Apparently GM doesn't like being the butt of jokes. (Have you seen the Spark's sales numbers??) So they've just dropped a bombshell: they're taking the fight to Micra and Mirage.
Source: http://media.gm.com/media/ca/en/gm/n...114_Spark.htmlChevrolet announced at the Montreal International Auto Show that the all-new 2016 Spark will start at just $9,995 plus freight – the lowest MSRP of any car in Canada, all while being packed with standard features.
Before this announcement, you would be forgiven for wondering why GM even bothered with Canada's subcompact segment. Just to re-cap...
Canadian sales...
Nissan Micra
Mitsubishi Mirage
Chevrolet Spark
2015
11,909 3361 1561 2014 7815 4048 1577
And this isn't just fresh lipstick on an old pig, either. The $9995 starting price comes attached to a completely redesigned Spark, with a bunch of features that Nissan & Mitsubishi don't have.
Big standard equipment differences from the Micra, just from a quick look at the base Spark:
- 10 airbags
- reverse camera
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- in-car Wi-Fi hotspot via OnStar
- 6-way adjustable driver's seat
- rear spoiler
The Spark's engine is a 1.4L with 98 hp. I dunno how much the new Spark weighs, but the old one was pretty portly and had even less power, giving it the worst power:weight ratio in our Micra comparison.
Like the Micra, you can't add A/C to the base Spark trim. So the big question is: how much for a Spark with automatic & A/C? Because that's what most people will probably buy.
The gloves are definitely off -- this is pretty unprecendented. In addition to the Mirage's perpetual manufacturer discount (which appeared to compete with the Micra), that makes THREE subcompacts available for under $10k + shipping.