Bristol Street Motors is now Vertu!

Still the same great team and service - online, on the phone and in our dealerships.

We no longer support this web browser. Upgrade your browser for a better experience.

Loading...

  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...
  • Loading...

    Loading...

    Loading...

    • Loading...
    • Loading...

Used Vauxhall Meriva: Buyer's Guide


The Vauxhall Meriva commands respect as a competent and authoritative player in the compact MPV sector, inviting you into a world of clever comfort and thoughtful design. It wraps you in a cabin designed for real life, with innovative features like FlexDoors that make every journey a pleasure. With a flexible 1,500-litre load space and fuel economy up to 69 mpg, it delivers the rational proof points that budget-conscious buyers prioritise.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Popular Trims

  • * Life: The entry-level choice, offering essential features like electric front windows and remote central locking. It represents excellent value for money. Exclusiv: A comfortable mid-range choice with cruise control, air conditioning, and FlexRail storage. It sets the tone for a relaxed ownership experience. SE: The pinnacle of comfort, featuring alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, and ambient lighting for a premium feel.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options

  • * 1.4 Turbo Petrol: A smooth and quiet performer with 120hp or 140hp, perfect for zipping around town in comfort. It achieves around 35-40 mpg. 1.6 CDTi Diesel: The ""Whisper Diesel"" is the efficiency champion, delivering up to 69 mpg. It offers effortless cruising ability and impressive refinement. 1.7 CDTi Diesel: A robust option for earlier models, offering strong torque for towing or heavy loads.#

Running Costs:

  • Real-world MPG: Petrol models average 28-37 mpg, while diesels can achieve 45-69 mpg.

  • Tax: VED ranges from £150 to £315 per year depending on the specific engine and year.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Practicality

Practicality meets innovation in the Meriva's well-thought-out interior. FlexDoors: Unique rear-hinged doors open to nearly 90 degrees, creating a welcoming entry point for passengers of all ages. FlexSpace: Rear seats slide independently to prioritise legroom or boot space, or fold flat to create a massive 1,500-litre load area. Storage: FlexRail centre console offers adaptable storage for drinks, phones, and handbags.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Key Features

Key Features:

  • FlexDoors: Rear-hinged rear doors for easy access.

  • Panoramic Roof: Available on SE models, it floods the cabin with natural light.

  • Electric Parking Brake: Standard on many models, freeing up space for FlexRail storage.#

Desirable Options:

  • Winter Pack: Heated seats and steering wheel for those chilly mornings.

  • FlexFix Bike Carrier: Integrated bike rack that slides out from the rear bumper.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Reliability Rating

Built to last, the Meriva is a robust machine that is generally dependable. However, a few checks are worth making to ensure peace of mind.#

What to Check on a Test Drive:

  • Gearbox: Check the Easytronic automatic for smooth operation, as it can be jerky.

  • FlexDoors: Ensure the doors open and close smoothly and the safety locks engage.

  • Electronics: Test all electric windows and the electronic parking brake for correct function.


Used Vauxhall Meriva Safety Rating

Your safety is paramount in the Meriva, which is engineered to protect you and your family. Euro NCAP: Awarded 5 stars in 2010, with 89% adult occupant protection. Tech: Standard features include ESP stability control and six airbags on higher trims.


Awards for the Used Vauxhall Meriva

  • * 2010: Golden Steering Wheel Award. 2011: Design Award for FlexDoors concept.


Who is the Used Vauxhall Meriva Best For?

  • * Young Families: Easy access for child seats and plenty of storage. Older Drivers: High seating position and wide-opening doors ease entry and exit. Value Seekers: Practicality of a larger car with the running costs of a supermini.#

Key Alternatives to Consider:

  • Ford B-Max: Features sliding rear doors for similar accessibility.

  • Honda Jazz: Renowned for its ""Magic Seats"" and reliability.


Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Vauxhall Meriva


How do the rear doors open on the Vauxhall Meriva?

The second-generation Meriva features innovative FlexDoors that are rear-hinged for easier access. Opening Angle: The doors open to nearly 90 degrees, creating a wide entry point. Access: This design makes it significantly easier to install child seats or help passengers in and out. Safety: The doors lock automatically once the car is in motion for added security.

Is the Vauxhall Meriva easy to park in tight spaces?

The Meriva is designed to be manoeuvrable and easy to park in urban environments. Visibility: The high driving position offers a good view of the road ahead. Dimensions: With a length of 4,288mm and width of 1,812mm, it fits comfortably into standard bays. Assistance: Many models feature parking sensors to help guide you into spaces.

Can I fit three child seats in the Vauxhall Meriva?

The Meriva's flexible rear seating can accommodate child seats, though configuration depends on the specific seats used. ISOFIX: Two ISOFIX mounting points are standard on the outer rear seats for secure installation. FlexSpace: The rear seats can slide independently to adjust space between passengers. Access: The wide-opening FlexDoors make fitting seats and buckling children in much simpler.

What is the real-world fuel economy of the Vauxhall Meriva?

The Meriva offers a range of efficient engines designed to keep running costs low. Diesel Models: The 1.6 CDTi ""Whisper Diesel"" can achieve up to 69 mpg in real-world driving. Petrol Models: The 1.4 Turbo typically returns between 35 and 40 mpg in mixed conditions. EcoFLEX: Look for EcoFLEX models for the best fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.

Does the Vauxhall Meriva have Bluetooth for hands-free calling?

Bluetooth connectivity is available on many Meriva models, particularly from the second generation onwards. Standard Fit: Most later models (post-2010) feature Bluetooth as standard or part of a tech pack. Infotainment: Systems like the Navi 650 and Navi 950 include Bluetooth integration. Check: Verify the specific specification of used models, as early entry-level trims may not have it.

How comfortable is the Vauxhall Meriva for long journeys?

The Meriva is praised for its ride comfort and supportive seating on longer trips. Suspension: The setup effectively smooths out bumps and road imperfections. Refinement: The cabin is designed to be quiet, with reduced wind and road noise at motorway speeds. Seating: High-mounted front seats provide excellent support and a commanding view.

Is the Vauxhall Meriva cheap to insure for new drivers?

The Meriva sits in accessible insurance groups, making it a viable option for many drivers. Groups: Models range from insurance group 5 to 24, depending on engine and trim. Entry Models: Lower-powered petrol and diesel variants sit in the lowest groups (5-10). Cost: Lower groups generally translate to more affordable premiums for new or young drivers.

How does the FlexSpace seating system work in the Vauxhall Meriva?

The FlexSpace system allows you to configure the interior to suit your passenger and cargo needs. Sliding Seats: Rear seats slide forwards and backwards independently to prioritise legroom or boot space. Four-Seat Mode: The centre seat folds down, allowing the outer seats to slide inwards for more shoulder room. Flat Folding: All rear seats fold flat to create a cavernous 1,500-litre load area.

What maintenance costs should I expect with a used Vauxhall Meriva?

Maintenance costs for the Meriva are generally reasonable, with parts readily available. Servicing: Regular intervals are recommended to keep engines like the 1.4 Turbo running smoothly. Tyres: Standard tyre sises help keep replacement costs manageable. Checks: Ensure the electronic parking brake and air conditioning are checked during routine services.

Used Vauxhall cars and locations