Opel to Produce Meriva in Russia

Taking advantage of the fact that it is still owned by American automotive giant GM, Opel is now looking to expand the number of assembly lines that produce the Meriva, and consequently the markets for the model, by manufacturing the model in Russia starting this May.

According to a report by Inside Line, GM will be using its partnership with Russia company Avtotor to manufacture the model locally. The target production figures were not announced by the insiders talking to the source.

The Meriva, which was introduced in the current form and shape at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, will be sold in Russia in three trim levels, Essentia, Enjoy and Cosmo, for prices ranging from $19,600 for the Essentia to $24,300 for the Cosmo.

Essentia will offer features like heated power exterior mirrors, FlexFloor (the floor can be raised to bumper height for ease of loading and under-floor stowage), a seat height adjuster for the driver as well as a height and reach-adjustable steering column.

The Enjoy trim will add level AC, FlexRail storage system between the front seats that features a tray with cup holder and side and curtain head airbags. The top of the range Cosmo will feature front and rear power windows, front fog lamps, a board computer, cruise control, a leather steering wheel with controls, the flexible front armrest from the FlexRail system as well as 16-inch alloy wheels.

As for the engines, the model will pack all the latest power plants created by the German manufacturer, ranging from 75 hp to 140 hp in terms of power and from 1.4l to 1.7l in terms of displacement.