Chevy’s 2017 Spark Activ mimics SUVs with rugged styling

By Stephen Edelstein Published November 14, 2016

2017 Chevrolet Spark Activ — Image used with permission by copyright holder

SUVs are more popular than ever, and automakers are all too happy to meet that demand. Sometimes that means turning a regular car into something approximating an SUV, even if that car is a tiny subcompact hatchback.

The 2017 Chevrolet Spark Activ really is just a regular car with some SUV-like styling cues, in the same vein as the Subaru Outback and XV Crosstrek or Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. But the Spark Activ, which debuts this week at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, applies the concept to a much smaller package.

Recommended Videos

The Activ isn’t any more off-road worthy than a regular Spark, but it does have what Chevy calls “trail-inspired accents.” These include extra plastic body cladding, rocker moldings, roof rails, round fog lights, and a 0.4-inch higher ride height. The Activ gets its own 15-inch wheel design and grille, too. The overall look is a bit more macho than the standard Spark, but no one will mistake the Activ for anything other than a hatchback with some extra jewelry.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

Read more: Ford’s tiny EcoSport will make its U.S. debut at the L.A. Auto Show

Chevy didn’t make any changes to the powertrain, meaning the Activ gets the same 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine used in other Spark models. Part of General Motors’ recently-revamped global family of Ecotec small engines, it produces 98 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque. That power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed manual or an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Like the standard Spark, the Activ gets a decent amount of tech features for a car of its size and price. Among the available features is Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system with 7.0-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot.

The 2017 Chevrolet Spark Activ goes on sale early next year. Pricing will start at $16,945 with the manual transmission, and $18,045 with the CVT (both prices include destination). The SUV-esque Spark Activ will be in good company at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show, which will be full of new SUVs. DT will be on the ground in the City of Angels to bring you the latest, so stay tuned.

Topics

Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

Cars

Faraday Future could unveil lowest-priced EV yet at CES 2025

Faraday Future FF 91

Given existing tariffs and what’s in store from the Trump administration, you’d be forgiven for thinking the global race toward lower electric vehicle (EV) prices will not reach U.S. shores in 2025.

After all, Chinese manufacturers, who sell the least expensive EVs globally, have shelved plans to enter the U.S. market after 100% tariffs were imposed on China-made EVs in September.

Cars

Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs. Tesla Model Y: Does electric SUV beat the bestselling EV?

Hyundai Ioniq 9 driving

The long-awaited Hyundai Ioniq 9 is finally on the way, after months of waiting for what many hope will be a true competitor to the Kia EV9. The electric SUV is likely to be one of the go-to options for those who want a larger EV at a lower price than the likes of the Rivian R1S. But, while it's larger than the Tesla Model Y, it's also likely to be a little more expensive.

The two vehicles are a bit different when it comes to things like performance, range, and charging. Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 worth the extra cash, or should you go for the cheaper, yet smaller car? We put the two head-to-head to find out.
Design
The overall designs of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Tesla Model Y are pretty different, and that may be enough to sway your buying decision. The Ioniq 9 is a true SUV; it's big and boxy, and while it looks a little sleeker than some SUVs thanks to its curved roofline, it's clearly larger than the Tesla Model Y. At the front of the Ioniq 9 is a long light bar separated into pixel-like blocks that helps give the vehicle a unique design motif. At the rear of the Ioniq 9, you'll also find pixel lights curving around the sides and top of the trunk. The Ioniq 9 measures 199.2 inches long, 78 inches wide, and 70.5 inches high.

Cars

Volvo EX90 vs Tesla Model Y: Is Tesla’s cheaper EV also better?

2025 Volvo EX90 front quarter view.

The Volvo EX90 is finally here. The all-electric Volvo SUV was first unveiled a few years ago, but after some delays, the sleek Scandinavian vehicle is now available for order. As an electric SUV, it will go up against the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9. However, it will also have to compete with the most popular electric vehicle out there: the Tesla Model Y.

There are some clear differences between the two vehicles. While the Volvo EX90 is noticeably larger, the Tesla Model Y is significantly cheaper. Should you spend the extra cash for Volvo’s electric SUV, or should you opt for the Tesla?
Design
Perhaps the most obvious difference between the two vehicles lies in their design. The EX90 is more of a traditional SUV, featuring a big, boxy build that’s larger than the arguably crossover-sized Tesla Model Y. Beyond basic dimensions, however, there are plenty of other design differences. For instance, the Volvo EX90 has a more traditional appearance compared to the Model Y, which, despite being on the market for some time, remains relatively unique when compared to vehicles from other manufacturers. That’s not to say the EX90 looks dated — on the contrary, it’s sleek and stylish, showcasing Volvo’s signature design.