Opel's Meriva compact minivan is taking its next evolutionary step with a makeover for 2014 that includes a new face and an efficient new diesel engine.
Inspired by the latest Insignia sedan, the new frontal design gains extra bling in the form of a new grille with more chrome while the new 'eagle eye' headlights are available with LED daytime running lights. From the side view, a new chrome beltline accentuates the Meriva's 'waved' design while the rear end is freshened up by new LED taillights.
The Meriva's interior gains a new IntelliLink infotainment system, operated through a seven-inch colour monitor. The system also includes a rear-view camera.
The big news under the bonnet is the availability of Opel's new 1.6 CDTI turbodiesel motor that's said to be the quietest in its class. Of course, it has the all-important economy aspect taped too, with a claimed combined consumption figure of just 4.4 litres per 100km, equating to CO2 emissions of 116 g/km.
Replacing the previous 1.7-litre unit, the 1.6 offers 100kW and 320Nm from 2000rpm, allowing it to run from 0-100km/h in 9.1 seconds - 0.8 seconds quicker than before.
Furthermore, the 88kW and 103kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol engines (of which only the latter is available in SA) remain unchanged but are now available with a reworked low-friction six-speed automatic gearbox that's been upgraded to offer a smoother operation.
Expect to see the new Meriva on local shores during the first half of 2014.