The Opel Agila B (sold as the Vauxhall Agila in the UK) represents a massive leap forward compared to its boxy, utilitarian predecessor. Co-developed with Suzuki and built alongside its mechanical twin, the Suzuki Splash, in Esztergom, Hungary, the Agila B blends the footprint of a city car with the practicality and high seating position of a micro-MPV. Its greatest asset is its underlying Suzuki engineering, particularly the highly reliable K-series petrol engines. It offers a surprisingly spacious cabin, agile handling for urban environments, and low running costs, making it an excellent, often overlooked choice in the used car market.
The Opel Agila B is an outstanding, no-nonsense city car. By leveraging Suzuki's expertise in small-car packaging and petrol engine reliability, Opel created a vehicle that outlasts many of its European rivals. While the interior feels built to a price and the boot is tiny, its mechanical robustness, low running costs, and practical 5-door layout make it a highly recommended used buy. Strong advice: Stick exclusively to the 1.0 or 1.2 petrol engines. The 1.3 CDTI diesel should be avoided unless you have a very specific high-mileage commute, as city driving will inevitably lead to expensive DPF and EGR failures.