Home FAQ

Does a 2018 Chevy Spark have a CVT transmission?

The 2018 Chevy Spark does not use a CVT; it was offered with a traditional 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, depending on trim and market. This article explains the available options and what they mean for buyers and owners.

Transmission options in the 2018 Spark

Below are the two gearbox choices you could find on the 2018 Spark, along with typical availability by trim.

5-speed manual transmission (standard on most trims)

4-speed automatic transmission (available on select trims)

In summary, the 2018 Spark did not offer a CVT. The two options were manual and a traditional automatic, neither of which used a belt-driven CVT. Buyers looking for a continuously variable transmission would need to consider a different model.

Why no CVT in the Spark

Chevrolet’s small-car platform and market positioning for the Spark favored lightweight, simple transmissions that kept costs down and reliability high in urban driving conditions. CVTs were not standard in the Spark's development cycle, and the automatic option was a conventional 4-speed unit designed to balance efficiency and durability for city use.

Key specs and performance notes

Typical performance figures for the 2018 Spark include a 1.4-liter engine producing around 98 horsepower, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Fuel economy varies by transmission and trim, but both were aimed at city driving rather than highway efficiency.

What to check when shopping used 2018 Spark

When evaluating a used 2018 Spark, verify the transmission type at purchase time, as it affects driving feel, maintenance costs, and warranty status. If you want minimum maintenance, the manual offers more control and fewer moving parts whereas the automatic is easier in stop-and-go traffic but can incur transmission service needs if not maintained.

Summary

The 2018 Chevy Spark does not have a CVT. Its transmission options are a 5-speed manual and a conventional 4-speed automatic, depending on trim. This aligns with Chevrolet’s small-car strategy for urban efficiency and reliability.

Summary: No CVT in the 2018 Spark; choose between manual or traditional automatic depending on preferred driving feel and usage. For most city drivers, either option suffices, with manual offering control and automatic offering convenience.

Does the Chevy Spark have a CVT transmission?

Every Spark has a feeble four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through either a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

What Chevy cars have no CVT transmission?

Chevrolet: The Bolt, Camaro, Corvette, Cruze, Impala, Sonic, Volt, Blazer, Equinox, Tahoe, Suburban, Trailblazer, Traverse, Trax, Colorado and all Silverados are not equipped with CVTs. Chrysler: No modern Chrysler is equipped with a CVT.

Is the Chevrolet Spark 2018 a good car?

The 2018 Chevy Spark is a good car for city driving, known for being reliable, fuel-efficient, and easy to park. However, its small size and 98-horsepower engine make it feel underpowered on the highway, and its ride can be rough on large bumps. It is a practical and affordable option if your primary use is commuting and running errands in town.

Pros

Reliability: It has a good reliability rating and no recalls, making it a dependable choice for many owners.
Fuel efficiency: It gets great gas mileage, especially on the highway, and is economical to run.
City maneuverability: Its small size and nimble handling make it easy to navigate tight city streets and park in small spaces.
Infotainment: It includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Affordability: The Spark is an inexpensive car that provides good value, especially for its target use case.

Cons

Highway performance: The 98-horsepower engine can struggle to accelerate and maintain speed on the highway, especially with multiple passengers.
Ride quality: The ride can be uncomfortable and choppy over large imperfections.
Cabin noise: There is a significant amount of road and engine noise, particularly at highway speeds.
Space: The rear seating is cramped, and it may not be suitable for larger adults or long road trips.

Who is it good for?

City dwellers: The Spark is an excellent choice for drivers who spend most of their time in urban areas.
Budget-conscious buyers: It's a practical and affordable option for those looking for low-cost transportation.
First-time car owners: Its ease of use and low entry price can make it a good option for new drivers.

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.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.