Although Opel and Vauxhall have accustomed us to using the same names for their cars, their upcoming budget model will have different names in continental Europe and in the UK.
While the Vauxhall model will be called Viva (a quite reasonable choice that sounds good next to brand’s name), Opel has chosen to go with a different name, Karl, which pays homage to one of company founder Adam Opel’s sons.
While Adam had turned Opel into the largest bicycle manufacturers of the world, his sons Carl, Wilhelm and Friedrich started the automobile adventure in 1898, building their first car the following year.
“Karl is a short, snappy and catchy name that represents Opel brand values: German, emotional and approachable,” explained Tina Müller, Chief Marketing Officer at Opel.
We’ll let you debate that in the comments section, but not before offering new details about the five-door entry-level model. Available from summer 2015, Opel Karl is 3,680mm (144.9in) long, slightly shorter than the Opel Adam (3,700mm) and significantly smaller than the new Corsa (4,000mm).
Despite the small size, the Agila replacement will offer up to five seats and promises to encapsulate “the best of Opel virtues in a smart and highly practical manner,” according to the automaker.
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