Specs and information for the all-new Vauxhall Viva have been revealed with the marque set for an exciting second-coming later this year.
The original Viva was one of the UK’s best-selling vehicles running from 1963-1979 it became an icon of British motoring with all of the vehicles built in the historic Ellesemore Port plant in Liverpool. It is unarguably the vehicle that allowed Vauxhall to establish itself and the manufacturer – now one of the UK’s best selling – will hope the Viva will once again uncover more profits.
The Viva has been whipping up quite a frenzy since it was handed an official reveal at the Geneva Motor Show back in March so we thought it appropriate to cover everything we know about the latest addition to the Vauxhall family.
The Vauxhall Viva’s remit is to tackle the increasingly competitive city car market where industry leaders include the sharp, sprightly Aygo and unique Skoda Citigo. The famous Viva name will only carry it so far, the competition will be won in the statistics department with all vehicles boasting a redeemign appearance. Bold styling is certainly the order of the day for the Viva which has a chracterizing design outlined by sweptback headlights and a fearsome single-bar grille with a sleek, agile bodytype.
There will only be one engine at first, though you’ll be able to uniquely tailor and specify this by upgrading your trim to SE or SL. The standard engine is a 1.0-litre petrol engine offering 74bhp and balancing it with a prosperous 62.8mpg and emissions of 104g/km. EcoFLEX models will bring those emissions down a fraction and will also come with spoilers and rolling resistance tyres to achieve this.
Among the standard features are lane departure warning, cruise control as well as electric front windows, multi-functioning grip computer and heated door mirrors. Many of these features have become predominant elements of many modern hatchbacks across the market and the Viva is yet another vehicle to recognize what is decided by the modern motorists.
The features don’t end there for those wishing to upgrade to SL, you’ll benefit from climate control, USB Connectivity, 15-inch alloys and leather covered steering wheel. As well as a wealth of optional kit which you can cherry-pick till your heart’s content.
Inside, you’ll find adequate legroom with the Viva longer than it’s rivals the i10 and Peugeot 108 if legroom wasn’t a problem in those models – it certainly won’t be in the Vauxhall. A four-seated model will also be available if you’re not concerned about passenger room.
The twentieth century Viva chalked up 1.5million sales in it’s 15 year lifespan and Vauxhall will be hoping the re-launched vehicle will enjoy similar success. The vehicle will arrive in the summer of 2015 after it’s initial release date was extended. Pricing information and leasing deals are expected very soon.
