The Chevrolet Spark IV 1.4 ECOTEC (98 hp) Automatic, produced between 2015 and 2018, represented a key offering in Chevrolet’s subcompact car lineup. Positioned as an accessible and fuel-efficient city car, this variant utilized a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It was primarily marketed towards urban commuters and first-time car buyers seeking affordability and ease of use. The Spark IV, built on the GM Gamma platform, aimed to provide a modern and practical transportation solution in a shrinking vehicle segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Spark |
| Generation | Spark IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 ECOTEC (98 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2-6.4 l/100 km (37.9 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| 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-VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1033-1049 kg (2277.38 – 2312.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 313 l (11.05 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 771 l (27.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 34 l (8.98 US gal | 7.48 UK gal) |
| Length | 3636 mm (143.15 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 track | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.5 m (31.17 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14; 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Chevrolet Spark IV, launched in 2015, represented the fourth generation of Chevrolet’s city car. The 1.4 ECOTEC Automatic variant was a significant part of the lineup, offering a balance between affordability and convenience. Designed to appeal to a broad audience, particularly in urban environments, the Spark IV aimed to provide a practical and economical transportation solution. This model year saw a shift towards more modern safety features and improved interior appointments compared to its predecessors. The Spark IV was sold primarily in North America, South America, and select European markets.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Spark IV 1.4 Automatic lies the LV7 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 98 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 127 Nm (93.67 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy and smooth operation over outright performance. Paired with the engine is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides seamless gear changes and contributes to improved fuel efficiency. The CVT lacks defined gear steps, instead offering a continuously varying gear ratio to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine and CVT combination in the Spark IV delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as leisurely, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 11-12 seconds. The CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at higher RPMs during acceleration, which can result in a somewhat droning engine note. Compared to the available manual transmission, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness for ease of use. The CVT’s smooth operation makes it ideal for city driving, where frequent stop-and-go traffic is common. The Spark IV’s light weight helps to mitigate the engine’s modest power output, making it feel reasonably nimble in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 ECOTEC Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and standard safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels, such as the 1LT and 2LT, added features like Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and upgraded interior materials. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a premium audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with higher trims offering upgraded cloth or leatherette options. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Chevrolet Spark IV utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension in the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smooth roads. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this vehicle segment. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The Spark IV’s relatively light weight contributes to its manageable handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, though the car is not designed for aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Spark IV 1.4 Automatic received generally positive reviews for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. Critics praised its nimble handling in city traffic and its surprisingly spacious interior for a subcompact car. However, the engine’s lack of power and the CVT’s sometimes-unrefined operation were common criticisms. Compared to other trims in the Spark lineup, the 1.4 Automatic offered a more convenient driving experience than the manual transmission, but it sacrificed some fuel economy and performance. Competitors like the Mitsubishi Mirage and Nissan Versa offered similar value propositions, but the Spark IV often stood out with its more modern styling and available technology features.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Spark IV 1.4 ECOTEC Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The LV7 engine is known for its durability, and the CVT, while not universally loved, has generally held up well with proper maintenance. Common issues reported by owners include occasional CVT shuddering and minor electrical glitches. However, these issues are typically not major and can often be addressed with routine maintenance. Today, the Spark IV remains an affordable and practical option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable city car. Its fuel efficiency and compact size continue to make it a popular choice for urban commuters.
