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BERMUDA | RSS PODCAST

Spark+ fires the imagination

One might question whether it is appropriate for a Chevy Spark owner to be test driving the latest model of the car.But the Chevy Spark + is anything but a standard Chevrolet.Its new design gives it a sleeker look and feel and at 0.7 inches smaller than a C-Class it also offers good value for money.There are a lot of new features to the newest version of the Spark including keyless entry, sliding and reclining front seats and adjustable steering wheel in addition to generous head and leg room which comes in handy particularly for the taller driver as I found out when taking it for a spin up to Spanish Point.Basic yet functional, the focus of the car is on ease of use and economy, and it is ideal in the small island environment where it corners well and takes hills effortlessly, as well as doing 20 kilometres to the litre.The power steering is another key factor as evidenced when trying to get out of a tight spot in the Rayclan car park and motoring around Bermuda’s small and winding roads.The one-litre 2011 model, which hit the Bermuda market in March, comes in five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission with a slick gear shift compared to its jerkier predecessor.Suited to everyone from an individual or professional couple to a small family, there is enough space in the back and room to spare in the boot for your beach gear or shopping.Another redeeming stand out is the speedometer in kilometres per hour and a rectangular digital display detailing fuel level, revolutions per minute, temperature, time and hazard warning lights.Other features at your fingertips include air conditioning and heating, and a radio and CD player tuned into an iPod adaptor, as well as roof rack rails, 14-inch alloy wheels, a cup holder in a floor console and a host of other cool accessories.One of my biggest gripes about the original version is the lack of electric windows in the back but in the new four-door model everything controlled at the touch of a button.The car also comes in every colour conceivable including Moroccan Blue, Misty Lake, Green Cocktail, Switchblade Silver, Lucious Kiss Pink and Coconut Champagne.For those looking for a no-frills practical car to get around in this could be the one for you, but for the moment I’m sticking with my Spark.Rating: 3 out of 5