Skip advert
Advertisement

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 2014 review

We try the facelifted Vauxhall Meriva with the 1.4 Turbo petrol engine

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Vauxhall Meriva
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The real star of the facelifted Meriva range is the new 1.6 CDTi, not the petrol engine in this 1.4 Turbo – and it’s more expensive to run than the diesel, without being much more refined or quicker. The Meriva is a comfortable and spacious family car with lots of clever touches, but we’d stick with the efficient diesel.

Advertisement - Article continues below

As far as Vauxhall Meriva reviews go, we've also given our verdict on the diesel 1.6 CDTi, but the facelifted range also includes a 1.4 Turbo model, which we’ve now tested in the UK.

While the diesel is all-new, this 1.4 Turbo is essentially the same engine as in the pre-facelifted range, albeit with tweaks to make it compliant with Euro VI emissions regulations.

Still, the 44.8mpg fuel economy looks a bit disappointing compared to the new diesel’s 64.2mpg. It feels – and sounds – a little rough low down in the rev range, and only once the engine is spinning a bit quicker does it smooth out before the turbo kicks in.

Vauxhall has introduced a new, more accurate-feeling six-speed gearbox. Other changes are limited – there’s a more upmarket look, a new Intellilink infotainment system (£1,200) and a few tweaks to the chassis.

The car feels safe in bends and a bit firm over bumps, but practicality is more important than handling here. The clever rear-hinged doors, flexible seats and 397-litre boot ensure the Meriva is as versatile as ever.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £3,331 off RRP*Used from £9,600
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,831 off RRP*Used from £15,519
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,911 off RRP*Used from £16,700
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £18,725Avg. savings £4,199 off RRP*Used from £15,337
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal
Volkswagen ID.3 Pure Match - front

New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal

The value-focused Volkswagen ID.3 Match performs well and is easy to live with
Road tests
28 Apr 2025