Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl first view

General Motors has revealed the latest member of its European small car range. The Vauxhall version resurrects the Viva nameplate which was last used 35 years ago, while Opel has gone for Karl in honour of the son of the firm’s founder.

Think of the Agila-replacing Viva / Karl as a less stylish five-door alternative to the Adam. At 3.68 metres (12’ 1”) long the newcomer is about the same size as its more fashion-conscious sibling, but a boxier body should be more practical. Indeed, there’s room for three (albeit probably quite small) people in the back.

Vauxhall Viva (2015) Front Side

Standard equipment is set to include hill start assist, a reduced-effort ‘city’ mode for the steering and the IntelliLink infotainment system which integrates Apple iOS and Android devices. Among the available options will be cruise control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, lane departure warning and a sunroof.

Providing power is the innovative 1.0 litre Ecotec petrol engine that’s already offered with the Adam and updated Corsa. Developing 74 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS), this three-cylinder unit comes mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Sales of the Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl are due to begin next summer.

Opel Karl (2015) Rear SideVauxhall Viva (2015) Dashboard

Opel Karl (2015) Rear SeatsOpel Karl (2015) Front Side

Related posts:
2015 Corsa first view
Performance-orientated Adam S revealed
The quirky Adam Rocks

Images © General Motors.

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