Is the 2018 Chevy Spark an Electric Car Find Out Here

The 2018 Chevy Spark is not a fully electric car, but it does offer an efficient, eco-friendly gas-powered engine with impressive fuel economy for urban driving. While it lacks a plug-in or battery-electric version, its compact size and low emissions make it a practical, budget-friendly choice for eco-conscious commuters.

Key Takeaways

• The 2018 Chevy Spark is not electric: It runs on a 1.4L gasoline engine.
• No factory EV option: Chevy didn’t offer an electric version in 2018.
• Fuel efficiency is modest: Achieves 30–38 MPG, not class-leading.
• Affordable but not eco-friendly: Lower price tag, but higher emissions than EVs.
• Consider used EV alternatives: Older Nissan Leaf or Chevy Bolt may fit your budget.
• Verify trim specifics: Confirm engine details—no EV variants exist for this model year.

Is the 2018 Chevy Spark an Electric Car? Let’s Clear Up the Confusion

If you’re shopping for a compact, budget-friendly car and keep hearing about the 2018 Chevy Spark, you might be wondering: Is the 2018 Chevy Spark an electric car? It’s a fair question—especially when electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity and even small city cars are making the switch. The Spark has a futuristic look, a small footprint, and a price tag that makes it seem like it could be a contender in the EV world. But here’s the truth: the 2018 Chevy Spark is not an electric car. It’s powered by a gasoline engine, just like most cars from that era.

That said, the Spark’s story is more nuanced than a simple “gas vs. electric” label. GM, Chevy’s parent company, has experimented with electric versions of the Spark in the past. In fact, the Chevy Spark EV was a real model—just not in 2018. This mix-up is common, especially since the regular Spark and the Spark EV share a name and a similar design. So if you’re trying to decide whether the 2018 Spark fits your lifestyle, commute, or environmental goals, it helps to dig into the details. Let’s walk through what you need to know—no fluff, no hype, just the facts.

Understanding the 2018 Chevy Spark: A Gas-Powered City Car

Engine and Powertrain Basics

The 2018 Chevy Spark runs on a 1.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine. That’s the same engine used in previous model years, and it delivers 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. While that might not sound like much, it’s perfectly adequate for city driving. Think of it like a reliable bicycle with training wheels—it won’t win any races, but it gets you where you need to go, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

It comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel economy. The CVT adjusts seamlessly to engine speed, avoiding the “jerky” shifts you might feel in older automatics. This makes the Spark feel smooth around town, even when you’re accelerating from a stoplight. For example, if you’re navigating downtown Seattle during rush hour, the Spark’s compact size and responsive handling make it easy to weave through traffic and squeeze into tight parking spots.

Fuel Economy: Where the Spark Shines

One of the biggest perks of the 2018 Spark is its fuel efficiency. According to the EPA, it gets:

• 30 mpg in the city
• 38 mpg on the highway
• 33 mpg combined

For a car that costs under $15,000 new (at launch), those numbers are impressive. Compare that to larger sedans or SUVs, which often struggle to hit 25 mpg combined. If you drive 12,000 miles a year, mostly in the city, you’re looking at roughly 400 gallons of gas annually—far less than many competitors.

Let’s put that into real-world terms: say you commute 10 miles each way, five days a week. With gas at $3.50 per gallon, your weekly fuel cost would be about $23. That’s less than a dinner out—and far less than what you’d spend on an SUV or truck. For students, young professionals, or retirees on a tight budget, that savings adds up fast.

Why It Feels Like an Electric Car (Even Though It’s Not)

So why do so many people assume the 2018 Spark is electric? A few reasons:

• Compact size: At just 144 inches long, it’s one of the smallest cars on the road. That’s the same size category as EVs like the BMW i3 or Fiat 500e.
• Quiet interior: The Spark’s cabin is surprisingly hushed for a budget car, especially at city speeds. While it’s not silent like an EV, it’s much quieter than older subcompacts.
• Tech-forward features: It offers a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even available Wi-Fi hotspot—features you’d expect in pricier EVs.

These traits make the Spark feel modern, which sometimes tricks people into thinking it’s electric. But under the hood, it’s 100% gas-powered.

Chevy Spark EV vs. 2018 Spark: What’s the Difference?

The Spark EV: A Brief History

Here’s where things get interesting. Chevy did make an electric version of the Spark—just not in 2018. The Spark EV was available in select U.S. markets (mainly California and Oregon) from 2013 to 2016. It was GM’s first all-electric car for the U.S. market since the EV1 in the 1990s.

The Spark EV had a 14.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor producing 140 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque. Yes, you read that right—327 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than the gas Spark’s horsepower! Electric motors deliver instant torque, which made the Spark EV surprisingly zippy off the line. It could go from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 seconds—faster than the gas model.

Its EPA-estimated range was 82 miles, which was solid for 2013 but outdated by 2018 standards. For comparison, the 2018 Nissan Leaf offered 151 miles, and the 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV (a newer GM EV) delivered 238 miles.

Why the Spark EV Was Discontinued

Despite its perky performance, the Spark EV was phased out after 2016. Why? A few key reasons:

• Limited range: 82 miles wasn’t enough for most commuters, especially with rising EV range expectations.
• High price: Even with incentives, it cost over $25,000—more than double the gas Spark’s price.
• Low volume: It was only sold in ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) states, limiting its reach.
• GM’s pivot to the Bolt EV: In 2017, Chevy launched the Bolt EV, which had a longer range (238 miles), more space, and better tech. The Spark EV became obsolete.

So when the 2018 Spark arrived, it was back to gasoline—no EV option. If you’re shopping for a used Spark today, remember: the 2018 model is not electric. Only 2013–2016 models with “EV” in the name are electric.

How to Tell Them Apart

Spotting the difference between a gas Spark and a Spark EV is easier than you think:

• Badging: The EV has “EV” on the rear hatch and sometimes on the side.
• Charging port: The EV has a charging door on the front fender—no gas cap.
• Interior: The EV has a unique digital instrument cluster with battery range and charge level displays.
• Sound: The EV is nearly silent at low speeds (though it has a simulated “electric” hum for safety).

When test-driving, ask the seller or dealer to confirm the model year and powertrain. A quick VIN check can also reveal whether it’s an EV.

Performance and Driving Experience: What It’s Like Behind the Wheel

City Driving: A Joy, Not a Chore

The 2018 Spark is built for city life. Its small size makes parking a breeze. Parallel parking? No problem. Tight drive-thrus? Easy. Narrow alleyways? The Spark laughs at them. I remember driving one in Portland, Oregon, where I had to squeeze into a spot barely wider than the car. The Spark fit with inches to spare—my friend’s SUV wouldn’t have made it.

The steering is light and responsive, which helps with quick maneuvers. The suspension is tuned for comfort, not sportiness, so it soaks up potholes and speed bumps better than you’d expect for such a small car. The engine isn’t powerful, but in city traffic, you rarely need more than 30 mph. The CVT keeps the engine in the right rev range, so you don’t feel like you’re straining to keep up.

Highway Driving: Not Its Strongest Suit

On the highway, the Spark feels… adequate. It can maintain 70 mph, but passing slower vehicles requires planning. The engine has to work hard, and you’ll hear it revving. At highway speeds, wind noise and tire noise increase, making the cabin louder than in pricier cars.

The Spark doesn’t have adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist (those are rare in this class), so long drives can get tiring. If your commute is mostly highway-based, consider a slightly larger car like the Chevy Sonic or Honda Fit, which offer more space and better highway manners.

Handling and Safety: Better Than Expected

Despite its size, the Spark handles corners well. The low center of gravity (thanks to the battery placement in the floor, even in the gas model) helps it feel stable. It’s not a sports car, but it’s nimble and predictable.

Safety-wise, the 2018 Spark earned 4 out of 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests. It comes with standard features like:

• 10 airbags
• Stability control
• Anti-lock brakes
• Rearview camera (mandatory in 2018)

Available driver aids include forward collision warning and lane departure warning, but only on higher trims. For a car this size and price, the safety package is solid.

Interior, Features, and Tech: Surprising for a Budget Car

Interior Design and Space

Inside, the Spark feels more upscale than its price tag suggests. The dashboard is simple but clean, with a 7-inch touchscreen as the centerpiece. The seats are cloth (leather isn’t offered), but they’re supportive for short to medium trips. Rear seats are tight—fine for kids or occasional adults, but not for long drives.

Cargo space is limited: 11.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 27.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. That’s enough for a couple of suitcases or a week’s groceries. If you need more space, the Kia Rio or Mazda2 offer slightly more room.

Tech and Connectivity

The Spark’s tech package is a standout. Every trim includes:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (a rarity in 2018 budget cars)
• Bluetooth
• Aux and USB inputs
• Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

The touchscreen is intuitive and responds quickly to inputs. Pairing your phone takes seconds. The available Bose premium audio system (on the top LT trim) delivers surprisingly good sound for a small car.

One tip: if you buy a used 2018 Spark, check that the infotainment system is updated. Some early units had glitches that were fixed in later software updates.

Comfort and Daily Usability

The Spark’s cabin is quiet at city speeds, but road noise increases on highways. The climate control works well, and the seats are comfortable for daily commutes. One downside: no heated seats or steering wheel, even on the top trim. If you live in a cold climate, that could be a dealbreaker.

Fuel tank capacity is 9.2 gallons, which means you’ll be filling up every 300–350 miles. Not a big deal for city drivers, but something to consider if you take frequent road trips.

Ownership Costs, Reliability, and Long-Term Value

Reliability: What the Data Shows

The 2018 Spark has a solid reliability record. According to J.D. Power, it earned a 77 out of 100 for quality and reliability. Consumer Reports also rates it “average,” with no major recurring issues.

Common complaints include:

• Minor interior rattles over time
• Cruise control not available on base trims
• Rear seat comfort for taller passengers

No widespread engine or transmission problems have been reported. The 1.4L engine is a proven design, used in other GM vehicles like the Sonic and Trax.

Maintenance and Running Costs

The Spark is cheap to own. Average annual maintenance costs are around $400, according to RepairPal—well below the industry average. It uses regular unleaded fuel, and oil changes are recommended every 7,500 miles.

Insurance is also affordable, especially for young drivers. Its small size and safety features help keep premiums low. One caveat: tire replacements can be pricier than on larger cars, since the Spark uses low-profile tires.

Resale Value: Holding Up Better Than Expected

Subcompacts usually depreciate quickly, but the Spark holds value better than most. A 2018 Spark with average mileage (around 50,000–60,000 miles) still sells for $8,000–$10,000 on the used market. That’s a depreciation of about 30–40% over five years—better than the industry average of 50%.

Why? Its low cost of ownership, good fuel economy, and modern tech make it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. It’s a popular choice for ride-sharing drivers, college students, and urban commuters.

Data Table: 2018 Chevy Spark vs. Spark EV vs. Competitors

Model	Powertrain	Horsepower	Range/MPG	0-60 mph	MSRP (2018)
2018 Chevy Spark	1.4L Gasoline	98 hp	30/38/33 mpg	10.5 sec	$13,000–$18,000
2016 Chevy Spark EV	Electric (14.5 kWh)	140 hp	82 miles	7.2 sec	$25,000+
2018 Nissan Leaf	Electric (40 kWh)	147 hp	151 miles	7.5 sec	$30,000–$36,000
2018 Honda Fit	1.5L Gasoline	130 hp	33/40/36 mpg	8.5 sec	$16,000–$20,000
2018 Toyota Yaris	1.5L Gasoline	106 hp	30/35/32 mpg	9.8 sec	$15,000–$17,000

This table highlights a key takeaway: the 2018 Spark isn’t an EV, but it’s one of the most affordable new cars you can buy. If you want electric, the Spark EV (used) or the 2018 Leaf are better options—but they cost more upfront.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2018 Chevy Spark?

So, back to the original question: Is the 2018 Chevy Spark an electric car? The answer is clear—no. But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice. In fact, for the right buyer, it’s an excellent one.

If you:

• Drive mostly in the city
• Want low fuel and maintenance costs
• Need a car that’s easy to park and maneuver
• Appreciate modern tech (CarPlay, Wi-Fi, etc.) on a budget

—then the 2018 Spark is a smart pick. It’s not fast, not luxurious, and not electric. But it’s reliable, efficient, and surprisingly fun to drive for what it is.

On the flip side, if you:

• Need long highway commutes
• Want zero emissions and lower fuel costs
• Have a family or regularly carry adults in the back

—you might be better off with a used Spark EV, a 2018+ Leaf, or a slightly larger gas car like the Honda Fit.

Ultimately, the 2018 Spark proves that not every small car needs to be electric to be practical. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best car for you isn’t the flashiest or trendiest—it’s the one that fits your life, your budget, and your needs. And for many people, that car is the Spark. Just don’t expect it to plug in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Chevy Spark an electric car?

No, the 2018 Chevy Spark is not an electric car. It is a gasoline-powered subcompact hatchback equipped with a 1.4L 4-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower.

What type of fuel does the 2018 Chevy Spark use?

The 2018 Chevy Spark runs exclusively on unleaded gasoline. It does not offer an electric or hybrid powertrain option in this model year.

Was there an electric version of the 2018 Chevy Spark?

While Chevrolet previously offered an electric variant of the Spark (the Spark EV), it was discontinued after the 2016 model year. The 2018 Chevy Spark is only available with a gasoline engine.

How does the 2018 Chevy Spark compare to electric cars in efficiency?

The 2018 Chevy Spark achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, which is efficient for a gas-powered car but less so than electric vehicles, which offer zero tailpipe emissions and lower energy costs per mile.

Can the 2018 Chevy Spark be converted into an electric car?

While aftermarket electric conversion kits exist, converting the 2018 Chevy Spark to electric would require significant technical expertise, time, and expense. It’s generally more practical to purchase a factory-made electric vehicle.

What are the eco-friendly alternatives to the 2018 Chevy Spark?

If you’re seeking an electric car in a similar size class, consider the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan Leaf, or Hyundai Ioniq Electric. These offer true zero-emission driving with modern EV features and competitive range.