GM'S ANSWER TO THE YARIS VERSO - THE AGILIA

The five-door mini MPV Agila is only 3500 mm long but offers comfortable seating for four adults and a luggage capacity of around 250 to 600 litres (up to the top-edge of the front seat backs). Two lively yet economical ECOTEC petrol engines (1.0 12v and 1.2 16v, delivering 58 and 75 hp respectively) are available to power the Agila, which weighs just 900 kilograms. Fuel consumption ranges from only 47mpg (1.0) to 42mpg (1.2) - combined figures - and both units already comply with the strict Euro IV exhaust emissions standard, which becomes effective in 2005. Agila - which is covered by a 12-year anti-perforation warranty - goes on sale in summer 2000.

The Agila's styling - especially the typical hood and grille design - define it clearly as a member of the Vauxhall family. Agila passengers will experience a light, inviting interior and comfortable seats. To optimise interior space, the 50:50 split rear seats can be folded down quickly to create a completely flat load surface. The large tailgate and low sill make the Agila a fun and functional all-rounder for active families, with plenty of space for the shopping, sports equipment or bulkier objects.

Vauxhall's engineers optimised the Agila's chassis in terms of safety, agility and comfort. Short overhangs complement the MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension, making the Agila easy to handle, especially in an urban environment. Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPS) makes parking easier and also reduces fuel consumption. The Agila is available with a comprehensive safety package including side impact protection beams, dual front airbags, as well as seatbelt tensioners and belt-force limiters for the front seats. In case of a severe frontal impact, the pedals disengage, thus significantly reducing the risk of injury to the driver's feet and lower legs. The rear seats are equipped with Vauxhall Fix anchor points to install the corresponding child seats. There are child safety locks on the rear doors.

The Agila is based on a joint development with Suzuki and will be produced at General Motors' newest plant in Gliwice, Poland. This modern facility, which was opened in autumn 1998, is modelled on General Motors' highly efficient Eisenach factory (in eastern Germany) and employs state-of-the-art production processes to ensure similarly high standards of quality, which are reflected in the 12-year anti-perforation warranty.

Click here for details of the Toyota Yaris Verso - the Agilia's main rival.

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