Vauxhall has announced the name for its new MINI rival that is due to make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in September. The car, formerly known as the Junior, will now be called the Adam in deference to Opel founder, Adam Opel, which has caused more than a little consternation amongst the pro-Vauxhall heritage brigade...
The Junior name was not considered 'mature' enough for a car that is meant to signal Vauxhall's move upmarket. Set to occupy the premium super-mini class the new Adam will be offered as a three-door, four-seat model, measuring 3.70 metres in length - almost identical to the MINI hatch.
As with the MINI - and indeed the Fiat 500 - customisation will be the big focus in the Adam with Vauxhall stating that the number of variables will mean no two Adam's will be alike.
The Adam will be underpinned by General Motor's new small car platform that will also see use in the next generation Corsa. The engine range is expected to comprise of economy-focused three-cylinder petrol and diesel units though sportier models may be powered by four-cylinder engines. An all-electric version is also planned for 2015.
Paul Healy - 8 May 2012