Chevrolet set to debut GogoLink navigation on Spark and Sonic rides (video)

Cruising around town in a gas-saving Chevrolet Sonic? Or perhaps you've got your name written all over the 2013 Spark's waiting list? Well, GM has some good news to share. Starting in the fall, those of you with a MyLink system on either of these rides will be able to add GogoLink navigation for around $50. The service's features include live traffic, emergency info, 3D maps, Google local search and native maps storage on smartphones to use for turn-by-turn directions when you can't get a signal. GM's saying that since GogoLink won't be out until the Spark's electrifying release, you'll have to make a quick pit stop by the dealer to get the app installed on your 7-inch infotainment slab. What's a few extra bucks to save you from getting lost, right?

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Chevrolet Spark, Sonic Get a New App for Maps

Segment-exclusive MyLink system adds GogoLink navigation via owners' smartphones

NEW YORK – Its in-your-face colors already make the 2013 Chevrolet Spark hard to lose in a crowd. Now it will be even harder to get lost while driving the Spark and the Sonic, thanks to available GogoLink.

GogoLink is an embedded smartphone application that delivers full-function navigation – including live traffic updates – through the vehicles' MyLink infotainment system. It was introduced today and is expected to be available in the fall. Consumers can test-drive GogoLink for themselves at a special kiosk in the Chevrolet exhibit the New York International Auto Show.

"For less than $50, GogoLink gives Spark and Sonic customers cloud-based navigation and live traffic alerts projected on the vehicle's seven-inch, high-resolution touch screen," said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet marketing director for small cars.

About 90 percent of expected Spark and Sonic buyers own smartphones, Landy said. "This technology is typically found on cars costing far more, but next-gen customers are accustomed to being connected. By using a smartphone app, Chevrolet found a smart and safe way to provide navigation."

GogoLink navigation includes:

Emergency information such as police, fire and the nearest hospital
Thousands of points of interest
Local Search via Google
Where am I? locator
Live traffic functionality provides crash reports and lane closures, and with alternative routes
3-D maps
Ability to store native maps to the customer's smartphone, giving them access to locations and turn-by-turn directions even when phone signal quality is poor. Many GPS-enabled apps do not do this.

Because GogoLink navigation will become available after Spark goes on sale, the first Spark models sold will require a simple update at the dealer to accommodate the app.

MyLink is standard on 1LT and 2LT versions of the Spark, as well as the Sonic LTZ and upcoming Sonic RS model. MyLink is available on Sonic LS and LT models. On Spark and Sonic, MyLink operates by integrating the owner's compatible smartphone and stored media – via Bluetooth, plug-in outlet or USB – with the radio. This lets owners enjoy simple, safe and personalized connectivity while their smartphone is safely stowed.

MyLink is simple to use: The owner selects from options projected onto the touch screen: Audio, Pictures & Movies, Telephone, Smartphone Link and Settings. Each menu selection takes the user though a list of easy-to-select functions.

MyLink-equipped Spark and Sonic models will launch with two apps: Pandora internet radio and Stitcher Smart Radio. When owners with these services connect their compatible smartphones via Bluetooth or by plugging in, they can access these and other functions:

Personal playlists of stored music
Hands-free calling with Bluetooth-enabled voice activation from the customer's smartphone when the steering wheel button is depressed. (Visit gm.com/Bluetooth for a list of compatible smartphones)
Ability to project video via USB while the vehicle is parked
Ability to project a photo album in "slideshow" mode via USB while the vehicle is parked, with the last music selection playing in the background. Once the vehicle is moving, a single photo is viewable.

A four-passenger, five-door hatchback, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark goes on sale this summer, the smallest entry in the Chevrolet passenger car lineup. Though compact, Spark offers more passenger and cargo room than other mini cars such as the Fiat 500, Smartfortwo and the Scion iQ. Equipped with the 1.2L four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission, Spark is expected to offer very competitive fuel economy.

In addition to MyLink, Spark is equipped with 10 standard air bags, standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control, and is the only car in its segment with a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and the safety and security of OnStar.

The performance-oriented 2013 Sonic RS will be available in the fourth quarter of this year. A five-door hatch, it's the only model in its segment to offer a turbocharged engine – a 138-horsepower (103 kW) Ecotec 1.4L. Other performance attributes include a sport-tuned suspension and unique exterior and interior treatments. All other Sonic models are on sale.

Chevrolet MyLink functionality varies by model. MyLink on Sonic and Spark RS does not include integrated voice recognition or Gracenotes capability.