When the Vauxhall ADAM was released in 2012 its customisable personality thrust it into the limelight. But with numerous manufacturers following in suit with highly customisable derivatives, the ADAM needed something new to put it back on the map. Enter the ADAM ROCKS AIR.

Taking the million-plus combinations of the standard model and throwing in some plastic cladding, a raised suspension and a convertible roof, the ADAM ROCKS AIR offers more of a chunky off-roading vibe. Its folding fabric roof also brings it in line with its Citroen C1 Airscape, Fiat 500C and MINI Convertible competition.

Aside to offering something new, the ADAM ROCKS AIR also allows Vauxhall to rectify some of the things that were a little lacklustre on the standard car – like its engine range.

Performance

The new 113bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol is the clear highlight in the ADAM ROCKS AIR when it comes to performance.

Although diminutive, the 1.0-litre is surprisingly lively and is good for a zero to 62mph sprint of just 9.9 seconds, thanks to its turbocharger. This three-cylinder is definitely one of the best on the market and comes matched to a new, slick six-speed manual gearbox. You won’t have to work the gearbox much anyway, as there is plenty of power to tackle overtaking manoeuvres.

Comparable engines include Ford’s 123bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost in the Fiesta, achieving the same benchmark sprint in 9.4 seconds.

Other engines in the range include a rather drab 69bhp 1.2-litre petrol and an 86bhp 1.4-litre petrol unit.

Ride and Handling

There is even a selectable City Mode which makes the steering even lighter. But when it comes to fun factor, there are more engaging rivals.

Although only a slight tweak, the 15mm raised suspension in the ADAM ROCKS AIR is capable of handling speed bumps and pot holes a little better than the standard model. The steering remains incredibly light and its lack of feedback will limit how much fun you can have on winding roads. It is great however when it comes to navigating city streets as the light steering will help with difficult manoeuvres. There is even a selectable City Mode which makes the steering even lighter. But when it comes to fun factor, there are more engaging rivals. Although the steering is lacklustre on winding roads, body roll is minimal in the corners and there is plenty of grip. With the addition of the convertible roof – which can be folded down in just seven seconds at speeds of up to 80mph – road noise intrusion is more prominent than the hard top model, but not so much to annoy you or your passengers.

Interior and Equipment

The Vauxhall ADAM, or Opel ADAM, takes its name from the company’s founder, Adam Opel.

The interior comes fitted with a customisable dashboard inlay and an array of neat styling touches, like gloss highlights and colour inlays on the centre console. There is only one trim available, but it comes well-equipped with everything from DAB radio to Bluetooth and air-con to a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional extras will of course be a big part of the ADAM’s interior and an upgraded sound system, voice activated intelliLink system and array of dashboard colours are available. You can also choose from a wide range of mirror caps, exterior paint jobs and body decals. For those feeling patriotic, you can even have two Union Flag badges slapped on the sides. Although most small city cars and superminis struggle with rear passenger and boot space, the ADAM is particularly poor. You will be lucky if you can get comfy when it comes to head and leg room even if you are sat in the back on your own. In terms of boot space, the ADAM offers 170 litres – that is smaller than the boots of the Fiat 500C and Citroen DS3 Cabrio. Its high loading level is a nuisance as well.

Cost

If you overindulge when it comes to added extras you are certainly going to feel a hole in your bank account, so don’t get too carried away.

Unfortunately the three-cylinder petrol on-board isn’t as efficient as some of its sub 100g rivals, emitting 119g/km of CO2. It can return a reasonable 50mpg though. With its chic edge and convertible roof comes a slight premium in price tag as the ADAM ROCKS AIR cost almost £5,000 more than something like the Ford Fiesta, and around £1,000 more than the Fiat 500C. It is also around £3,000 more than the standard ADAM. Also, if you overindulge when it comes to added extras you are certainly going to feel a hole in your bank account, so don’t get too carried away.

Our Verdict

Vauxhall has certainly given the ADAM new appeal and appropriate arsenal when it comes to competing against fashionable, small car convertibles like the Fiat 500C and MINI Convertible. It also maintains its distinctive customisable personality, which is important as the car prides itself on it so much. Although its bespoke look may hurt you when it comes to selling it on if you are particularly daring. The addition of a 1.0-litre three-cylinder is also a big deal and will appeal to younger drivers who are after low emissions but also something with a bit of oomph.