The new Meriva - more sophisticated, efficient and functional than ever

Ever since its first appearance in 2003, the Opel Meriva has been the star and benchmark amongst small sized MPVs. The second generation raised the standard with innovative features such as its rear-hinged FlexDoors, flexible seating, relaxed posture seating and many clever storage solutions. Following a tall order, Opel now presents the new Meriva - more sophisticated, efficient and functional than ever.

The new Opel Meriva receives a new front fascia that is clearly inspired by the new Opel Insignia with an elegant, chromed out front grille complementing the LED daytime running lights and rear lamps.

The new Meriva features Opel's new generation diesel powertrain, the 1.6-litre CDTI, which also recently made its debut in the Zafira Tourer. The all-aluminium power unit is rated at 136bhp and delivers 320Nm of torque while sipping just 22.7km/L of fuel and emitting 116g of CO₂/km. The new Meriva reaches 100km/h in a rather brisk 9.1 seconds.

In addition to the 1.6-litre diesel, all petrol engines and the LPG variant in the new Meriva already comply with the future, strict Euro 6 emissions limits. The 1.4-litre petrol engine (rated at either 120bhp or 140bhp) are now available in combination with a reworked low-friction six-speed automatic transmission. The five and six-speed manual gearboxes, offer more precise shifting, with smooth operation and minimal effort.

The Meriva also receives a new IntelliLink infotainment system with embedded, fast and user-friendly navigation and voice control. The large, high-definition, 7.0-inch colour monitor offers great readability and easy operation.

In 2010, independent health experts from the Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.(AGR), the 'Campaign for healthy backs', awarded the Meriva for guaranteeing ergonomics and back protection - based on the Meriva's FlexSpace seating concept, the FlexDoors system as well as its ergonomic front seats and its unique Flex-Fix integrated bicycle carrier, making the Meriva the first and only automobile to be awarded for its comprehensive ergonomic concept.

The new Meriva benefits from a redesigned multifunctional FlexRail central console and increased rear passenger legroom in the central seat, thanks to shorter rails.