Unfortunately, it seems that everything has progressively become more expensive. It doesn't matter if we're talking about houses, food, or clothes; nothing appears to be able to avoid a price hike these days. As one might expect, the automobile has received this treatment (arguably more magnified) and, in doing so, has made an already expensive purchase more difficult to afford. So what are you to do if you want to buy a brand new car but don't have a lot of money to do so? Well, if Chevrolet has any say in the matter, they would like you to go and purchase their new 2021 Spark.

The Spark has been sold in the United States since 2012 and has been a contender for the title of America's cheapest car since its debut. Today, the base model of the Chevy Spark starts at $14,395; thus, making it the cheapest car in America. Like most of Chevrolet's models, the sub-compact comes with a 3 year/36,000 mile limited and 5 year/60,000-mile power-train warranty. In addition to the warranty, you'll also get a complimentary maintenance visit as long as it is used within your first year of owning the car.

Let's see what you can get for your money with the 2021 Chevy Spark.

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Technical Specifications

Spark driving through city
Via: Car and Driver

The Spark comes equipped with a 1.4L ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine that produces an uninspiring 98 hp. Despite this lack of power, the hatch is surprisingly spunky when driving in towns and cities. While the power unit probably won't allow you to set any lap records around the Nurburgring, enthusiasts may be happy to hear that the base model comes with a manual transmission as standard. This means that while you're cruising around getting 33 miles per gallon, you will also perform a public service by helping to "save the manuals".

Moving on to chassis components, the Spark comes standard with disk brakes and Macpherson struts in the front. In the back, drum brakes and a compound crank set up have been fitted. According to Car and Driver, the suspension does not provide enough cushion to significantly soften blows when driving over uneven surfaces; however, it is quite a bit better when compared to other cars in its class (so that's something). On a positive note, the suspension does at least allow it to be nimble and committed when taking corners at lower speeds.

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The Exterior: Simple And Colorful

Purple Spark
Via: Car and Driver

While Chevy doesn't appear to have tried very hard to make the Spark look significantly different from other cars in its class, they have at least provided some thoughtful touches. The Spark comes equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels instead of steel ones. The car has a nice little lip spoiler on the top of the tailgate, a dash of chrome around the body, and some seamlessly integrated rear door handles. While these features aren't exactly groundbreaking, the Spark does offer one thing that gives it an advantage in the aesthetics department: The colors.

Chevrolet currently offers some really fun and funky colors. Notable options include Passion Fruit (which is basically a plum purple), Cayenne Orange, Mystic Blue, and Caribbean Blue. While the latter 3 options will incur an additional charge of $395, it is probably safe to say that it is money well spent.

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The Interior: Unembellished, Yet Well Equipped

Inside of the 2021 Spark
Via: Car and Driver

Inside the Spark, keen-eyed individuals will likely notice that the interior is relatively well put together for a cheap car. Everything seems to fit well into place with little to no creaky plastics present. Unfortunately, one thing that will become blatantly obvious (especially to those with families) is how little room there is inside. To fit a normal-sized adult in the backseat, the driver/co-pilot will have to pull their seat forward. Additionally, there is not too much room to store cargo on account of the fact that the Spark has a meager 11 cubic feet of storage space (27 cubic feet with the rear seats folded).

Once seated, you'll be greeted with a good bit of kit inside of the cabin. Embedded in the center of the dashboard is a 7" touch screen infotainment system that allows for both Apple Play and Android Auto connectivity. Additionally, the unit also serves as a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and provides Bluetooth connectivity as standard. As with all Chevrolet vehicles, the Spark comes equipped with OnStar software and a free 6-month subscription. Those who want to keep the service can do so for an additional $34.99/month.

When it comes to driver aids and convenience, the little Chevy doesn't perform too badly. Among the standard features are traction control, electronic stability control, hill start assist, rear parking assist, a backup camera, and power locks. Unfortunately, cruise control is not one of these features. Also noticeably absent is the slew of collision alert system that we have become so used to seeing in every new vehicle; however, this may be a good thing depending on your preferences. If you do want these features, you can always get them if you are willing to shell out a little bit more money.

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Conclusion: It Gets the Job Done

Woman getting in spark
Via: Chevrolet.com

Overall, the Chevy Spark is a solid, fun, affordable car. While it may not be the most luxurious option, it does serve the purpose of giving you everything you need in a modern car for a very enticing price. It may be small and somewhat cramped, but it's fuel-efficient and well equipped. It is relatively simple when compared to other cars nowadays, but it does seem to give you more than expected. What more could you ask for from a good, cheap, new car?

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