CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.7 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £5,600

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 a quirky, ultra-customisable supermini that takes inspiration from the Fiat 500 and MINI hatchback. With seemingly endless combinations of exterior trim, interior upholstery, and personalisation options, each ADAM is uniquely tailored to its owner. The 2014 introduction of the ADAM Rocks variant added SUV-inspired styling with a raised ride height and chunky cladding, whilst the ADAM Rocks Air featured a canvas folding roof opening in seven seconds. Despite its charming aesthetic and low purchase price, the ADAM offers limited practicality with a three-door-only configuration, cramped rear seats, and a tiny 170-litre boot.

The driving experience is underwhelming compared to rivals like the MINI and Ford Fiesta, with a bumpy ride and uninspiring handling. Early models featured underpowered 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre petrol engines, but the 2014 introduction of a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with 114bhp proved more engaging. The ADAM S arrived with a turbocharged 1.4-litre producing 148bhp, offering the quickest performance. Running costs are reasonable, with the 1.0-litre turbo achieving 60mpg officially, whilst insurance groups start at just 2 out of 50 for the 1.2-litre. The ADAM is best suited as a second small car for style-conscious buyers rather than a practical family vehicle.

Best for: Buyers seeking a quirky, highly personalised car with low purchase costs, and those wanting a distinctive second vehicle with affordable running costs.

Not ideal for: Families needing practicality, drivers prioritising engaging handling, or those requiring a five-door configuration or spacious interior.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the ADAM if: You prioritise quirky style and personalisation, seek a very affordable used car, and want a distinctive second vehicle with low running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You need practicality, require engaging handling, or want a five-door configuration with a spacious interior.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall ADAM (2013-2019) occupies a unique niche as the most affordable option in the stylish supermini segment. Whilst it matches the Fiat 500 for quirkiness, it falls short on driving dynamics compared to the Ford Fiesta and lacks the premium appeal and user satisfaction of the MINI Hatch. However, for budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive, personalised car with low purchase and running costs, the ADAM represents exceptional value. Its main weakness is practicality and driving engagement, making it better suited as a second car than a primary family vehicle.

Read our full Vauxhall ADAM Review

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