Named after Vauxhall’s original Viva made from 1963 to 1979, the new model is 3.68m long and is said to bring room for up to five people.

Styling uses Vauxhall’s sculptured, precise design philosophy, including the signature “blade”, seen previously on the Insignia and GTC amongst others. At the front there’s a distinctive winged chrome bar with the Griffin badge along with bold headlights and taillights at the rear. A total of 10 exterior paint colours will be offered with a variety of 14- to 16-inch wheels.

Only one engine will be offered; the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder ECOTEC engine already seen in the ADAM ROCKS AIR and new Corsa. Specially developed for Viva, the 74bhp unit is mated to a five-speed transmission.

Vauxhall also says the Viva’s chassis and steering have been developed to provide exceptional safety and class-leading comfort.

Features include a City mode for the power steering to reduce effort. Park Assist alerts the driver to obstacles whilst parking plus there’s optional cruise control, sunroof, fog lights, heated front seats and heated steering wheel.

It’s also equipped with ESP featuring traction control, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Hill Start Assist. Further safety options can be selected including Lane Departure Warning.

Like its stablemates ADAM and Corsa, Viva also comes with the IntelliLink infotainment system, which allows seamless integration of Apple iOS and Android devices.

'Short, crisp and full of character, Vauxhall’s new entry-level model is a "proper" small car and will hold great appeal in this rapidly growing sector,' said Tim Tozer, Vauxhall’s chairman and managing director. 'On sale next year at an extremely attractive price point, Viva joins new Corsa and ADAM in a compelling small car portfolio, giving Vauxhall an unrivalled position in the small car market.'