Chevy’s new 2016 Spark city car is faster, stronger, and more efficient

It's been a banner year for Chevrolet's green fleet. So far the automaker has unveiled a brand new <a href="http://inhabitat.com/chevrolet-announces-2016-volt-specs-at-the-detroit-auto-show/">Volt</a>, the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/chevrolet-unveils-30k-bolt-electric-car-with-a-200-mile-range-photos/">Bolt EV</a>, and the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/chevrolet-unveils-2016-malibu-hybrid-at-the-new-york-auto-show/">Malibu Hybrid</a> - but electrified vehicles aren't the only way to go green. Tiny, lightweight city cars can be just as efficient as <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/hybrid/">hybrids</a> - and Chevy's <a href="http://www.chevrolet.com/2016-spark.html">2016 Spark</a> offers more power, better fuel efficiency, and a more refined body that can still fit into practically any parking spot on the street.

Chevrolet's 2016 Spark improves upon its predecessor in every way.

Its lean body flexes with more defined curves, and Chevy toned down the Spark's wild-eyed headlights for a more elegant look.

The automaker also lengthened the Spark's wheelbase and dropped the roof 1.6 inches to help improve fuel efficiency.

The interior of the spark has been completely redone with more comfortable, higher-quality materials, the exterior is available in new colors (like Toasted Marshmallow, Kalamata, and Splash), and Chevrolet is offering an extensive array of personalization options.

The Spark is targeted at first time car buyers and new Chevrolet owners with an inexpensive price point, and it will launch in 40 different markets around the world in the 4th quarter of 2015.

Pop open the hood and you'll find a new 1.4 liter four-cylinder Ecotec engine that produces 17% more horsepower (98 hp vs 82 hp).

The 2016 Spark will get 40 MPG on the freeway with its continuously variable automatic transmission, and a five-speed manual transmission will be offered as well.

2016 Chevrolet Spark

Don't hold your breath for a 2016 Spark electric vehicle though - Chevy's new 200-mile Bolt electric car is expected usurp the Spark EV's place.

The Spark now comes packed with Chevy's state of the art safety technology - including blind spot alert, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and a backup camera.

The updated Spark was revealed at this year's New York Auto Show.

2016 Chevrolet Spark

2016 Chevrolet Spark