Owner reviews for the Vauxhall VIVA
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5The Vauxhall Viva is a smart, practical choice for drivers seeking everyday affordability and peace of mind.
London
AA finance available
Romford
Northwood
West Drayton
West Drayton
Watford
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5The Vauxhall Viva is a simple, reliable city car designed for drivers who prioritise value, easy driving and comfort in a compact size. Revived in 2015 as a five-door hatchback, it ran until 2019 and replaced the Vauxhall Agila as the brand’s entry-level choice. It is easy to live with, especially compared to rivals like the Kia Picanto, Hyundai i10 and Ford Ka. All Vivas use a 1.0-litre petrol engine with straightforward equipment, low running costs and brisk steering, making it a favourite for practical, fuss-free driving within an accessible budget.
Most Vauxhall Viva models come with six airbags, stability control, tyre pressure monitoring and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Euro NCAP awarded it three stars in 2015, so it meets key safety standards, though some rivals offer more advanced safety tech.
All Vauxhall Vivas are fitted with the same engine: a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol. This simple, non-turbocharged unit is reliable and designed for efficiency – something to keep in mind if you value low running costs.
Even base versions provide Bluetooth, USB, cruise control and heated mirrors. Mid-spec SE Nav and SL add features such as a 7-inch touchscreen, sat nav, and air conditioning. The Viva Rocks trim includes a raised ride height and extra styling, but tech is similar.
Official figures say the Vauxhall Viva returns around 54mpg. Real-world driving may be a little less, but most owners achieve strong efficiency, helped by the light weight and modest engine. Tax and insurance costs are also low.
Look for a full service history and signs of careful town driving. Check all electrical features work, ensure service intervals haven't been missed, and pay attention to clutch and brake feel. For peace of mind, consider getting a service from The AA Vehicle Inspection before you buy.
The Viva has a reputation for trusty, unfussy reliability. Most issues are minor, such as wear to interior trims or the occasional sensor fault. Regular servicing and moderate use mean most second-hand Vivas are a safe buy for low-stress motoring.