2013 CHEVROLET SPARK STARTS AT $12,200US

By Jennifer Geiger, Cars.com - Although it's been on sale overseas since 2008, GM's tiny Spark will hit U.S. dealerships later this year with a less-than-tiny base price. Chevrolet's new-for-2013 Spark will start at $12,200. It may sound like a bargain, but Chevy's bigger Sonic starts only slightly higher at $13,865US, though the Spark has standard power windows and the Sonic doesn't.

The subcompact four-door hatchback slots below the Sonic in Chevy's lineup. Power comes from a small 85-horsepower, 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual is standard; a four-speed automatic is available for $925US, Chevy says.

Three trim levels will be offered: base LS, 1LT and 2LT.

Full pricing from Chevy is below:

Spark LS starts at $12,200US and includes:

• Standard 1.2-liter Ecotec engine and five-speed manual transmission


• Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, rear window wiper, auxiliary input jack, outside temperature display and trip computer


• 15-inch alloy wheels


• 60/40-split folding rear seat


• Comprehensive safety package including 10 airbags, electronic stability control with traction control and brake assist


• OnStar Directions & Connections plan standard with six-month introductory subscription

Spark 1LT starts at $13,700US and adds:

• Standard 7-inch color touch-screen radio with Chevrolet MyLink, Bluetooth connectivity for select phones, steering-wheel audio controls, USB port and Sirius XM Radio with three-month trial subscription


• Other standard convenience features include power door locks with keyless entry, theft deterrent system, outside power mirrors, floormats, visor mirrors and cruise control.

Spark 2LT starts at $15,000US and adds:

• Unique 15-inch alloy wheels


• Fog lamps


• Exterior appearance enhancements including silver painted roof rails; chrome liftgate handle, exhaust outlet and belt line molding; body-colored lower rocker molding; front and rear body-colored sport fascias with unique front upper and lower grille inserts


• Leatherette seats, heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel

All prices exclude a $795US destination fee. Five colors will be available: Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink.