Used Vauxhall ADAM for sale nearColchester

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.7 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £5,400

Vauxhall ADAM (2013-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Quirky style	Underwhelming to drive
A very cheap used car	Very small inside
You're unlikely to find two exactly alike	No five-door version

Quick Summary

The Vauxhall ADAM (2013-2019) is Vauxhall's quirky take on the ultra-customisable supermini trend, competing with the Fiat 500 and MINI hatchback. The standout feature is its seemingly endless combination of customisation options, allowing buyers to create a unique, highly personalised package through exterior trim, body and roof colours, interior upholstery, and even LED-backlit trim panels. Available as a three-door hatchback only, the ADAM offers decent cabin quality with funky styling, though practicality is limited with a cramped rear and tiny 170-litre boot.

The driving experience is underwhelming compared to rivals, with a bumpy ride and uninspiring handling, though it's easy to manoeuvre around town. Engine options range from a wimpy 1.2-litre with 69bhp to a more engaging turbocharged 1.0-litre with 114bhp and a turbocharged 1.4-litre S variant with 148bhp. Running costs are reasonable, with the 1.0-litre turbo achieving 60mpg officially and insurance groups starting from just 2. The ADAM Rocks variant, launched in 2014, offers a raised ride height and chunky styling, whilst the Rocks Air features a canvas folding roof. As a used car, the ADAM represents excellent value, though it's best suited as a second small car rather than a family vehicle.

Best for: Buyers seeking a quirky, highly personalised car on a budget, those wanting a stylish second vehicle, and drivers prioritising individuality over practicality.

Not ideal for: Families needing practicality and space, drivers seeking engaging handling or performance, or those requiring a five-door configuration.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the ADAM if: You're seeking a quirky, highly personalised car on a budget, want a stylish second vehicle, or prioritise individuality over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You need practicality and space for a family, seek engaging handling or performance, or require a five-door configuration.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall ADAM (2013-2019) is a style-focused supermini that excels in individuality and affordability but falls short on driving dynamics and practicality compared to rivals. Whilst the MINI Hatch and Ford Fiesta offer superior handling and the Fiat 500 provides comparable charm, the ADAM's extensive customisation options and significantly lower purchase price make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritising uniqueness. However, it's best suited as a second car rather than a primary family vehicle, as its limited space and underwhelming driving experience make it less versatile than competitors.

Read our full Vauxhall ADAM Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.