Chevy's well-received Beat minicar concept is coming to life in the form of the five-door Chevrolet Spark, a new small car from GM.
The production Spark is reportedly 143.3 in. long and has a 93.5-in wheelbase (the Mini has a 97.1 in. wheelbase). When the Spark goes on sale in Europe, it will come with either a 1.0 or 1.2L 16-valve four-cylinder DOHC gasoline engine on board.
The wedge-like look of the Spark features Chevy's two-tier grille setup and strongly-creased wheel arches that can house up to 15-in. rims. The Spark's rear door handles are integrated into the upper part of the door in an effort to preserve the vehicle's rear-flank lines. Out back, there's an integrated tailgate spoiler and a new take on Chevrolet's trademark round taillight setup.
Despite its compact size, GM insists the Spark will have a spacious cabin with interior noise levels on par with larger vehicles. The cabin is highlighted by the Spark's motorcycle-themed, steering wheel mounted instrument cluster and dual cockpit layout.
Spark is expected to arrive in European dealerships early 2010, followed by other regions including the U.S. reportedly sometime in 2011. Expect a bigger engine for the U.S. market Spark, most likely GM's 1.4L four cylinder engine.
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