CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: Not available
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.7 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £5,700

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 customisable supermini trend, competing with the Fiat 500 and MINI Hatch. Available only as a three-door hatchback, it prioritises style and personalisation over practicality. With a 170-litre boot and cramped rear seats, it's better suited as a second car than a family vehicle. The cabin features quality materials and a funky design, with the 2014 ADAM Rocks variant offering a raised ride height and canvas folding roof for added appeal.

Driving dynamics are underwhelming compared to rivals, with a bumpy ride and uninspiring handling, though it excels in town thanks to light steering and compact dimensions. Engine options range from a wimpy 1.2-litre (69bhp) to a turbocharged 1.4-litre (148bhp), with the 1.0-litre turbo (114bhp) offering the best balance of performance and efficiency. Running costs are low, with the 1.0-litre achieving 60mpg officially and insurance groups starting from just 2. Services cost between £205 and £435 at Vauxhall dealers, with parts generally affordable.

Best for: Buyers seeking a unique, stylish second car on a tight budget, those who value personalisation and quirky design over practicality and driving engagement.

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


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the ADAM if: You want a unique, stylish second car on a budget, value personalisation and quirky design, and don't require practicality or engaging driving dynamics.

Consider alternatives if: You need space for families, prioritise engaging handling and performance, require a five-door configuration, or want better overall value and user satisfaction.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall ADAM (2013-2019) is the most affordable option in this segment, offering unmatched style and customisation. However, it lags behind rivals in driving dynamics, practicality, and overall user satisfaction. The Fiat 500 offers similar style with better value (42.7% good/great deals), whilst the Ford Fiesta and MINI Hatch deliver superior handling and higher expert ratings. The ADAM is best suited for style-conscious buyers prioritising individuality over substance, making it a heart-over-head purchase rather than a practical family choice.

Read our full Vauxhall ADAM Review

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

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