Vauxhall Meriva (03-10) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
Last Updated: 12 August 2008
The Meriva is a small people carrier that's a cheaper alternative to the likes of the Nissan Note with a practical interior and plenty of cabin space. Its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre around town but while the tall shape means there's good headroom, the boxy profile is quite ungainly and the Meriva isn't particularly stylish. It's comfortable to drive though (albeit dull) but unfortunately the interior looks and feels dated and there are too many scratchy plastics on show - plus the button layout on the central console is haphazard. The range was given a light facelift in 2006 (look for the newly added chrome strip across the rear tailgate to identify a facelifted car) but this can't prevent the Meriva from feeling old hat.
3 out of 5

Other Vauxhall reviews

3.5 out of 5

Buying used

The Meriva isn't as common as the larger Zafira so it may take a little longer to find the right car. Avoid the entry-level Expression model unless you're on a particularly strict budget and be aware that even Life models don't come with air conditioning as standard. There are plenty of special edition models which are worth looking out for while the 1.6-litre Twinport engine is a good choice if you can't find a diesel.

  • Boot/Load Space Vauxhall Meriva (03-10)
  • Interior Vauxhall Meriva (03-10)

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See 465 used Vauxhall Merivas for sale, starting at £1,495

2.5 out of 5

Selling

The Meriva is a small people carrier - a niche that hasn't really caught on. Rivals like the Nissan Note are more stylish so it may take a while to sell but a well-cared for example should get a decent price. Be sure to emphasise the flexibility of the rear seats to any potential buyer.