Vauxhall Agila
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small car that’s big on practicality? The Vauxhall Agila might just be the sensible choice you need. This compact city car was designed with one clear mission: to offer maximum space and usability in a package that’s easy to drive and affordable to own. It’s the car for people who want clever packaging above flashy features.

The Agila stands out by being genuinely different from rivals like the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo. While those cars prioritise style and driving dynamics, the Agila focuses on being a practical tool. Its tall, upright stance gives it a distinctive appearance that some will love and others might find a bit too utilitarian. But there’s method to this design approach.

Inside, you’ll discover why the Agila earned a loyal following. The cabin feels surprisingly spacious for such a small car, with excellent head and legroom front and rear. The driving position is high and commanding, giving you a great view of the road ahead. It’s not trying to be the prettiest or most exciting small car on the market. Instead, it delivers honest, dependable transportation that makes everyday journeys comfortable and stress free.

How Does the Vauxhall Agila Drive?

The Vauxhall Agila isn’t about thrills, it’s about getting you from A to B efficiently. The most common engine is the 1.2 litre petrol unit producing around 86 horsepower. It’s not fast by any measure, with 0-60mph taking around 12 seconds, but it provides adequate power for city driving and gentle motorway cruising. The engine is smooth and reasonably refined, though it does get vocal when worked hard.

Where the Agila excels is in its easy going nature. The light steering makes parking effortless, while the high driving position gives you excellent visibility in traffic. The ride quality is surprisingly good for such a compact hatchback, soaking up most bumps and potholes without fuss. It’s not engaging to drive in the traditional sense, but it’s comfortable and relaxing. The five speed manual gearbox is light and precise, though an automatic option was also available for those who prefer effortless city driving.

Inside the Vauxhall Agila: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Agila and you’ll immediately notice how spacious it feels. The high roofline and upright seating position create an airy, open atmosphere that’s rare in cars this size. The dashboard is simple and functional, with clearly marked controls and a no nonsense layout. Materials aren’t premium, but they feel solid and hard wearing, exactly what you’d expect from a practical family car.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustment to help you find the right driving position. Road noise is well controlled, making the cabin a pleasant place to spend time. Air conditioning was standard on most models, along with electric windows and a decent stereo system. The real party piece is the rear seat space. Adults can actually sit comfortably in the back, something that’s genuinely difficult in many city cars. It’s this clever use of space that makes the Agila stand out from more style focused rivals.

The Vauxhall Agila is an honest, unpretentious car that does exactly what it promises. It prioritises practicality and affordability over style and performance, making it perfect for drivers who value substance over flash. The spacious interior and comfortable ride quality are genuine strengths that set it apart from more conventional rivals.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Vauxhall Agila?

The Agila shines when it comes to running costs, making it an excellent choice for budget conscious drivers. The 1.2 litre petrol engine returns real world fuel economy of around 45-50 mpg, keeping fuel bills manageable. Insurance groups are low, typically ranging from group 5 to 8, which means affordable premiums for most drivers. Road tax is also reasonable thanks to the engine’s modest CO2 emissions.

Purchase prices are very attractive, especially on the used market where you can find good examples for well under £5,000. Servicing costs are reasonable, and parts are readily available through Vauxhall’s extensive dealer network. The Agila has a reputation for reliability, though like any car, regular maintenance is essential. With car finance options available, the Agila represents excellent value for money, offering dependable transport without breaking the bank.

Vauxhall Agila Practicality & Boot Space

For such a small car, the Vauxhall Agila is remarkably practical. The 300 litre boot is decent for the class and can be expanded by folding the rear seats, creating a surprisingly large loading area. The wide opening tailgate and low loading sill make it easy to get bulky items in and out. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage spaces for phones, drinks, and other everyday items.

The real strength is passenger space. The tall body allows for generous head and legroom, making the Agila genuinely useful as a four seater. It’s ideal for small families, older drivers who want easy access, or anyone who values space over style. While it may not have the sporty appeal of some used Vauxhall cars, it delivers exactly what many drivers actually need: reliable, spacious, affordable transport that’s easy to live with every day.

The Vauxhall Agila stands out in the small car market by prioritising practicality above all else. It offers genuine space for four adults, excellent visibility, and rock bottom running costs in an affordable package. While it may not win any beauty contests or provide thrilling driving dynamics, it excels at being a sensible, dependable everyday car.

You choose the Agila because you want maximum practicality for minimum cost. Its tall, airy cabin and comfortable ride make every journey pleasant, whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out on longer trips. For buyers seeking reliable transport that won’t cost the earth, especially those considering cars under £10,000, the Agila represents outstanding value. It’s proof that sometimes the most sensible choice is also the smartest one.