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In-depth review

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) review

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 25 Jul 2026 · 8 min read· 2014–2018

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) View gallery (15)

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) is sold in the UK between 2014 and 2018. Engine choices cover petrol power, with manual gearboxes. Bodystyles run to 4 seats and 3 doors. This review covers what the Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) is like to drive and live with, running costs, common faults and reliability, and what to check before you buy a used one. Our reviewers score it 3.4 out of 5 overall.

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks is a charming and stylish vehicle that successfully combines retro aesthetics with modern technology. Its agile handling, personalisation options, and competitive running costs make it an appealing choice for urban drivers and those seeking a distinctive automotive experience. However, consider future electric versions for a sustainable option. This model earns a strong recommendation for buyers looking to stand out from the crowd.

At a glance

hp · Power
113
miles · Range / tank
476
0–60 mph
9.6s
Running costs
££
Typical finance
From £288/mo

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for
  • Distinctive retro styling
  • Good handling in urban environments
  • Customisation options for personalisation
Consider alternatives if
  • Limited rear space
  • Higher road noise at motorway speeds
  • Basic infotainment in older models

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£288/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,700 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Theo's AI summary

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks is a charming and stylish vehicle that successfully combines retro aesthetics with modern technology. Its agile handling, personalisation options, and competitive running costs make it an appealing choice for urban drivers and those seeking a distinctive automotive experience. However, consider future electric versions for a sustainable option. This model earns a strong recommendation for buyers looking to stand out from the crowd.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£103/month

Insurance

£70/month

Road Tax

£1683/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£1916/month

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Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) interior and driving experience

Handling is a key strength of the Vauxhall Adam Rocks, offering a hybrid nature that combines the agility of a small car with the elevated stance typically associated with SUVs. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between sportiness and comfort, ensuring that each corner

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

69–147 bhp

0–60 mph

8.2 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

130 mph

Engine

998–1,398 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

40.4–60.0 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

6.6 mpp

CO₂

108–145 g/km

Insurance group

2–15 of 50

Road tax

£35/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

3,698 mm

Width

1,966 mm

Height

1,484 mm

Wheelbase

2,311 mm

Kerb weight

1,135 kg

Seats

4

Doors

3

Euro NCAP safety

4/5 · 2013

Safety assist

81%

Figures span the 155 recorded trim variants (2012–2019). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.

Check this Adam before you buy

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) for saleBrowse live UK stockMOT history checkFree DVSA MOT & advisoriesCar tax checkerCheck annual VED road taxULEZ / CAZ checkerClean Air Zone compliance

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks impresses with its stylish design and compact dimensions, making it ideal for urban driving. Reviewers praise its fun handling and personalised customisation options. However, rear space and boot capacity are limited, and some find the engine choices underwhelming in terms of performance.

Read full review
Autocar

The Adam Rocks boasts a distinctive look with a strong emphasis on individual style. Its design is celebrated for its quirky features and urban appeal. Nevertheless, critics point out that it's not overly practical, with limited interior space and somewhat utilitarian materials.

Read full review
WhatCar

While the Adam Rocks offers a comfortable ride and decent agility, it falls short in reliability compared to rivals. The limited rear space and boot access are also common criticisms. Owners enjoy the interior quality, but the limited engine options detract from its overall appeal.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

In terms of finance, the Vauxhall Adam Rocks remains reasonably priced within its segment, appealing to a younger demographic looking to acquire a stylish vehicle. Various financing options are available, including personal contract purchase (PCP) schemes, making it accessible for many potential buyers.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Vauxhall Adam Rocks are generally attractive, particularly for those who seek a stylish vehicle without exorbitant outgoings. With a choice of small yet efficient engines, fuel consumption remains reasonable, depending on your driving habits. Regular maintenance is straightforward, reflecting Vauxhall's commitment to accessibility in servicing.

Charging & fuel

While the standard petrol models offer good mileage, future electric iterations promise to further reduce running costs through the use of electric charging technologies. As such, electric charging solutions are becoming increasingly viable and affordable, making them advantageous for eco-conscious consumers.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2014

    Launch of the Vauxhall Adam Rocks

  2. 2015

    Introduction of new engine variants

  3. 2016

    Expanded colour and trim options

  4. 2018

    Final production year before transitioning to electric successor

Read full launch story

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks was created to combine style and practicality, offering a unique alternative for urban drivers who desire individuality. Originally launched as a fun and chic city car, the Adam Rocks has evolved to incorporate modern technology and sustainability, heralding a shift towards electric versions to meet environmental needs.

Compare with alternatives

The Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) competes effectively with its rivals by offering unique styling and customization options, although it may lag behind in driving dynamics and overall refinement compared to more established competitors.

Ford Fiesta

Reference only

The Ford Fiesta is known for its engaging driving dynamics and broad appeal, making it a strong competitor in the small hatchback segment.

vs features
The Fiesta excels in driving feel, boasting precise handling and a fun-to-drive character, while the Adam offers more customization options. In terms of tech, both vehicles are competitive, but the Fiesta generally has a more intuitive infotainment system and better quality materials overall.
vs price
The Fiesta tends to be slightly more expensive than the Adam, especially in well-equipped trims, but can often justify the cost with its performance and features.
No Motoring Today review

Volkswagen Polo

Reference only

The Polo is often regarded as a more mature option in the supermini segment, appealing to those prioritizing quality and refinement.

vs features
The Polo typically offers more cabin space and a more refined interior compared to the Adam. It tends to have more advanced tech features available, though the Adam is recognized for having a chic and customizable interior.
vs price
The Polo is usually priced higher than the Adam, reflecting its positioning as a premium offering in its class with solid resale values.
No Motoring Today review

Peugeot 208

Reference only

The Peugeot 208 is known for its stylish design and efficient engines, appealing to buyers looking for a blend of style and practicality.

vs features
The 208 compares favorably with the Adam in terms of interior design but offers a more spacious cabin. The tech offerings are competitive, with both vehicles featuring touchscreen interfaces, though the Adam often comes with more customization options.
vs price
The 208 is generally in a similar price range to the Adam, though higher trims can push it slightly above. Peugeot often offers more value in terms of included features at entry-level prices.
No Motoring Today review

Available now

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) for sale on Motoring Today

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

TrimFuelPower0–60EconomyCO₂Ins.New price
1.0T ecoFLEX Unlimited [Start Stop] 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017Petrol113 bhp9.6s60 mpg108 g/km10£14,920
1.4i (100bhp) Unlimited 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018Petrol98 bhp11.1s52 mpg125 g/km6£14,185
1.4i (100bhp) ecoFLEX Unlimited (Start Stop) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017Petrol98 bhp11.1s56 mpg118 g/km7£14,065
1.4i Unlimited 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018Petrol85 bhp12.1s52 mpg125 g/km6£13,610
1.4i ecoFLEX Unlimited 3d EasytronicAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017Petrol85 bhp13.5s56 mpg118 g/km6£13,645
1.2i ecoFLEX Unlimited (Start Stop) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017Petrol69 bhp14.4s57 mpg115 g/km2£13,315
1.4T S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2015–2019Petrol147 bhp8.2s40.4 - 42.8 mpg145 g/km15£19,075
1.4T Grand Slam 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2015Petrol147 bhp8.2s47 mpg139 g/km15£16,865
1.2i Energised 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2015–2019Petrol69 bhp14.4s41.5 - 44.8 mpg128 g/km2£15,535
1.0T ecoFLEX Glam (Style Pack) (Start Stop) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2014–2015Petrol113 bhp9.6s56 mpg115 g/km10£15,825

Specs by trim

1.0T ecoFLEX Rocks (Start Stop) 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
170 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
476 mi
CO₂
112 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£17,235
1.0T ecoFLEX Rocks (Technical Pack) (SS) 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
170 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
476 mi
CO₂
112 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£17,750
1.2i Rocks 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2018
Power
69 bhp
0–60 mph
14.4 s
Top speed
103 mph
Torque
115 Nm
Economy
53 mpg
Range
443 mi
CO₂
125 g/km
Insurance group
2
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£15,750
1.2i Rocks (Technical Pack) 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2018
Power
69 bhp
0–60 mph
14.4 s
Top speed
103 mph
Torque
115 Nm
Economy
53 mpg
Range
443 mi
CO₂
125 g/km
Insurance group
2
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£16,265
1.0T ecoFLEX Rocks Air (Start Stop) 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
170 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
476 mi
CO₂
112 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£18,235
1.0T ecoFLEX Rocks Air (Technical Pack) (SS) 3dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
170 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
476 mi
CO₂
112 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£18,750

+ 13 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the Vauxhall Adam Rocks a retro icon reborn?
The Vauxhall Adam Rocks combines quirky styling with modern technology, aimed at budget-conscious commuters. Its anticipated electric version promises to retain its unique character while embracing eco-friendly driving.
What are the running costs for the Vauxhall Adam Rocks?
With a starting price of around £12,500 and an average fuel economy of 53 mpg, the Adam Rocks offers affordable running costs and straightforward maintenance, appealing to budget-friendly drivers.
How does the Vauxhall Adam Rocks perform in urban driving?
The Adam Rocks excels in urban environments with responsive steering and compact size, making it easy to navigate tight corners and park, while its zippy engine adds to the fun.
What are the personalisation options for the Vauxhall Adam Rocks?
The Vauxhall Adam Rocks features extensive personalisation options, allowing drivers to customise its aesthetics and make it uniquely their own, enhancing its appeal to younger buyers.
What charging solutions will be available for the electric version?
As the electric version of the Vauxhall Adam Rocks is developed, charging infrastructure across the UK is improving, promising convenient options for future electric owners to enhance their commuting experience.

Vauxhall Adam Rocks (2014 - 2018) (2014–2018)

From £288/month