Vauxhall Junior spied

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Lehmann

26th August 2011

Vauxhall's MINI rival is coming – and these spy shots give us the first glimpse of the newcomer, currently codenamed Junior.

The model is set to mark a change in direction for Vauxhall, with its eye-catching styling, luxurious materials and premium price tag. It’s thought to be based on a shortened version of the Corsa platform and will measure in at 3.7m in length – the same size as the MINI hatch.

Like its retro-inspired rival, the Junior will focus on offering a huge range of customisation options, as well as a fun and engaging driving experience.

While these pictures don’t give too much away about how the Junior will look when it hits the road, insiders say Vauxhall’s double-bar grille and eagle-eye headlamps will both feature.

The engine line-up will consist of a range of next-generation units developed by parent company General Motors. Among them will be an ultra-efficient direct-injection 1.0-litre petrol unit, promising CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km and combined economy of around 80mpg. Production is due to start next year, with the range priced from £11,000 at launch in 2013.

While the Junior won’t make an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, Vauxhall is promising an ‘experimental’ concept with a focus on driving fun. There will also be debuts for the Astra GTC, Zafira Tourer and Ampera hybrid.