Vauxhall Junior new city car to rival MINI and Fiat 500

Although the name Junior isn't official, according to a report by Autocar in the UK, the pint-sized Vauxhall will measure just 3.7 metres in length, which is about the same length as a MINI Cooper. It will come in a three-door layout providing practical seating for four adults. It's also believed it will provide more interior room than what's on offer in the Fiat 500.

The Vauxhall Junior will come with a funky new design, created in-house at the Vauxhall/Opel design studio in Russelsheim, Germany. It's believed it will showcase elements of the Audi A1 as well as plenty of curves and contours you'd expect of a chic modern hatch. The interior will offer a similarly cute and friendly appeal, and will apparently come in a versatile range of colours and options, much like the MINI and Fiat 500.

According to reports, the Junior will come with a range engines. There will be a selection of petrol and diesel three-cylinder engines, including the possibility of a sportier unit. An electric version is also said to be on the cards for further down the line.

As far as release dates go, Vauxhall hasn't revealed any mention of an official date but sometime before 2013 is likely. More details are expected to be released at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show next month. We'll keep you updated.