiency
2016 Chevrolet Spark Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 Chevrolet Spark Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
2016 Chevrolet Spark Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Chevrolet Spark Compare to Other Hatchback?
In terms of performance, the Spark is adequate for city driving but lacks power on the highway compared to the Rio. Feature-wise, the Spark&38;#39;s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are a plus. Reliability is a mixed bag, with the Rio generally scoring higher.
Alternatives to the Spark include the Honda Fit (for its versatility and reliability) and the Nissan Versa Note (for its spacious interior). If reliability is a top priority, the Kia Rio or Honda Fit would be better choices. If budget is the primary concern and city driving is the main use case, the Spark is a viable option. The Mirage offers a similar value proposition but with less appealing driving dynamics.
Ranks #996 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 996 | 2016 Chevrolet Spark | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Chevrolet Spark a Good Hatchback?
Whether it's worth buying depends on individual needs and priorities. If you need a versatile, reliable car for long trips, look elsewhere. But if you need a cheap, maneuverable city car and are comfortable with its limitations, the Spark can be a worthwhile purchase. Just be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection and prioritize models with well-documented maintenance records.
Sparkster on June 1, 2023
Great economy car - still scared of CVTI have always driven large cars and trucks. This car has been so much fun for what it is. It is the most comfortable economy car I have ever driven. I am nervous about the cvt. I had the dealer (against their recommendation) flush the fluid and filter at 45K. We’re at 90k now so I’m going to have it done again. Considering it’s an economy car, it’s very good in every aspect except the 0-5mph acceleration. It just doesn’t want to get moving—but you get used to it, and it’s fine once it gets rolling. Fingers crossed that its reliability continues beyond 100k.
Kyle Murphy on February 24, 2023
OK for cityI got this car and it picks up once going, but getting to 45 is a challenge let alone 55. I use this car and I get frustrated when the rpms have to go up to 6500 and get going.
Lafe Cushnberry on October 28, 2022
Chevy spark 2016Because went driving the cars and hit the brake the car keep move on and U almost hit another car inside the car all screw have failed out under the seat two Thank you
Nic C. on September 17, 2022
Transmission on CVT is made to breakThe CVT model transmission is only made to last about 50,000 miles before it breaks down. Doing a $4,000 replacement transmission replacement every 2-3 years is not worth it. This car is not made to last and has very cheap parts.
Amanda G. on January 4, 2021
Perfect 1st CarThis car was perfect for my son's first car. Not a lot of trunk space, but that is the least of his worries and the back seats do fold down if he needs the room. The interior is very nice, black leather with heated front seats (this was very important to my son). It has a sun roof and all the necessities. Bluetooth and rear camera, as well as driving assistance and anti-theft. They put a lot into this little car.
BettyDavisEyes on February 29, 2020
Easy to driveI never expected the car to have so much get up and go. Unfortunately, the insolation and suspension are not the best. I feel every bump. It’s very loud on the highway. I can barely hear other people talking while driving on the highway.
AdmRyker on January 19, 2020
Super fun to drive. 🙂I am in love with the sound system. My car is green and accelerates with the force of one million billion galaxies. I really do enjoy the rides.
Pintopatty on January 1, 2020
really funGreat little car. So fun to drive. Great milage. Cute. Loved the standard shift. Winter tires helped but wish it had a little more ground clearance for snowy roads
Gremlin on December 18, 2019
My first brand new car!!! I love it!!!I love this car. I purchased her in July of 2016, and have never had a single issue. She just rolled over 50k miles this week. Great gas mileage, I get 38.4 mpg. I am happy to have the LS model, it has manual locks and windows, and does not have cruise control. I see this as less things to break in the future. The CarPlay feature is awesome. I feel safe I’m the vehicle, and there is plenty of room for myself, my daughter, and my travel bag/hanging bag .
ConcernedPastOwner on September 2, 2019
Easy to flipWe got a barely used Chevy Spark, and my daughter had an accident, she hit a parked car going under 3mph and flipped it. I feel concerned that this car flipped so easy!
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.