Bargains are a must in the subcompact sedan segment. But as economy cars receive trickle-down features from larger manufacturer offerings, the low prices are much easier to live with. The 2022 Chevrolet Spark is lauded as one of the best fun-size commuters. Unfortunately, it was discontinued last year, but plenty of likable models are on sale.

The Spark has many hallmarks of a competent car with agility, excellent fuel economy, and nifty styling. U.S. News also thinks Chevrolet’s smallest sedan is a suitable choice, and here are three reasons why.

Reason #1: Intuitive infotainment system

The 2022 Chevrolet Spark’s infotainment system isn’t a fiddly, antiquated unit. Although simple, it excels with an intuitive layout and seamless smartphone integration capabilities. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, the seven-inch touchscreen in the base LS has what most need on the road.

Unlike many other vehicles made today, the Spark still has user-friendly physical knobs and buttons. Controls that are easy to adjust don’t just provide a less-than-annoying driving experience but a safer one.

Reason #2: Easy to maneuver in traffic

The Spark isn’t fast, with a pint-size 1.4-liter four-cylinder putting down 98 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque. However, it is quick in traffic. The 2022 Chevrolet Spark will zip around a crowded city with ease. Moreover, nimble steering and a tight turning radius make parallel parking a breeze.

A continuously variable automatic transmission is available in the Spark. That’s a welcome feature for those who don’t want to worry about rowing their own gears. Yet, some with five-speed manuals can be had to make the drive more engaging.

Reason #3: Low base price

The entry-level Spark LS has a $14,595 starting MSRP, Edmunds says. That makes the 2022 Chevrolet Spark the cheapest model money can buy for that year. For whom monthly car note payments are the top priority, there’s nothing better than the Spark.

As mentioned before, the base LS features a pleasant suite of tech and entertainment features. Even the range-topping 2LT is thousands below the essential subcompact benchmark of $20,000.

Is the 2022 Chevrolet Spark worth it?

While the 2022 Chevrolet Spark has many high points, the news isn’t all good. The Spark will navigate city traffic well, but the subcompact will show its lackluster performance for those outside downtown areas. Drivers will think twice before passing on the highway when the accelerator causes more noise than speed.

Manufacturers often compete on which model has the best stand safety and driver assistance features. The Spark, however, wades into that battle with damp powder. The only driver assistance feature on the base LS is a rearview camera. Automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning are only available on the most expensive trim level.

Another issue is that although other four-door subcompacts seat five, the Spark only seats four. While children can sit in the rear row without an issue, adults will find it a struggle.  

Regardless, there’s little that can beat that low price. For some looking for their first new car, that’s the best prospect.