Meriva is all about being 'Flexible'.
FlexDoors®, FlexSpace®, FlexRail® and FlexFix® are just some of the names given by Opel to Meriva's many party tricks. The versatile Mini-MPV features a host of well thought-out storage and seating solutions in a five-seat car that starts at just under €20,000.
Now in its second generation, the most obvious change is the rear doors that now open backwards. The hinges aren't mounted conventionally on the 'B' pillar but on the 'C' pillar. The rear doors open to almost 90 degrees and this makes access very good, but it has to be said they're still not as good as sliding side doors that need even less space to open. Opel says this method of door opening gives parents greater control over their rear passengers, and I have to agree. Above 4km/h the car doors lock automatically. Green illumination around the interior handle indicates when the doors can be opened. Unlike the Mazda RX-8 or even the MINI Clubman (and its one rear side door), Meriva's rear doors can open independently of the front doors.
In the rear there are three seats (the outer two can slide independently), but the best way to configure a Meriva continues to be as a four-seater. As with the original Meriva, you can fold the centre seat away and slide the two outer seats in slightly to give two rear passengers excellent room.
Outside, new Meriva has a far more curvy and substantial looking body than the rather slab-sided Mark1. Creases and curves from the Insignia and Astra are present to add a layer of sophistication to what was a functional exterior. You can see homage paid to the five-seat C4 Picasso along the window line and, in common with the Citroen, Meriva's all round visibility is excellent.
Inside, the cabin is airy and overall Meriva feels more substantial than its price tag suggests. The cabin is clever; for example you can specify a massive centre rail that houses a huge and versatile storage box/armrest (SC & SE models). The boot is big, too, with an adjustable floor and, of course, flat-folding rear seats. There is even a neat stowing area for the parcel shelf! When configured like a van, there are a massive 1500 litres of space in the back. There are 32 storage cubbies and the option of a FlexFix® bicycle carrier (first seen in the last generation Corsa).
Under the bonnet there is a choice of three VVT 1.4-litre petrol engines with power outputs of 100bhp, 120bhp and 140bhp and four diesels (2 X 1.3 and 2 X 1.7) with power outputs of 75bhp, 95bhp, 100bhp and 130bhp - the engine range is Euro5 compliant.
On the road Meriva is competent but hardly thrilling. My turbo-charged, 1.4-litre petrol test car should have been more encouraging but I found it very easy to restrain myself from enthusiastic driving or from taking the twisty route home.
Meriva features a host of driver aids that should help in tricky situations like ESP®Plus and Cornering Brake Control (CBC). Trim levels start with 'S'; next is 'SC' and 'SE' is the top specification. Automatic is available on the 1.7 CDTi.
Again, Meriva is another family car that should have Bluetooth phone connectivity as standard but doesn't - it's a €375.11 option!
Michael Sheridan
