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Holden Spark

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Chevrolet Spark
Company typeSubsidiary product
IndustryAutomotive
PredecessorDaewoo Matiz
Founded1998
FounderDaewoo
Defunct2022
FateProduction ended, replaced by Chevrolet Trax (second generation)
Headquarters
Changwon
,
South Korea
Area served
Worldwide
ParentGeneral Motors (via GM Korea)

The Chevrolet Spark () is a city car manufactured by GM Korea, a subsidiary of General Motors, from 1998 until 2022. Initially created by Daewoo and introduced as the Daewoo Matiz (), the vehicle became part of GM's lineup following the acquisition of Daewoo Motors in 2002.

The third generation was sold worldwide, predominantly under the Chevrolet nameplate in North America, while it was known as the Holden Barina Spark in Australia and New Zealand. The fourth generation, which debuted in 2015, carried the Holden Spark badge in those regions. Additionally, this generation served as the foundation for the Opel Karl in Europe, the Vauxhall Viva in the United Kingdom, and the licensed VinFast Fadil in Vietnam.

In June 2013, a limited-edition all-electric version named the Chevrolet Spark EV was introduced in select U.S. markets. This model represented GM’s return to retail electric vehicles after ceasing production of the EV1 in 1999.

Within South Korea, the Spark complied with local light car regulations that offer benefits such as tax reductions and parking privileges based on vehicle dimensions and engine displacement.

Manufacturing at GM Korea’s Changwon facility concluded in 2022, with production shifting toward the second-generation Chevrolet Trax.

M100 (1998–2000)

Production of the Daewoo Matiz commenced in 1998, targeting both South Korean and various European markets under the internal designation M100. Its styling was influenced by the Italdesign Lucciola, a 1993 concept designed by Fabrizio Giugiaro at Italdesign, initially rejected by Fiat. The Matiz was equipped with a 0.8-litre gasoline engine paired with a transmission inherited from the Daewoo Tico, later upgraded by 2013 to include multipoint fuel injection. Engineering development took place at Daewoo's Worthing Technical Centre located in England. This model became Daewoo’s top-selling car across Europe and India for a period of four years.

Originating from the Daewoo Tico under license from Suzuki Alto, the Matiz shared its mechanical components and suspension setup with these vehicles, resulting in its narrow width that complied with Japanese kei car tax standards.

At launch, it featured a 0.8-litre straight-three engine based on the Suzuki F8B, delivering and torque figures while achieving fuel efficiency of . The vehicle could reach a maximum speed of and accelerate from zero to in approximately 17 seconds. The engine received refinements from Tickford, a UK-based company situated in Milton Keynes, which was acknowledged in promotional materials distributed within the UK.

The Matiz was initially available in three trim variants: E, S, and SE. The SE trim included amenities such as air conditioning, wheel covers, body-colored bumpers, rear spoiler, fog lamps, and stereo system. Optional extras comprised roof rails, power steering, central locking, electric front windows, antilock braking system (ABS), and a driver airbag. In some markets, an automatic transmission option was offered.

M150 (2000–2005)

The M150 facelift version was developed at Daewoo's Worthing Technical Centre in England and launched domestically in South Korea toward the end of 2000 before export sales began in 2001. The front design was updated to accommodate a four-cylinder engine; however, introduction of the 1.0-litre S-Tec engine was postponed until after General Motors completed its acquisition of Daewoo in 2002.

Production continued under GM-Uzbekistan (formerly UzDaewooAuto) until 2018. This model entered Russia's market as the Ravon Matiz starting in 2016 but was discontinued shortly thereafter. In South Korea and Japan, this iteration was sold as the Daewoo Matiz II.

Lechi (China)

In the Chinese market, the vehicle was initially marketed as the Chevrolet Lechi until 2012, when a refreshed version was introduced under the Baojun Lechi name. During a transitional phase, the model was available under both Chevrolet and Baojun badges. Enhancements to the powertrain enabled eligibility for government incentives and tax reductions in China, boosting its appeal in the local market.

Safety

Euro NCAP conducted safety testing on a right-hand drive five-door hatchback variant from the year 2000, with results as follows:

Test Rating Points
Overall: N/A N/A
Adult occupant: Template:Rating 19
Child occupant: N/A N/A
Pedestrian: Template:Rating 15
Safety assist: N/A N/A

Engines

This model featured three petrol engine options with the following details:

Model Engine type Displacement Power output Torque Acceleration 0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) Maximum speed CO2 emissions Remarks
0.8 I3 796 cc 51 PS (38 kW; 50 hp) 69 N⋅m (51 lb⋅ft) at 4,200 rpm 17.0 s 144 km/h (89 mph) 161 g/km
1.0 I4 995 cc 63 PS (46 kW; 62 hp) 87 N⋅m (64 lb⋅ft) at 4,300 rpm 14.2 s 155 km/h (96 mph) 157 g/km introduced in 2002
1.2 I4 1,206 cc 86 PS (63 kW; 85 hp) 108 N⋅m (80 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm 13.9 s 160 km/h (99 mph) 180 g/km China market from 2009

Intellectual Property Dispute

The Chery QQ3 (previously known as Chery QQ) became the subject of an intellectual property controversy after General Motors claimed it was a direct copy of the Daewoo Matiz. GM representatives pointed out that numerous parts, including doors, were interchangeable between the two models without any alterations.

GM China Group declared that both vehicles "exhibited strikingly similar body structures, external and internal designs, as well as critical components." Industry insiders referred to the QQ as essentially a "clone" or "carbon copy" of the Matiz.

According to The Detroit News, this legal conflict highlights the complexities and aspirations within China's developing automotive sector, where international manufacturers face competition from domestic companies aiming for dominance in what could become the largest global market.

Second generation (M200, M250; 2005)

In 2005, the Matiz experienced significant redesigns (M200), first previewed by the Chevrolet M3X concept showcased at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. The upper body received a redesign by Italdesign Giugiaro, complemented by refreshed S-Tec engines and improved aerodynamic features to boost fuel efficiency. The interior was updated with a centrally located instrument cluster. The chassis saw upgrades as well, replacing the former three-link beam axle with a twist-beam rear suspension and introducing cast lower control arms in front.

By 2008, enhancements to the 800 cc engine reduced CO₂ emissions below 120 g/km, qualifying it for £35 annual road tax in the UK and exemption from London's congestion charge.

Across Europe, it was sold under both Chevrolet Matiz and Chevrolet Spark names. Italy offered an LPG-powered variant called Chevrolet Matiz Eco Logic, produced between 2007 and 2010 with over 60,000 units manufactured by BRC Gas Equipment.

In South Korea, following the launch of the M300 Matiz Creative, this M200 model was rebranded as Matiz Classic and exclusively equipped with the 800 cc engine. Worldwide production for this generation reached roughly 2.3 million units within its first ten years.

By 2011, Vietnam's VIDAMCO assembled the M200 locally as the Chevrolet Spark Lite through complete knock-down (CKD) kits at its Hanoi plant.

GM India introduced two special editions derived from this generation: a Chevrolet Spark LPG featuring a sequential injection LPG system launched on World Environment Day, and the Chevrolet Spark Muzic edition in 2009.

Safety

Euro NCAP assessment outcomes for the 2005 five-door hatchback model:

Test Rating Points
Overall: N/A N/A
Adult occupant: Template:Rating 17
Child occupant: Template:Rating 30
Pedestrian: Template:Rating 13
Safety assist: N/A N/A

Engines

Model Engine type Displacement Output Torque Acceleration 0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) Maximum speed CO2 emissions Remarks
0.8 I3 796 cc 52 PS (38 kW; 51 hp) 72 N⋅m (53 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm 18.2 s 145 km/h (90 mph) 123 g/km
1.0 I4 995 cc 66 PS (49 kW; 65 hp) 91 N⋅m (67 lb⋅ft) at 4,200 rpm 14.1 s 156 km/h (97 mph) 133 g/km

Third generation (M300; 2009)

Introduced in 2009, the revamped Matiz (code-named M300) draws its design from the 2007 Chevrolet Beat concept. Marketed worldwide as the Chevrolet Spark, it retained the Beat nameplate exclusively in India, where the earlier Spark generation continued to be sold. In select Latin American countries, it appeared as either the Beat or Spark GT. Prior to discontinuing the Daewoo brand in South Korea in 2011, this model was sold under the Daewoo Matiz Creative name.

At the 2009 North American International Auto Show, GM presented a pre-production Chevrolet Beat called Spark, confirming production plans although only the concept was exhibited. The production version of the Spark premiered at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show and launched across Europe in early 2010, followed by other global markets. US availability commenced in early 2012 for the 2013 model year. Manufacturing in India began in December 2009 at Halol, Gujarat, with an official launch as the Chevrolet Beat during January 2010 at New Delhi’s Auto Expo.

The M300 generation transitioned from the original Suzuki-based platform to GM’s Global Small Vehicles architecture (Gamma II), engineered by GM Daewoo.

Production sites encompassed South Korea (Changwon), India (Talegaon), South Africa (Port Elizabeth), Colombia (Bogotá), Uzbekistan (Asaka), and Vietnam (Hanoi).

Concept

The Chevrolet Beat concept was unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show alongside the Trax and Groove concepts. This three-door hatchback, influenced by the Daewoo Kalos, was crafted by GM Daewoo in South Korea and featured a 1.2 L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an automatic transmission.

In early 2007, GM conducted an online poll via a Chevrolet website to gauge consumer interest among the Beat, Trax, and Groove concepts. The Beat captured nearly half of all votes, leading to its green light for production.

Additionally, GM revealed a prototype woodie-style Chevrolet Spark at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. This variant appeared as Skids’ vehicle form in the film Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009), showcasing Vertigo Green paint both inside and out, LED headlamps and taillamps, and 17-inch wheels equipped with matching green brake calipers. The design featured a pronounced rear roofline tapering toward the front grille.

Facelifts

The initial facelift debuted at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, featuring a refreshed dual-port grille, redesigned front bumper, updated headlamp covers, and new fog lamps. This revised look was introduced in North America for the 2013 model year and became available in India by February 2014. Meanwhile, the facelifted Holden Barina Spark kept its original front bumper but incorporated a redesigned grille.

A second update was released in 2017 for the 2018 model year, drawing design cues from the fourth-generation Spark (M400). Primarily manufactured in India and Colombia, this revision focused on emerging markets.


Beat sedan/notchback (NB)

At the 2016 Auto Expo in India, a four-door sedan prototype named the Chevrolet Essentia was presented. Following GM’s withdrawal from the Indian market in 2017, local production of the Essentia was halted; however, it was exported to Latin American countries as the Beat or Beat NB (notchback), either as fully assembled vehicles or in knock-down kits for assembly by GM Colmotores.

The Beat and its notchback version were phased out in Mexico by August 2021, spanning model years 2018 through 2021. The Beat Notchback Taxi model remained in service in Colombia until 2022.


Spark/Beat Activ

A crossover-inspired variant called the Chevrolet Spark GT Activ or Chevrolet Beat Activ was revealed as a concept at the 2016 Auto Expo in India but never reached that market due to GM’s exit. Production models have been sold across various Latin American countries since 2018.


United States

Production of the third-generation Spark for the U.S. market began on April 16, 2012, with dealerships receiving it by August of that year. Sold under the Chevrolet Spark nameplate, it is equipped with an enhanced "S-TEC II" powertrain (RPO LL0).

By July 2012, the 2013 Spark became the fastest-selling car in the U.S., with all units sold within six days of launch.

The 2014 edition introduced a Jatco M4M-CVT7 continuously variable transmission (CVT) featuring a final drive ratio reduced to 3.75. This change boosted fuel efficiency on highways and lowered engine noise; however, urban mileage and noise levels saw a slight increase. Despite these improvements, industry reports highlighted some reliability issues associated with Jatco CVTs.

Domino's DXP

The Domino's DXP, short for "Delivery eXPert," is a 2015 Chevrolet Spark modified by Roush Performance specifically for Domino's Pizza. It serves as a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional canopy-style delivery vehicle. Built on the mid-tier 1LT Spark platform, this model removes both front and rear passenger seats to accommodate specialized storage units capable of carrying 80 pizzas, two 2-liter bottles of soda, and dipping sauces. The warming oven is integrated into the left rear door and can only be accessed using a key fob or via a button inside the driver's door. The original grille of the Spark is replaced with a custom black grille featuring the Domino's emblem, accompanied by a tailored lower body kit and Domino's-branded vinyl wrapping, topped off with an illuminated roof sign.

Production numbers are capped at fewer than 200 units. Each DXP is decommissioned after reaching 100,000 miles and sent back to Roush for refurbishment to its original factory specifications before being resold as used Sparks. All safety elements remain functional but are concealed. Although Domino’s intended to phase out all DXPs, some damaged vehicles have been privately salvaged as rare collector’s items, leading to threatened legal action from a Domino's franchise owner.

Europe

The third-generation Spark was first introduced at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show and became available in Europe in early 2010. Engine choices include 1.0- and 1.2-liter inline-four units. In Italy, the Chevrolet Spark Eco Logic bi-fuel LPG variant, fitted with BRC Gas Equipment, has been offered since late 2009 with both engine options producing between 113 and 119 grams of CO2. While LPG-powered models continue to be sold in Italy, their availability in France was limited to the period from 2009 through 2012.

India

Production of the third-generation Beat commenced at General Motors' Halol facility near Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on 15 December 2009. The Beat was launched in India on 5 January 2010 at the Auto Expo in New Delhi and was sold alongside the more budget-friendly second-generation Spark. It comes equipped with a 1.2 L S-TEC II engine capable of running on petrol or LPG autogas under the Smartech II branding. To qualify for reduced taxation on vehicles under 1,200 cc, the engine displacement was slightly reduced from 1,206 cc to 1,199 cc.

In July 2011, GM introduced a diesel variant of the Beat in India featuring a 936 cc three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine based on Fiat Multijet technology. This engine produces 62.5 PS and 160 Nm of torque, allowing acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 16 seconds and achieving a top speed of 142 km/h. According to ARAI testing, this diesel model delivers fuel efficiency of approximately 24 km/L.

GM India had initially planned to launch an electric version of either the Spark or Beat in partnership with Reva Electric Car Company but discontinued these plans following Reva’s acquisition by Mahindra & Mahindra. Instead, GM chose to develop its own electric vehicle independently.

At Auto Expo 2016, GM India revealed two concepts: the four-door sedan Chevrolet Essentia and the crossover-inspired Beat Activ. Neither model entered production for the Indian market due to Chevrolet’s withdrawal from India in 2017; however, both were exported to Latin American markets until production ceased in 2021.

Mexico

The third-generation Spark was introduced in Mexico in July 2010 as a model for the 2011 year but did not replace the Chevrolet Matiz (previously marketed as Pontiac G2 Matiz), which remained available until 2015. A facelift released mid-2017 rebranded it as the Chevrolet Beat.

On August 5, 2021, production of the Beat ended following the shutdown of GM’s Talegaon plant in India. This left the Aveo as Chevrolet’s sole entry-level offering within Mexico.

Philippines

In the Philippines, the third-generation Spark was available with 1.0 L and 1.2 L engines, offered in two variants: the LS, which came with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the LT, equipped with a 5-speed manual. Production ceased in 2015.

South Korea

Debuting at the 2009 Seoul Motor Show as the Daewoo Matiz Creative, this model was powered by a 1.0 L S-TEC II engine paired with a 4-speed automatic gearbox. Sales commenced on 1 September 2009, reintroducing the Groove name as a trim option.

By 2011, to retire the Daewoo brand, the vehicle was rebranded as the Chevrolet Spark within the South Korean market.

Australasia

The third-generation Spark made its entry into Australia and New Zealand in October 2010 during the Australian International Motor Show, marketed as the MJ series Holden Barina Spark. It was sold in CD and CDX trim levels before being discontinued in February 2018, succeeded by the fourth-generation model.

Uzbekistan

The Chevrolet Spark was launched in Uzbekistan in August 2010, available in three trim levels: L (with a 1.0 L manual transmission), LS (offering both manual and automatic 1.0 L options), and LT (equipped with a 1.2 L manual gearbox).

Russia

Since 2016, the Spark manufactured in Uzbekistan has been introduced to the Russian market under the Ravon R2 nameplate, featuring a 1.2 L engine combined with an automatic transmission.

Safety

The basic Latin American version of the Korean-produced Spark, lacking airbags and ABS, received zero stars for adult occupant protection and two stars for child occupant safety from Latin NCAP in 2014.

Similarly, the Indian-built Spark GT without airbags, ABS, or ESC in its basic Latin American specification earned zero stars for both adult and child occupant protection in 2016.

Powertrain

Model Engine Displacement Power Torque 0 to 100 km/h Top speed CO2 emissions Notes
colspan="9" Template:Rh|Petrol engines
1.0 S-TEC II I4 995 cc 68 PS (50 kW; 67 hp) at 6,400 rpm 93 N⋅m (69 lb⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm 15.5 sec. 96 mph (154 km/h) 119 g/km
1.2 1,206 cc 81 PS (60 kW; 80 hp) at 6,400 rpm 111 N⋅m (82 lb⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm 12.1 sec. 102 mph (164 km/h) 119 g/km
1.2 1,199 cc 80.5 PS (59.2 kW; 79.4 hp) at 6,200 rpm 108 N⋅m (80 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm 115 g/km India only
1.2 1,249 cc 84 hp (62.5 kW) at 6400 rpm 112 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm 11.3 sec. 130 g/km North America
colspan="9" Template:Rh|LPG engines
1.2 S-TEC II I4 1,199 cc 80.04 PS (58.87 kW; 78.95 hp) at 6,400 rpm 104 N⋅m (77 lb⋅ft) at 4,400 rpm 72 g/km India only
colspan="9" Template:Rh|Diesel engines
1.0 XSDE I3 936 cc 62.5 PS (46.0 kW; 61.6 hp) 150 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm 16.0 sec. [convert: needs a number] 108 g/km India only; introduced in 2011


Spark EV

The Chevrolet Spark EV is a limited-run 5-door hatchback electric vehicle powered solely by a battery, produced by Chevrolet between 2013 and 2016. It primarily functioned as a compliance vehicle to satisfy regulatory requirements for electric cars in certain U.S. states, rather than aiming for widespread consumer adoption.[1][2]

Initially announced in October 2011 and revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2012,[3][4] the Spark EV marked GM's first fully electric passenger vehicle available in the U.S. since the EV1.[5]

Sales

The Spark EV debuted in June 2013, with initial distribution confined to California and Oregon.[6] The very first lease was granted to a household in Los Angeles.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name In 2015, the model expanded its reach to Maryland, representing its first availability on the East Coast.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

By December 2014, cumulative U.S. sales had reached 1,684 units.[7] In April 2015, GM reduced the price by $1,650 to $25,995 and introduced a $139 monthly lease option combined with additional state incentives,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name which propelled monthly sales from roughly 100 units to 920 in that month alone.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Production ceased in December 2016 as Chevrolet redirected efforts toward the longer-range Bolt EV.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Retail availability commenced in South Korea in October 2013,Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name while limited fleet sales began in Canada during 2014.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Technical

The original Spark EV utilized a 21.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery supplied by A123 Systems,[5][8] noted for its improved longevity and safety due to nanophosphate cathode technology.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name For the 2015 model year, GM transitioned to a smaller capacity (19 kWh) lithium-ion battery from LG Chem,[9] preserving an EPA-estimated driving range near 82 miles and a combined efficiency rating of 119 MPGe.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The lighter battery pack reduced weight by approximately 86 pounds and incorporated liquid thermal management.[10]

Charging capabilities included a standard onboard AC charger rated at 3.3 kW and an optional CCS Combo DC fast charger that could replenish the battery to about 80% capacity within roughly 20 minutes. A full charge via AC power required around seven hours using a dedicated 240-volt station or nearly twenty hours when connected to a standard household outlet.[10] Notably, it was the first vehicle sold in the U.S. equipped with a CCS Combo charging inlet.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

The initial electric motor delivered an output of 130 horsepower and torque of 400 lb-ft,[11]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name manufactured at GM's Baltimore plant and assembled into vehicles in South Korea.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name For the model year of 2015, motor output was adjusted to 105 kW with torque decreased to 327 lb-ft alongside an updated drive ratio changing from 3.17 to 3.87.[10]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Fourth Generation (M400; 2015)

The fourth iteration of the Spark, known as the M400 and designed under the guidance of GM Global Design Chief Michael Simcoe, was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in April 2015 and became available later that year. This generation was sold under various names: Holden Spark in Australasia, Opel Karl across Europe, Vauxhall Viva in the United Kingdom, and licensed as the VinFast Fadil in Vietnam. Notable design modifications included an updated instrument cluster, redesigned side panels with swaging, and the addition of a small quarter window on the rear door that replaced the previously positioned high-mounted door handles.

Powertrain

In the North American market, the fourth-generation Spark was equipped with a 1.4-liter LV7 DOHC inline-four gasoline engine delivering and of torque. Meanwhile, versions sold domestically in Korea as well as Opel, Vauxhall, and Holden models featured a smaller 1.0-liter engine offering 75 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque.

Engine Specifications
Engine Displacement Power Output Torque (0-60 mph) Top Speed Notes
1.0 L 999 cc 75 hp 70 lb-ft 12.4 s 108 mph Available only in Korea and Europe
1.4 L 1399 cc 98 hp 94 lb-ft 11 s

United States

The Spark was offered in four trim levels: entry-level LS, mid-tier 1LT, lifestyle-focused ACTIV (introduced in 2017), and premium 2LT. Buyers could select between a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) across all trims.

Canada

In Canada, the Spark was available in LS, 1LT, and 2LT trims. The automatic transmission-equipped 1LT trim accounted for approximately 85% of total sales.

Mexico

Introduced on November 4, 2015 as a 2016 model, the Spark was offered in LT and LTZ trims in Mexico, both powered by the 1.4-liter engine.

2018 Facelift

For the 2019 model year, the Spark received a mid-cycle update that included an upgraded third-generation seven-inch Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, refreshed exterior design elements, optional low-speed autonomous emergency braking (AEB) on selected models, and new paint options. This facelift reached U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2018. In Mexico, it arrived in October 2018 as a 2019 model year update, with the LTZ trim being replaced by Premier and Activ variants.

Spark Activ

The Activ trim was introduced in 2018 as an intermediate option between the 1LT and 2LT trims. It featured leatherette-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels, distinctive black exterior accents, roof rails, rear liftgate badging, and an increased ground clearance by 0.4 inches. This trim was not sold in Canada.

Discontinuation

Chevrolet ended production of the Spark following the 2022 model year, ceasing manufacturing operations in August 2022. The Spark held the distinction of being the most affordable new vehicle on sale in both the U.S. and Canadian markets. Production for South Korea concluded on September 8, 2022.

Chevrolet Spark EV

The Chevrolet Spark EV is a rebadged version of the Wuling Air EV, marketed specifically in Egypt.

Chevrolet Spark EUV

The Chevrolet Spark EUV is based on a rebadged Baojun Yep Plus and is targeted at markets in the Middle East and Latin America.

Asia

In India, the vehicle initially appeared in 1999 as the Daewoo Matiz, with the third generation introduced in 2007 under the Chevrolet Spark name. In Japan, it was retailed by GM Daewoo through Yanase Co., Ltd., classified as a compact car since it exceeded the dimensions allowed for Kei cars. The Philippines experienced unofficial imports from 1999 to 2000 before the Chevrolet Spark was officially launched in 2007. Pakistan saw its introduction in 2003 as the Chevrolet Exclusive, with production by Nexus Automotive from 2005 until 2009 under the name Chevrolet Joy, later evolving into the current Chevrolet Spark M200 series. In Taiwan, Formosa Automobile marketed the Matiz between 2001 and 2009.

Europe

Between 1998 and 2004, the Matiz was distributed in Europe bearing the Daewoo emblem. In 2004, it transitioned to the Chevrolet brand alongside other GM South Korean models such as the Lacetti and Kalos. Since 2000, complete knock-down (CKD) kits have been provided to UzDaewooAuto, FSO, and Rodae for local assembly and sales in Uzbekistan, Poland, and Romania respectively. Early in 2005, FSO began selling the Matiz under its own branding. In the UK, the Chevrolet Matiz was briefly marketed as the Chevrolet Spark. The fourth generation was available throughout much of Europe as the Opel Karl and in the UK as the Vauxhall Viva until both were discontinued in 2019.

Americas

The Matiz made its Mexican debut in 2003 and was rebranded Pontiac Matiz G2 in 2006. It also appeared as Pontiac Matiz and Pontiac G2 before being phased out after 2010 due to GM’s discontinuation of the Pontiac brand. The updated model launched as the Chevrolet Spark in August 2010 while the original Matiz remained available concurrently. Brazil produces an M300-based variant serving as a successor to the Chevrolet Celta. In Colombia, Daewoo imported the Matiz from 2002 to 2005 before GM Colmotores took over assembly and sales under the Chevrolet Spark badge; a dedicated taxi model named 7/24 was introduced in 2006. The Chevrolet Spark is sold across Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Argentina initially imported first-generation units labeled Daewoo Matiz but has marketed subsequent generations as Chevrolet Spark since 2011. In Chile, Ecuador, and Peru, earlier models carry the Chevrolet Spark name while newer versions are branded as Chevrolet Spark GT. Paraguay shifted from Daewoo Matiz to Chevrolet dealerships starting in 2008.

In North America, three trim levels—1LS, 1LT, and 2LT—were available alongside an electric vehicle variant. Beginning with the 2016 model year in Canada, the Spark became that country’s most affordable new car at a base price of $9,988 CAD; this entry-level version did not include air conditioning and came with a manual transmission. It primarily competed with similarly priced vehicles such as the Nissan Micra until that model was discontinued in Canada after 2019.

Africa

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) revealed on October 2, 2010 plans to produce the new Chevrolet Spark at its Port Elizabeth facility. The second generation continued to be offered under the name 'Spark Lite'.

Middle East

In Iran, the Matiz was manufactured—initially brought in as imports and subsequently assembled domestically—under the name Daewoo Matiz. Meanwhile, in Israel, Universal Motors Israel (UMI) launched sales of the 1.2L Chevrolet Spark model beginning on 18 January 2011.

Australasia

In the markets of Australia and New Zealand, the Spark was retailed under the Holden badge starting from February 2016. It was available in two versions: the entry-level LS, which included steel wheels, central locking, and Holden's MyLink infotainment system; and the LT trim, which added 15-inch alloy wheels, keyless access, and a rearview camera.

Owing to a downturn in small car purchases within Australia, Holden ceased Spark sales there in April 2018. However, the model remained available in New Zealand until the discontinuation of the Holden brand in 2020.

Sales

Year United States South Korea Europe Mexico
Matiz/Spark Spark Spark EV Beat Matiz
1999 90,524
2000 104,481
2001 69,106
2002 58,640
2003 50,539
2004 79,409
2005 73,189
2006 61,456
2007 67,352
2008 65,562
2009 78,748
2010 73,769
2011 65,205
2012 12,385 46,562 23,107 16,048
2013 34,130 37,268 29,505 16,481
2014 39,159 10,138 36,479 21,362
2015 32,853 479 42,827 2 23,786
2016 35,511 96 74,075 3
2017 22,589 47,244 2 46,990 40,220
2018 23,602 39,868 3 9,690 70,656
2019 31,281 35,513
10,243 69,114
2020 33,478 28,935
5,463 41,782
2021 24,459 17,975
3,562 19,265
2022 13,710 10,963

See also

References

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  6. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named EVreleased
  7. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Sales2014US
  8. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named GCC101211
  9. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named GM Shifts 2015 Chevy Spark EV Battery Manufacturing To In-House Facility
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named spark16
  11. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named CR062013
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