Insurance Group: 16
MPG: 53.3
CO2: 139
0-62 Mph: 9.9 secs
BHP: 128 BHP
Range: 633 miles
PROS: Impressive power credentials transform this family vehicle into a competent car capable of commanding authority on the roads and remaining fairly efficient in terms of fuel consumption.
CONS: The additional power is reflected in the purchase price and insurance premiums, making this model a relatively steep investment.
The Meriva's 1.7-litre diesel engine produces 128 bhp at 4000 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 2000-2500 rpm. The top speed of 122 mph is impressive for a car of this type and a 0-62 mph time of just 9.9 seconds means that the Meriva feels relatively fast.
The ride is reasonably well refined with noise from the wind and road well insulated. The engine is always audible although never intrusively so.
The Meriva handles reasonably well for an MPV with sharp, quick steering and a comfortable ride thanks to soft suspension.
Standard kit includes power steering, central locking, stability control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and a built-in stereo with CD player and MP3 connectivity.
Air conditioning can be added for an extra £515 (£5 more than in the smaller diesel) whilst cruise control is available as a joint option with Bluetooth connectivity for £405. A built-in sat nav will cost buyers an additional £855 and rear parking sensors are £395. This means bringing the car up to speed could cost a significant amount of money and some buyers may find the fact that climate control and alloy wheels are not an option a disappointment.
The Meriva should be a very safe car with driver, passenger and front side airbags all included as standard. An immobiliser is also fitted to deter thieves and this model also receives an alarm as standard.
The dashboard is thoughtfully laid out and feels well made. The boot capacity is a decent 397 litres when the seats are all in place but can be expanded to 1,496 litres by folding down the seats.
Mechanical reliability should not be an issue but Vauxhall's reputation for reliability is not the best in the world and this should be taken into account before you purchase.
The Meriva S 1.7 CDTi (130ps) costs £18,980 which is relatively good value for money considering the amount of equipment included as standard.
However, insurance premiums jump and this powerful model is classed under insurance group 16 – ten groups higher than that of the less powerful diesel. Carbon emissions are also affected by the more powerful engine, rising from 129g/km to 138g/km and pushing this model into road tax band E.
This means that whilst this car is far from the least economical model on the road it could fall behind rivals for buyers who are not interested in high performance levels or hefty power outputs.
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