Vauxhall Viva
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an affordable small car that does the basics well without breaking the bank? The Vauxhall Viva might be just what you need. This budget-friendly city car was designed to offer practical, economical motoring for drivers who want reliable transport without unnecessary frills. It’s the car for people who prioritise value for money and straightforward driving over luxury features or sporting performance.

From the outside, the Viva presents a clean, understated design that’s refreshingly honest about what it is. While it may not turn heads like some rivals such as the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo, it has a pleasant, approachable appearance that works well in urban environments. The interior follows the same practical philosophy, with simple controls and a sensible layout that makes everything easy to find and use.

Driving the Viva is a straightforward, comfortable experience that excels in town and city driving. The light steering makes parking effortless, while the compact dimensions mean you can squeeze into tight spaces with confidence. The ride is smooth enough for daily commuting, and the engine delivers adequate performance for most driving situations. While it may lack the refinement or excitement of pricier alternatives, the Viva delivers exactly what it promises: reliable, affordable motoring that gets you from A to B without fuss or drama.

What's the Vauxhall Viva Like to Drive?

The Vauxhall Viva keeps things simple with a single 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 75 horsepower. This modest output means acceleration is leisurely rather than brisk, with 0-60mph taking around 13.5 seconds. However, the engine feels perfectly adequate for city driving and short journeys. Around town, there’s enough punch to pull away smartly from traffic lights and merge into traffic confidently. The engine note is reasonably refined, though it does get a bit vocal when you ask for more power on faster roads.

Where the Viva really excels is in its easy-going driving manners. The light, responsive steering makes navigating tight city streets and car parks a breeze. The compact hatchback feels nimble and manoeuvrable, inspiring confidence even for nervous drivers. The suspension does a good job of smoothing out most bumps and potholes, though it can feel a little firm when the car is lightly loaded. On motorways, the Viva feels stable and secure, though wind noise becomes noticeable at higher speeds. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, but it’s competent and reassuring in all everyday situations.

Vauxhall Viva Interior, Tech & Comfort Review

Step inside the Viva and you’ll find a cabin that prioritises function over form. The dashboard design is clean and uncluttered, with large, clearly labelled buttons that are easy to use even while driving. The materials are mostly hard plastics, but they feel robust and well-fitted. The overall build quality is solid, with no obvious creaks or rattles. Higher-spec models get a colour touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, bringing the interior up to modern standards.

The front seats offer reasonable comfort and support for shorter journeys, though taller drivers might find the driving position a bit cramped on longer trips. Visibility is excellent all-round thanks to the upright seating position and large windows. The cabin is reasonably quiet at city speeds, making conversations easy. While the interior may not feel particularly premium, it’s practical and user-friendly. Everything you need is within easy reach, and the simple layout means you won’t be hunting around for basic controls. The air conditioning works well when fitted, and the heating system is effective at keeping the cabin comfortable in winter.

The Vauxhall Viva succeeds in its mission to provide honest, affordable motoring without pretensions. It’s not the most exciting or sophisticated car in its class, but it delivers reliable transport with impressively low running costs. The simple, unfussy approach extends from the straightforward interior to the easy-going driving experience.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Vauxhall Viva?

This is where the Viva really shines, offering some of the lowest running costs in the small car market. The efficient 1.0-litre engine can achieve an impressive 62.8mpg in real-world driving, meaning you’ll spend less time and money at petrol stations. Insurance groups are very reasonable, typically falling between groups 1-5, making it an excellent choice for young drivers or anyone looking to keep premiums low. Road tax is also minimal thanks to low CO2 emissions.

The Viva’s affordable purchase price is perhaps its biggest selling point, often costing significantly less than rivals when new. Used examples offer even better value, with well-maintained cars available from around £6,000. Service costs are reasonable, with Vauxhall’s extensive dealer network making maintenance convenient. Depreciation is quite steep, which is bad news if buying new but great for used car buyers. The simple mechanical layout means fewer things can go wrong, helping to keep repair bills manageable. With flexible car finance options available, the Viva makes motoring accessible to budget-conscious buyers.

Is the Vauxhall Viva Practical for Everyday Use?

For such a small car, the Viva makes good use of its compact footprint. The 206-litre boot is adequate for weekly shopping or a couple of small suitcases, though it’s smaller than some rivals. The rear seats fold down to create a useful load area when needed. Inside the cabin, there are enough storage cubbies and cup holders for everyday items, though don’t expect the clever storage solutions found in some competitors.

The back seats are best suited to children or shorter adults on brief journeys. Legroom is tight, and the roofline slopes quite steeply, limiting headroom for taller passengers. However, for a couple or small family using it primarily for city driving, the Viva offers sufficient space for most needs. Its compact size is actually a major advantage when navigating narrow streets or searching for parking spaces. Compared to other used Vauxhall cars, the Viva sits at the smaller end of the range but maximises the space available within its city car dimensions.

The Vauxhall Viva carves out its own niche in the competitive small car market by focusing on value, economy, and simplicity. While it may not match the sophistication or space of some rivals, it delivers exactly what many drivers actually need: reliable, affordable transport with minimal running costs. The straightforward approach and budget-friendly pricing make it particularly attractive to first-time buyers or anyone prioritising economy over luxury.

You choose the Viva because you want no-nonsense motoring that won’t break the bank. Its excellent fuel economy, low insurance costs, and affordable purchase price create a compelling package for budget-conscious buyers. While it may lack some modern conveniences, it more than makes up for this with dependable performance and impressive value, especially among cars under £10,000 where it offers excellent bang for your buck.