Used Opel cars by models

Based on the third generation Corsa the Meriva was Opel's first foray into the compact MPV market. Sales have been strong with over one million units sold. There currently exists two generations of the Meriva.

Meriva A (2002 - 2010):

The first generation Vauxhall Meriva came along in 2003 and was a large-scale commercial success. Its compact size made it an immediate hit, the competition being largely converted minivans rather than purpose built passenger vehicles. In addition, it boasted some very handy attributes such as a Flexspace rear seating system, this allowed the rear seats to slide in multiple directions creating numerous seating positions. The Flexspace system also allowed you to sink the seats into the floor creating a lot of extra storage space should it be needed. In short, the Meriva was one of the very first truly practical MPVs on the market.

The fact the Meriva is based on the hugely accomplished Corsa chassis gave it nice handling and a level of driver involvement not normally seen in this class. The engine range was broad with the initial release having 3 petrol powerplants and one diesel unit available. The somewhat limited diesel selection was remedied following a 2005 facelift that saw 1.3-litre and 1.7-litre units available. The 1.7 CDTi was the most popular engine giving a nice balance between power and cost efficiency.

Meriva B (2010 - present):

The first thing you notice about the second generation of the Meriva is its size. It's larger and heavier than the Meriva A though much of this extra weight is due less to the size increase than the extra technology and fixtures now available. The exterior styling was a marked improvement though it still retains a somewhat bulbous front.

The thoroughly revamped interior and higher equipment levels are a clear acknowledgment by Opel that the competition is now a lot stiffer for the MPV market. No longer are Opel competing against converted vans, many major manufacturers have released specifically designed passenger vehicles to compete with the Meriva and its original rival, the Citroen Berlingo. The trend in downsizing engine sizes has reached this generation with the petrol selection featuring only a 1.4-litre powerplant in two differing power outputs. Much more emphasis is placed on the diesel range with both the 1.3- and 1.7-litre units available with two outputs too.

Whilst the increased size does grab attention, the backward swinging rear doors offer some real novelty value. There's a point though, access to the rear seats is definitely improved. The dynamic seating theme present in the Meriva A is still there with some slight improvements meaning that the Opel is as practical as ever. Increased competition hasn't just led to some better external styling either; the cabin has certainly improved and you get a real quality feel in this generation. Technologically the Meriva is on a par with the competition but doesn't really attempt to outdo them.

Conclusion

The Meriva is still a class leader, short and simple. These days though there's some stiff competition and most would agree that the Ford B-Max is now the car to beat. The Meriva and Citroen Berlingo certainly round out the top 3 though and should be on the inspection list for any family look one looking into a compact MPV.

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