The Chevrolet Spark IV (facelifted in 2018) with the 1.4-liter ECOTEC engine producing 98 horsepower represents a key iteration of Chevrolet’s subcompact offering in the North American market. Produced from 2018 to 2022, this variant aimed to provide an affordable and fuel-efficient entry point into the Chevrolet lineup. It was positioned as the mainstream trim level within the Spark IV range, slotting between the base LS model and the more feature-rich ACTIV trim. The Spark IV, built on the GM Gamma platform, was primarily targeted at urban commuters and first-time car buyers seeking a practical and economical vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Spark |
| Generation | Spark IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 ECOTEC (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 6.2-6.4 l/100 km (37.9 – 36.8 US mpg, 45.6 – 44.1 UK mpg, 16.1 – 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 4400 rpm (93.67 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LV7 |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1019 kg (2246.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 314 l (11.09 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 770 l (27.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 34 l (8.98 US gal | 7.48 UK gal) |
| Length | 3635 mm (143.11 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1483 mm (58.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 236 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 200 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Spark variant is the 1.4-liter LV7 ECOTEC inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The engine’s 10.6:1 compression ratio is a standard figure for naturally aspirated gasoline engines of this era. The 98 horsepower output, while not substantial, was considered adequate for the Spark’s intended purpose. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission for this trim was a 5-speed manual, offering drivers a direct connection to the engine. The engine’s design prioritized fuel economy and reliability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter, 98-horsepower Spark delivered modest acceleration. Real-world driving revealed a focus on usability rather than speed. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the overall experience was geared towards efficient commuting. Compared to the base 1.2L engine (not widely available in the US market), the 1.4L offered a noticeable improvement in responsiveness, particularly when merging onto highways or climbing hills. However, it lacked the punch of larger engines found in competing subcompacts. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine could feel strained at higher speeds. The relatively light weight of the Spark (around 2246 lbs) helped mitigate the engine’s limitations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2018-2022 Chevrolet Spark IV 1.4L trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display (usually 7 inches), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Safety features included ten airbags and the aforementioned ABS. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, upgraded audio systems, and cruise control. The ACTIV trim, positioned above the 1.4L, added features like a slightly raised ride height, unique exterior styling elements, and additional interior trim upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The Spark IV utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality for city driving, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight urban spaces. The relatively narrow tires (185/55 R15) contributed to fuel efficiency but limited grip during more aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Spark IV 1.4L was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and practical subcompact car. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, and its compact size made it easy to park and maneuver in crowded cities. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of power and its relatively basic interior. Compared to other subcompacts like the Kia Rio or Nissan Versa, the Spark offered a similar level of fuel efficiency but often lagged behind in terms of interior refinement and available features. Reliability reports were generally positive, with the ECOTEC engine proving to be reasonably durable.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Spark was discontinued in North America after the 2022 model year, reflecting a broader trend away from subcompact cars in the US market. However, the 1.4L ECOTEC engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination has proven to be relatively reliable in the used car market. Sparks from this era are often sought after by budget-conscious buyers looking for an economical and dependable vehicle. While not a performance icon, the Spark IV 1.4L served a valuable role in providing affordable transportation to a wide range of consumers.
