Vauxhall has given the Agila small MPV a new lease on life. The second-generation Agila, which shares its platform with the Suzuki Wagon R+, has been significantly redesigned and features a new diesel engine and an optional automatic transmission.
The new Agila's styling cues are softer than those of its angular forebear. The exterior design bears a distinct similarity to the recently revealed
Suzuki Splash, although the headlamps, fog lights and tail lamp designs have been altered to differentiate the Vauxhall model. The Agila also sports a rear window that dips down in the centre instead of cutting straight across the tailgate.
Larger than its predecessor, the new Agila is still small enough to be manoeuvred around city streets and fit into tight parking spaces, yet the interior is claimed to offer more room for five adults along with plenty of storage space. The revised model also features a rather impressive maximum 1,150-litre luggage capacity.
Like the Suzuki Splash, engine choices for the revised Agila will include two Suzuki-developed petrol units and a GM turbodiesel. The 1-litre three-cylinder is claimed to generate 65bhp while the 86bhp 1.2-litre four-cylinder will be available with an automatic gearbox, an option Vauxhall expects to be popular with urban dwellers. The new 1.3-litre CDTi diesel (as used in Vauxhall's Corsa) is expected to be the top choice in the UK.
Scheduled to be unveiled at the
Frankfurt Auto Show in September, the five-door Agila will arrive in UK dealerships early next year.
Eric Gallina - 7 Jun 2007