Holden Viva To Return? Opel Teases New Karl Light Hatch

GM’s German subsidiary Opel has rolled out an early teaser of what could be Australia’s next Barina Spark hatch. But, in Germany, it will be known as ‘Karl’.

The tiny hatch will be the second new Opel to carry a human name, with the launch last year of the Adam honouring company founder Adam Opel.

If you were to guess that the Karl’s name might pay homage to a person of historical relevance to the Opel brand, you’d be right.

While the Karl will revive the Viva name in the UK’s Vauxhall range, Opel will instead honour its founder’s first son, Carl.

“Karl is a short, snappy and catchy name that represents Opel brand values: German, emotional and approachable,” Opel marketing boss Tina Müller said.

It is perhaps also the most viable name of Opel’s five sons, the other four being named Wilhelm, Heinrich, Friedrich, and Ludwig.