With only 50 units made available for the South African market, Adam S is sure a head-turner as was the result recently.
And my Gogo agrees its cool but the only snag: compact seating arrangement.
The latest Adam S completes the Adam generation launched last year, with the newcomer positioned to attract young buyers who seek a compact and agile car with an overtly performance-orientated personality.
With 110kW and 220Nm from its turbocharged 1.4-litre Ecotec engine, and an unladen mass of 1 178kg, the Adam S delivers specific output exceeding 74kW/litre.
The 18-inch “Propeller” wheels have a distinctive five-spoke design, with red brake callipers clearly visible. For the first time in an Adam, the exhaust tip – in this instance a chromed, oval one – can be readily seen.
Features such as Advanced Park Assist, Side Blind Spot Alert, Intellilink and Siri Eyes Free, positions Adam S as South Africa’s most technologically-advanced small car.
Once commented Brian Olson, vice president: vehicle sales and marketing at GM South Africa:” The Opel Adam S has been designed and engineered for people who want to enjoy a sporty driving experience in a car with a unique and individual look.
To achieve this, Opel engineers came up with a powertrain that would give its best across a broad rev range. This includes climate control, height and reach-adjustable steering column, power windows, cruise control and a split/foldable rear seat for added practicality.
“With the strong inherent torque characteristics and the use of a six-speed gearbox, the driver will always enjoy instant response.”
And exactly, that’s what we experienced as we popped in at the annual and international Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City. We took hour-30m as traffic was less, suffice to state the cows and sheeps going astray on the Brits route; causing almost mayhem thanks to this beau, as blistering sound caught attention of ‘ululators’ and whistle blowers. Stru…
With hail stopping the Golf in late afternoon, I was damn worried about the impact or damage it would cause to my borrowed ‘beau’ but we found it in good condition since parking is a nightmare at Sun City during NGC.
We clogged 100km/h in 8.5 seconds and continued on to 210km/h. But it also impresses with great elasticity: it makes the transition from 80 to 120km/h in fifth gear in just 7.9 seconds. It’s a fact.
How could I omit to mention the strikingly awesome Recaro leather seats? Like it or not, this is going to be one of many factors -current car owners- are goin’ to go for. I declare.
“The Adam range brought a new level of sophistication and technology to the micro-hatch marketplace,” says the flamboyant Olson.
Yes, blessers get this ‘beau’ for your side dish, if you happen to have one. It’s festive season after-all or kanjani?
Adam S comes with a standard five-year or 120 000km warranty, roadside assistance, and three years or 60 000km service plan.
Price tag R330 000.
Verdict:
1-10 (Performance) 6
1-10 (Petrol) 5
