Based on the Chevrolet Spark, the Viva will join the carmaker’s ADAM and the Corsa supermini and will be available with either four or five seats.

Vauxhall says the new model will offer ‘an extremely attractive price point’ as well as high levels of specification with a range of trims and equipment levels in line with growing demands within this sector.

‘This bold, radical name will attract attention and engender curiosity in the car,’ said Peter Hope, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director.

The original Viva was available from 1963 to 1979 and Vauxhall says that: ‘Designed for modern, everyday life, the all-new model will share the original’s clean lines, durability and practicality.’ Over 1.5 million Vivas were manufactured at Vauxhall’s plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. 

The model will also be sold in Europe under the Opel badge but will use a different name to Viva, which will be announced tomorrow (Thursday 11th September 2014).