What kind of engine is in a Chevy Spark?
The Chevy Spark typically uses a small gasoline inline-4 engine, most commonly around 1.2 liters in the United States, with smaller or larger options available in other markets.
Engine options by generation and market
Across its production run, the Spark used a range of small-displacement gasoline engines. The most common configuration in North America is a compact 1.2-liter inline-4, while some international markets offered 1.0-liter inline-3 or 1.4-liter inline-4 variants.
North American market engines
In the U.S. and Canada, the Spark has predominantly been equipped with a small 1.2-liter inline-4 gasoline engine. This engine is designed for efficiency and urban use, and it has been paired with both manual and automatic transmissions depending on the model year and trim level. Power output is modest, aimed at city-friendly performance rather than high-speed acceleration.
- 1.2-liter inline-4 gasoline engine (most common in North American Spark models).
Note: Some export or older models in other regions used variations within the same family of small gasoline engines, but the 1.2L I-4 remains the standard for North American Spark units.
Global market engines
Around the world, the Spark has also been offered with alternative small-displacement engines to suit local emissions and fuel economy standards. These options generally include lighter three-cylinder configurations and occasionally larger four-cylinder variants in select markets.
- 1.0-liter inline-3 gasoline engine (used in certain international markets).
- 1.2-liter inline-4 gasoline engine (also found in many global Spark models).
- 1.4-liter inline-4 gasoline engine (available in some export configurations for higher output).
Engine output, emissions tuning, and available transmissions vary by year, market, and trim level, so exact specifications should be checked for a specific model and production year.
Summary
Across its history, the Chevy Spark has relied on small, efficient gasoline engines. The most common powerplant in North America is a 1.2-liter inline-4, with other markets receiving 1.0-liter or 1.4-liter variants as appropriate. Transmission options typically included manual and automatic choices, selected to balance economy and everyday driving needs.
Conclusion
For anyone evaluating a Spark, the key takeaway is that it is powered by one of several compact gasoline engines designed for urban use, with the 1.2L I-4 being the staple in many regions and smaller or larger displacement options available elsewhere. Always verify the exact engine specification for the specific year and market of the vehicle in question.
