Opel/Vauxhall Adam

The Opel/Vauxhall Adam is GM Europe's entry into the premium sub-compact hatchback segment. Following the success of the Citroen DS3, Mini, Audi A1, Fiat 500 et al. it aims to offer an extensively customizable A-segment car with the appeal (and subsequent profitability) of a premium product.

At just under 3,700mm long, it sits between the Fiat 500 and Mini in terms of size and, like them, features three doors. It's clear that Opel has taken a very close look at its rivals when unpacking which elements make them successful. So we find a contrasting floating roof, copious chrome highlighting and full, blown fender surfacing. The rocker surfacing and door-handle/rear fender feature line are familiar from the recent Astra GTC. Wheel diameters are from 15- to 18-inches.

Inside, the color-keyed finishers of its rivals have also been replicated, while extensive smartphone integration (both Android and Apple iOS) to power its internet-based apps via a seven-inch screen. Trim levels are abandoned in favor of a series of ‘mood' packages named Jam "unconventional, fashionable and colorful", Glam "offers a more elegant, refined and sophisticated setting" and Slam "appeals to those with energetic and sporty attitudes" (yes, really!) as starting points but with a huge range of colors, finishes and options, that Opel claims offers over a million combinations.

"No other car in this segment can be personalized as much as the Opel ADAM because we are offering virtually unlimited exterior/interior color, fabric, decor and kit combination possibilities," says Mark Adams, Opel Vice President, Design. "It's unlikely our customers will see another car like theirs."

The Adam will make its debut at the Paris motor show in September. There is no word on a Buick version yet, although the growth of this market in the US and China make it appear likely.

Opel/Vauxhall Adam gallery>>

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