CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.7 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 390
Average Price: Around £5,650

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. The car's defining feature is its seemingly endless combination of personalisation options, from exterior trim and roof colours to interior upholstery and even LED-backlit trim panels. This means you can create a unique, highly personalised package that's unlikely to be duplicated. However, the ADAM's relatively short six-year production run suggests it wasn't the commercial success Vauxhall hoped for, though it remains a decent used buy for those prioritising style over practicality.

As a three-door hatchback only, the ADAM offers limited interior space with a cramped rear and a tiny 170-litre boot, making it better suited as a second car rather than a family vehicle. The driving experience is underwhelming compared to rivals, with a bumpy ride and uninspiring handling, though it excels at easy town manoeuvring thanks to light steering and compact dimensions. 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 out of 50 for the 1.2-litre models.

Best for: Buyers seeking a unique, stylish second car on a tight budget, those who value personalisation and individuality, and drivers prioritising quirky charm over practicality.

Not ideal for: Families needing space and practicality, 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 unique, stylish second car on a tight budget, value personalisation and individuality, or prioritise quirky charm over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You need space and practicality 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 contender in the customisable supermini segment, offering exceptional value and unmatched personalisation options. Whilst it underperforms rivals like the Ford Fiesta for driving dynamics and the MINI Hatch for overall refinement, its significantly lower purchase price and unique character make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking individuality. The ADAM prioritises heart over head, appealing to those who value distinctive styling and affordability over practicality and performance. For buyers willing to compromise on space and driving engagement, it represents excellent value in the used market.

Read our full Vauxhall ADAM Review

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

Read full review