Second-Hand Vauxhall Meriva
Used Vauxhall Meriva
Broadly based on the Corsa, the mini-MPV Vauxhall Meriva was first launched in 2003. There were four petrol engines and a diesel at launch and four trim levels. A facelift in 2006 made some minor cosmetic changes and added a couple more engines. A completely new Vauxhall Meriva launched in 2010 with rear-hinged back doors for easier access. The choices were a 1.4 petrol or 1.3 and 1.7-litre diesels with a variety of turbo options. These cars have a classier cabin too and feel a cut above the older models.
What You Get
Early Vauxhall Merivas come with a choice of 1.6 (in 8v and 16v forms) and 1.8-litre petrol engines and a 1.7-litre CDTi diesel. Trim levels were the Expression, Life, Enjoy and Design. The 2006 changes introduced a new Twinport 1.6 petrol and a 1.3 diesel. In the same year a sporty VXR model was added to the range powered by a 1.6-litre turbo delivering 180bhp. The used Vauxhall Meriva is basically a five-door, five-seat hatchback, but thanks to its clever FlexSpace system you can fold the centre rear seat to leave the passengers either side more room. It's also possible to fold all the passenger seats flat to leave a whopping 1,300 litres of load space. Twin electric sunroofs add an airy feel to the interior on more expensive models.
How it Drives
Most cars will have the 1.6 petrol engine. It's better to go for a 16v version if you can, not only are these quicker but they'll give you better MPG too. The 1.8 is comfortably the quickest, it's no road burner but it will do 0-60 in 10.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 118mph. The 1.7 diesel will get you to 60 in 13.4 seconds, but the other side of the coin is that it's more flexible with better pulling power and it will return close to 50mpg. Handling is tidy and the car is pleasant to drive around town. Post 2010 models have a longer wheelbase and wider track, so they feel more planted on the road.