Opel Meriva

The Opel Meriva’s defining idea is a small family car arranged to make everyday access and cabin use easier than in a conventional hatchback. It is a compact MPV, with a taller body and a flexible interior aimed at families who need usable passenger space without moving to a large van. That shape gives occupants a more upright seating position and makes loading people or bags less awkward, though the taller cabin is not the same as a roomy large MPV. The Meriva is no longer a current new-car choice, so condition, age and maintenance matter much more than the model name alone when considering one used. It also trades the low, sporty feel of a small hatchback for a more practical layout. By our assessment, its appeal lies in packaging rather than performance or prestige. The particular car’s service history and wear determine how much that practical design is worth.