Spied

29th December 2008

HERE are the pictures that prove Vauxhall’s new Meriva is a real smasher!

These spy shots show the aftermath of a controlled side impact test of the forthcoming supermini-MPV. And the little people carrier’s star feature – its rear-hinged back doors – have stood up well to the impact!

Set to debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the new Meriva will shake up the class with a stylish shape which has changed little from the 2008 Geneva Motor Show concept.
The doors are similar to those on the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Mazda RX-8, and are hinged at the rear to allow superb access to the back seats.

In addition, the Meriva will boast a flexible interior with a sliding rear bench seat. And it’s also set to continue the big leaps in cabin quality Vauxhall made with the Insignia. Add in a sleek shape that’s inspired by the Flextreme show car – seen at Frankfurt in 2007 – and it’s sure to turn heads.

As well as conventional petrol and diesel power, there will be an ecoFLEX variant emitting less than 120g/km. And a turbo VXR model is set to top the range.

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