The all-new Chevrolet Spark is undergoing a major transformation, shifting from a gasoline-powered hatchback to an electric compact SUV. Expected to launch soon in the UAE, it first debuted in Brazil at the end of January this year.
Reports confirm that the new Spark is actually the Baojun Yep Plus, a product of the joint venture between General Motors and SAIC. However, outside China, it carries the Chevrolet badge and has been renamed the Spark. Upon its arrival in the UAE, it may undergo further modifications to fit global markets.
This isn’t Chevrolet’s first time rebadging a Baojun model. Previously, the Baojun 510 was introduced in the Middle East as the Chevrolet Groove.
In this article, we’ll explore the Spark’s design, interior features, powertrain, and expected price. Read on for all the details!
Exterior: Off-Road-Inspired Design
The all-new Chevrolet Spark features sharp lines and a boxy silhouette, giving it a rugged off-road appeal. With 150mm of ground clearance, an off-road-styled front bumper, and a side-opening tailgate, its design is reminiscent of iconic models like the Ford Bronco.
Despite its adventurous look, the Spark is compact. It measures 3,996mm in length, 1,760mm in width, and 1,726mm in height, with a 2,560mm wheelbase. The rear seat space is somewhat limited, making it more suited for short trips. However, its five-door layout ensures easy access to the back seats.
Interior: Modern and Feature-Packed
Although Chevrolet hasn’t fully revealed the new Spark’s interior, it is expected to follow the Baojun Yep Plus’s design, featuring:
A three-spoke multifunction steering wheel
An 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster
A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and a reverse camera
The cabin is built with eco-friendly, odorless materials, covering key touchpoints like the dashboard, door armrests, and seats, enhancing both quality and comfort.
For added convenience, the seats feature thick memory foam padding with independent headrests. The driver’s seat offers six-way power adjustment, while the passenger seat allows for four-way manual adjustment.
Powertrain: Ideal for Urban and Short Trips
The new Spark is expected to share the same powertrain as the Baojun Yep Plus, including:
A front-mounted single motor producing 75 kW (102 hp) and 180 Nm of torque
A 41.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery
A 401 km driving range (CLTC-rated)
Charging options include:
Fast charging: 30% to 80% in 35 minutes
Slow charging: Full charge in 6 hours
Additionally, the Spark comes with an external power supply function, providing a 3.3 kW output, which can be useful for powering small appliances.
Price Prediction
Based on the pricing of the Baojun Yep Plus in China, the Chevrolet Spark is expected to launch in the UAE at an estimated 50,000 AED.
Conclusion
Baojun, a sub-brand of SAIC-GM, follows a badge-engineering strategy, adapting models for different global markets. By rebranding Baojun vehicles under the Chevrolet name, the company strengthens its presence in markets like the Middle East and South America, where Chevrolet has strong brand recognition.
As for the final price and market response, we’ll continue to track the Spark’s UAE debut and provide updates. Stay tuned!
Senior Writer The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
