Does the Spark have a turbo?

The short answer: not in the mainstream U.S. market—the Spark has not been offered with a factory turbocharged engine there. In a few international markets, limited turbo variants appeared in certain model years, but they are not part of the global, current Spark lineup. As of 2025, GM’s emphasis on the Spark has waned in several regions, and turbo-equipped Spark models are not common.

Turbo availability by market

Turbo variants did exist only in limited regional runs and not as a standard feature on the global Spark. The following is a broad overview of what has been seen historically and what to expect today.

• North America (United States and Canada): No factory turbo Spark option in the mainstream lineup; engines are naturally aspirated.


• Europe and some other markets: In certain model years, local dealers offered turbocharged small-displacement options branded as Spark Turbo or Spark with a turbo engine; availability and specifications varied by country and year.


• Regional special editions: A few markets released limited-run variants carrying turbo branding; these were not part of the standard Spark lineup and are rarely available today.

Because turbo versions were not widely standardized across the global Spark lineup, the exact engine, power, and availability depend on the country and model year. Always check the local dealer brochure or VIN/spec sheet for confirmation.

Engine options by generation

First generation Spark (approx. 2010–2015)

Across the early Spark generations, Chevrolet focused on small, efficient naturally aspirated engines. Turbocharged variants were not part of the standard global offering for the first-generation Spark.

Second generation Spark (approx. 2015–2021/22)

The second-generation Spark continued to rely on small-displacement naturally aspirated engines in the main markets. In a few regions, a turbocharged option appeared in limited editions or regional trims, but there was no universal turbo across all markets.

Current status (as of 2025)

GM's focus for the Spark has diminished in several regions as the brand shifted toward SUVs and crossovers. There is no widely available turbo-equipped Spark in the major markets that still run Spark sales. If you see a Spark advertised with turbo power today, it is either a regional variant with a specific market configuration or an aftermarket modification.

How to verify if your Spark has turbo

To confirm whether a specific Spark model is turbocharged, check the following indicators. This is especially important in markets where turbo variants existed in limited runs.

• Badging: Look for a Turbo badge on the rear hatch, fenders, or grille, or a model name such as Spark Turbo/GT in the logo area.


• Engine cover or under-hood labeling: A turbo engine will typically display "Turbo" or "T" on the engine cover or intake manifold.


• VIN and window sticker: The original Monroney or window sticker lists the engine code and horsepower; the VIN decode (or GM's official spec) can confirm turbo configuration.


• Performance cues: If the car feels peppy at low-to-mid speeds and has characteristic turbo whistle or boost control, this might indicate turbo; however, visual confirmation via official specs is essential.

If you’re considering a purchase, consult the dealer’s brochure or GM’s official regional specifications for the exact engine configuration for that vehicle’s year and market.

Summary

Turbo availability for the Spark is not universal. In the United States and Canada, there has not been a factory turbo option in the mainstream Spark lineup. In a few international markets, limited turbo variants were offered in certain years, but these were not part of a global, current standard. For any given Spark, verify the engine configuration with local dealer documentation and regional specs to determine whether a turbo exists.

What engine does the Chevy Spark have?

1.4-liter four-cylinder engine
2022 Chevrolet Spark Engine
All 2022 Spark models come standard with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. The base model has a front-wheel-drive system and a five-speed manual transmission.

Does a Chevy Spark have a turbo?

No, the standard Chevrolet Spark does not have a turbocharger; its engine is naturally aspirated. The Spark is powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower. While some sources mention a 1.4L turbocharged engine, this was not the engine for the production model sold in the United States and was likely a confusion with other GM models.
 

• Engine: The standard engine is a naturally aspirated 1.4-liter Ecotec 4-cylinder. 
• Horsepower: It produces 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. 
• Transmission: A five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available. 
• Confusion with other models: It's possible some confusion has been caused by other GM models that do have a turbocharged engine, such as the now-discontinued Sonic. 
• Aftermarket modifications: Some owners may have added aftermarket turbo kits to their Sparks, but the factory-produced model is not turbocharged. 

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 will a Chevy Spark last?

What is Chevrolet Spark lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Chevrolet Spark is 183,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Factors such as ULEZ compliance and BHP are major when looking into a vehicle's lifespan/life expectancy.