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2016 Chevrolet Spark lights up New York

The little Spark has been somewhat of a surprising entry in the modern Chevy lineup in the US. Given its diminutive stature, you might have expected the slightly larger Sonic to cannibalize the tiny sibling's sales, but that hasn't happened. The Bowtie moved 39,159 Sparks in the US in 2014, a 14.7 percent boost from the previous year. Now at the 2015 New York Auto Show, the latest generation is being unveiled with a new engine and much improved styling. Replacing the current 1.2-liter four-cylinder is an all-aluminum 1.4-liter unit making 98 horsepower. That still doesn't sound like much, but it's 16 percent more than the 2015 Spark. The new mill can be connected to either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission with which Chevy estimates 40 miles per gallon highway fuel economy. The 2016 Spark also gets a longer wheelbase and 1.6-inch lower overall height. Combined with more elliptical headlights at the front, the changes make for a somewhat more sleek appearance than the current, boxy model. The platform underneath is more rigid as well, and Chevy claims the latest underpinnings mean better handling and lower NHV levels inside. The little hatch isn't growing up too much, though, and gets a trio of new colors that sound like jellybean flavors: Toasted Marshmallow, Kalamata and Splash. Chevy is packing the interior with better quality materials and improved tech. Chevy's latest seven-inch MyLink system sits in the center stack with a capacitive touchscreen, and it now comes with a physical volume control and other buttons for easier use. All models also get a rearview camera, and a LCD instrument cluster remains in front of the driver. The available suite of safety systems includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Spot Alert. The 2016 Spark goes on sale in the US in the fourth quarter of 2015 and is produced in South Korea. Expect a gallery showing off all its new styling from the New York show floor soon.

Chevy Bolt will go into production in Michigan in 2016 [UPDATE]

While nothing official has been announced, it appears that General Motors may actually put the all-electric Chevy Bolt into production next year. That's the rumor that Reuters is reporting, citing two sources at suppliers for the upcoming $30,000 EV (although that $30,000 number bears some scrutiny). This rumor does fit in with earlier comments that the Bolt would arrive on the market in 2017. If it gets built, the Bolt will share more than a similar-sounding name with the Chevy Volt: the EV will be put together in metro Detroit. Reuters says the 200-mile electric car (and an Opel version) will be made in "an underused small-car plant north of Detroit," which means the Orion Township plant. GM could make between 25,000 and 30,000 Bolts a year there, if what the suppliers are saying is true. We have asked GM for a statement on this story and will update it if we hear back. UPDATE: General Motors manager of electrification technology communications, Kevin Kelly, told AutoblogGreen that, "Bolt EV Concept is just that – a concept. We're currently evaluating the vehicle program, but do not have any production announcements to make at this time."

Chevy Colorado gets Midnight, Trail Boss editions

After introducing a gamut of special editions for the full-size Silverado, Chevrolet is offering a pair of new packages for its midsize Colorado. Following in the Silverado's footsteps, the Colorado Midnight Edition just blacks out all the things. There's a black grille, black Bowtie, and exclusive 18-inch wheels. They happen to be black, as well. In terms of functional changes, the Midnight Edition adds a spray-in bedliner, tonneau cover, and unique sill plates. Potential owners won't be limited on engine options and body styles here, as the blacked-out trim can be added to extended and crew cab bodies, in two- or four-wheel drive models, and with all of the pickup's available engines, including the upcoming Duramax diesel. The only limiting factor is the actual trim level – you'll need to settle for the mid-grade LT. Don't worry, though. The heftier, top-of-the-line Z71 will be offered with its own unique package, called the Trail Boss. As expected, it goes big on off-road character, with LED trail lighting and aggressive Goodyear Wrangler DuraTec tires. There are also black 17-inch wheels, newly flared fenders, side steps, and like the Midnight Edition, a blacked-out grille and spray-in bedliner. Also like the Midnight Edition, the only limit to adding the Trail Boss is that you opt for the Z71 trim. Engines, drivetrains, and body styles are not fixed. Look for both trucks at your local Chevrolet dealer this fall. Until then, scroll down for the official press release. 2016 Chevy Colorado Special Models Dressed to Impress Midnight Edition, Z71 Trail Boss complement capability with customized style 2015-08-03 DETROIT – On the street or on the trail, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado's Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss bring bolder choices to customers looking to make a visual statement with their truck. The special editions roll into Chevrolet dealerships this fall, with distinctly tailored appearances that blend custom design cues with Colorado's popular options and accessories. The Midnight Edition evokes the aesthetic of an urban tuner vehicle, while the Z71 Trail Boss is designed for terrain where the pavement ends. "These are aggressive editions of one of the country's hottest-selling truck, demonstrating the personalization that's possible with Chevrolet accessories, whether it's for the street, trail or both," said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager.