The Vauxhall Viva GSV 1.0i ecoFLEX, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a return to form for a nameplate with a rich history in the British automotive landscape. This generation of the Viva was a city car designed to offer affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality within a compact package. Marketed primarily in Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, the Viva GSV aimed to compete with rivals like the Fiat 500, Volkswagen Up!, and Hyundai i10. It served as Vauxhall’s entry-level offering, focusing on providing a low cost of ownership and ease of driving in urban environments.
Vauxhall Viva GSV: Overview and Market Positioning
The Viva name first appeared in 1963 and enjoyed a successful run for several decades, becoming a popular choice for British motorists. The 2015 revival, however, was a distinctly modern interpretation. The GSV trim level, denoting a higher specification, offered features aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its European context is crucial to appreciating its design and engineering priorities. The car was built in Eisenach, Germany, reflecting General Motors’ (Vauxhall’s parent company at the time) European manufacturing footprint.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Vauxhall Viva GSV 1.0i ecoFLEX is a naturally aspirated 999 cc inline three-cylinder engine, designated the B10XE. This engine produces 75 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 95 Nm (70.07 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine’s focus is on maximizing fuel economy. The Viva GSV achieves a combined fuel consumption of 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers (54.7 US mpg or 65.7 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions rated at 99 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.9 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.2 seconds. The top speed is 171 km/h (106.25 mph). The engine utilizes a multi-port manifold fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficiency and relatively smooth operation.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Viva GSV is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and maximizing interior space within a small footprint. The exterior styling is characterized by a relatively conservative and modern aesthetic, aiming for broad appeal. Key features of the GSV trim included air conditioning, power steering, and an infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features, crucial in the modern automotive landscape, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags. The interior, while basic, was designed to be durable and functional. The rear seats fold down to increase cargo capacity from a minimum of 206 liters (7.27 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1013 liters (35.77 cu. ft.). The Viva GSV’s compact dimensions – a length of 3675 mm (144.69 in.) and a width of 1595 mm (62.8 in.) – make it particularly well-suited for navigating congested city streets and parking in tight spaces.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Viva |
| Generation | Viva GSV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0i ecoFLEX (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 4500 rpm (70.07 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | B10XE |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1353 kg (2982.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 206 l (7.27 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1013 l (35.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 32 l (8.45 US gal | 7.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 3675 mm (144.69 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front overhang | 756 mm (29.76 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 534 mm (21.02 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.331 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15; 195/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The Vauxhall Viva GSV 1.0i ecoFLEX, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a sensible and affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient city car in the European market. Its focus on economy and ease of use, combined with a relatively low price point, made it a competitive offering in its segment.
