What is the ground clearance of the Chevy Spark?
The ground clearance of the Chevy Spark is typically around 6 inches (about 152 mm), though it can vary by model year, market, and tire/wheel configuration.
For anyone shopping for a Spark or simply curious about its capability on city streets and speed bumps, this article explains the typical clearance, how it can differ across generations and regions, and how to verify the exact measurement for a specific vehicle.
Ground clearance across Spark generations and markets
The following figures reflect commonly published specifications and user observations. Exact numbers depend on year, market, trim, and the tire/wheel package installed.
- Typical range across most Spark configurations is approximately 5.7 to 6.2 inches (145 to 158 mm).
- Some markets or trims equipped with taller tires or specific suspension tuning may approach about 6.3 to 6.6 inches (160 to 168 mm).
- Very early or region-specific variants might fall slightly below 5.7 inches or rise toward the upper end of the range depending on packaging.
In practice, most Spark models sit near the 6-inch mark, with modest variations driven by tires, wheels, and suspension setup.
What influences ground clearance?
Key contributing factors
Several design and operating factors determine the precise clearance for a given Spark. The main ones are:
- Tire diameter and profile: Taller tires can slightly raise the chassis; shorter profiles can reduce clearance.
- Suspension setup: Different trims or market specifications may use varying springs and dampers that alter ride height.
- Vehicle load and dynamic stance: Passengers, cargo, and driving conditions can momentarily shift clearance during acceleration or braking.
- Manufacturing tolerances and wear: Small differences between units and aging components can yield minor variations.
Because of these factors, the exact clearance for a specific Spark should be taken from the official spec for that year and trim, or verified by direct measurement on the vehicle.
How to verify the exact ground clearance for your Spark
Measurement approach
To confirm your particular Spark’s ground clearance, use this step-by-step approach tailored to the exact model year and wheel/tire setup.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the official specification sheet for your exact year and market to find the published clearance figure.
- Park on a level surface with the tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Use a straightedge or a rigid ruler to measure from the lowest point of the underbody (often near the center) to the ground, with the car resting undisturbed and on the tire’s centerline.
- Take measurements at multiple points if your Spark has asymmetrical underbody features or if there is a known variation between left and right sides.
- Compare your measured value to the published spec for your exact trim and wheel/tire configuration. If there is a meaningful discrepancy, re-check tire size and inspect suspension components for wear or modification.
Following these steps will yield the precise ground clearance for your vehicle, which is especially useful when evaluating driveways, speed bumps, and rough roads.
Bottom line
For most Chevy Spark models, ground clearance centers around 6 inches, with a typical published range of roughly 5.7 to 6.6 inches depending on year, market, and wheel/tire choices. Always verify the exact figure for your specific year and trim using the official documentation or a direct measurement on the vehicle.
Summary: The Chevy Spark generally sits about 6 inches off the ground, though exact numbers vary by year, market, and wheel-tire setup. To know your precise clearance, consult the model’s official specs and, if needed, measure on the vehicle using level ground and appropriate tools.
