Do Chevy Sparks get good gas mileage?

The Chevrolet Spark is a tiny city hatchback known for its lightweight design and small engine, which typically translates to solid fuel economy for its class. In everyday use, it often delivers efficient mileage, especially on highways, though real-world results depend on year, trim, and driving style.

In practice, the Spark generally offers competitive fuel efficiency for a subcompact. Most model years and configurations fall in the low-to-mid 30s miles per gallon (mpg) in combined driving, with highway numbers frequently reaching the high 30s to low 40s mpg. City driving tends to be lower, and variations arise from transmission choice, tire setup, maintenance, and how you drive. For buyers considering a used Spark, mileage and maintenance history are important factors, just as with any older car.

What fuel economy to expect from the Chevrolet Spark

The following ranges reflect typical EPA estimates and common configurations for Spark models sold in the United States. Exact numbers vary by year, engine, and transmission.

• 1.2L engine with 5-speed manual: roughly in the low-to-mid 30s mpg combined; city mileage often in the upper 20s and highway mileage in the high 30s to low 40s.


• 1.2L engine with 4-speed automatic: typically a touch lower in city driving, with combined mileage commonly in the low 30s mpg range; highway performance similar to the manual.


• Recent generations and market differences: some model years show slightly better highway efficiency, pushing highway numbers toward the low-to-mid 40s mpg in favorable conditions; combined mpg generally remains in the mid-30s.

These figures are approximate EPA ranges and can vary by year, trim, and driving conditions. If you’re evaluating a specific used Spark, check the exact EPA ratings for that model year and transmission, and compare them with your typical driving pattern.

In short, the Spark is a reasonable choice for drivers prioritizing mileage in a city-friendly package, especially on highway trips. It won’t top every modern subcompact, but its efficiency is competitive within its segment.

Factors that affect mileage

Mileage on a Spark isn’t just about the engine. A variety of factors can move the numbers up or down in daily life.

Engine and transmission specifics

• Manual transmissions can yield slightly different mpg than automatics due to gearing and driver technique.


• Fewer cylinders and lighter weight help with efficiency, but highway speeds and load still influence results.

These technical aspects matter, but so do how you drive and maintain the car. Regular maintenance helps you approach the EPA estimates more closely.

Driving conditions and maintenance

• Urban stop-and-go traffic typically lowers mpg versus steady highway cruising.


• Proper tire inflation, clean air filters, and a well-tuned engine can improve miles per gallon.


• Carrying extra weight or roof racks increases wind resistance and lowers efficiency.

Understanding these factors helps you manage expectations and maximize the Spark’s fuel economy in real life.

Tips to maximize fuel economy

Practices that help squeeze more mpg from a Spark are fairly universal for small cars. Here are practical steps you can take to improve efficiency.

• Drive smoothly: avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking; plan gentle, gradual changes in speed.


• Keep tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure for fuel-saving benefits.


• Use eco or normal driving modes if equipped, and minimize air resistance (remove roof racks when not in use).


• Maintain the vehicle: regular oil changes, clean air filters, and timely spark plug and fuel system maintenance.


• Lighten the load: remove unnecessary cargo to reduce weight and rolling resistance.

Following these tips can help you approach or even exceed typical EPA estimates in everyday driving scenarios.

Current status and availability

In the United States, the Chevy Spark is no longer sold new as GM shifted emphasis toward SUVs and crossovers. The Spark remains available in some international markets and used-car listings, where mileage and maintenance history will influence value and reliability. If you’re buying a used Spark, it’s wise to review its maintenance record and consider expected fuel economy in light of your driving patterns.

For shoppers interested in the same space and efficiency today, many current subcompact hatchbacks and some small crossovers offer similar or better highway mpg, along with newer technology and safety features. The Spark’s mileage remains competitive for its age and class, especially on highway trips where its light weight and efficient engine can shine.

Summary

Chevy Sparks generally deliver solid gas mileage for a subcompact city car, with typical combined fuel economy in the low-to-mid 30s mpg and highway mileage often near the 40 mpg mark depending on year and configuration. Real-world results vary with driving habits, maintenance, and conditions. While the Spark may not be sold new in the U.S. today, it remains a reference point for efficiency in a budget-conscious, city-focused vehicle. If mileage is a key criterion, compare exact EPA numbers for the model year you’re considering and weigh them against your daily driving needs.

Are Chevy sparks good for long distance driving?

It's easy to see that the Chevrolet Spark is a quirky little vehicle but also quite effective at cruising through the city or on fast trips to the grocery store. While it may not have the best long distance-friendly fuel tank, it helps get the most out of the 1.5-liter engine in the 2022 Spark.

Is Chevrolet Spark good on gas?

2022 Chevrolet Spark Fuel Economy
The estimated ratings for the manual transmission are 29 city mpg and 38 highway mpg. The reason for the difference is that the CVT manages lower power ratios in city traffic with less energy. In either case, these fuel ratings are quite strong.

What is the common problem with Chevrolet Spark?

Common Chevy Spark problems include transmission issues (slipping, delays, or noise), engine troubles (stalling, rough idling, or overheating), and electrical problems (like issues with the alarm, dashboard lights, or infotainment system). Other reported concerns involve AC system failures, particularly with the compressor, and steering issues, such as stiffness or noises.
 
This video explains common problems with the Chevy Spark: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Transmission

• Slipping gears and delays: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can sometimes slip or be slow to shift. 
• Unusual noises: Some owners report noises like humming, especially at certain RPMs. 
• Overheating: The transmission can overheat, particularly in hot weather or during long drives. 

Engine

• Stalling: The engine may stall, particularly when slowing down or stopping, often due to a faulty idle air control (IAC) valve or a dirty throttle body. 
• Rough idle and poor acceleration: Some owners report rough idling and a lack of power, especially at highway speeds. 
• Overheating: The engine can also overheat, which may be related to cooling fan performance. 

Electrical

• Faulty alarms: The car alarm may go off randomly while parked. 
• Dashboard and infotainment issues: Problems with dashboard lights or the infotainment system can occur, often due to faulty wiring or fuses. 
• Airbag problems: There have been recalls related to airbag performance and the car's compliance with safety regulations. 

This video discusses the issues with Chevy Spark's engine and airbags: 59sNotYourAverageEVYouTube · Dec 27, 2023
Other common problems

• AC system: The AC may not blow cold, frequently due to a faulty compressor or refrigerant leaks. 
• Steering: Stiffness or clicking noises can develop from the power steering system. 
• Brakes: Issues with the brakes, such as the ABS warning light coming on, have been reported. 

How many miles do you get out of a Chevy Spark?

A gasoline-powered Chevy Spark has a combined highway/city driving range of over 340 miles on a full tank, with a specific 2022 model getting 30 city MPG and 38 highway MPG. A Chevy Spark EV has a shorter range, with estimates from owners suggesting a range of around 70-80 miles on a full charge, though this can vary with factors like driving habits and battery health. 
Gasoline models

• Driving range: Over 340 miles on a full 9-gallon tank. 
• Fuel efficiency:
  • Manual: 29 city MPG, 38 highway MPG, 33 combined MPG. 
  • Automatic/CVT: 30 city MPG, 38 highway MPG, which is similar to the manual. 
• Factors that can affect range:
  • Driving habits 
  • Maintenance schedule 
  • Tire pressure and condition 
  • Exterior accessories like roof racks 

Electric models (Spark EV)

• Driving range: Typically around 70-80 miles on a full charge, though some owners report lower numbers or higher numbers depending on factors like driving style, weather, and battery age.
• Factors that can affect range:
  • Extreme temperatures, especially cold weather, can significantly decrease range due to heater use.
  • Using accessories like the air conditioner and cabin heater.
  • Your previous driving habits, as the car's estimated range can adapt over time.