VAUXHALL Meriva 2014-2017

When Vauxhall Meriva was launched in 2003, the small MPV was the only vehicle in that car-segment. It re-opened that car category.

After the successful Vauxhall Zafira compact MPV, with seating for up to seven passengers, the car-maker tried a smaller vehicle: the Meriva. It was based on the small Vauxhall Corsa. With a raised greenhouse, it could carry up to five people inside, along with their luggage. The first generation was sold in more than 115.000 units in the U.K., and more than one million in the European version, Opel Meriva.

The second generation was also based on a modified Corsa platform, with bigger wheelbase and parts taken from the bigger models such as the Vauxhall Astra and Insignia and, in 2014, the car received a refreshed version, with up-to-date engines according to the Euro 6 pollution norms. The car featured LED daytime running lights and rear LED taillights. It also introduced 18” light-alloy wheels, which were very rare in the segment.

Inside, the rear passengers could get in and out easier than in the vehicles with normal opening doors, and, on top of that, the car featured a grab handle on the B-pillar to help. Another advantage of the rear-hinged doors is the easy fitting of a child seat in the back and also strapping the safety belt on it. For the top version, the Meriva came equipped with a glass ceiling.

The new engine range featured three power versions for a 1.4-liter gasoline unit and a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel with three versions for power. The standard transmission was a 5 or 6 gears manual, depending on the engine, while a 6-speed automatic was available at extra cost.