The equipment levels are good, too; top of the range SE model features a full length glass roof and electric rear windows as standard, while all models get an electric handbrake.
That gives more room for Vauxhall's new FlexRail system between the front seats. Two rails can accept a number of storage compartments to complement the two healthy door pockets. The units are interchangeable and can slide backwards and forwards. For lower spec models with no FlexRail cubby holes as standard bags, toys, briefcases or any other family accruements can be dropped into the gap.
The downside is that the rails extend into the rear of the cabin, limiting legroom and foot space for the central seat occupant.
The Meriva is massively practical, it's a much larger vehicle than of old and although it lacks the extra row of seats feels as though it could bother the larger Zafira for space.
Headroom is excellent with the flexible rear seating giving a number of options for legroom and shoulder space while also maximising the potential of the well proportioned boot.
Despite the all the improvements, the rear door arrangement still remain the unique selling point of the Meriva. The 'FlexDoor' arrangement makes perfect sense, with the doors opening through to 84 degrees - pausing at various increments in the process giving accessibility even though the B-pillar remains, and families will find it to be much more than gimmick or novelty.
Economy and safety
Until the EcoFlex variant arrives the entry 74hp 1.3 CDTI model is the most economical in the line-up with 129g/km CO2 emissions and combined consumption of 57.6mpg.
Those seeking the additional performance needn't be disheartened, however; the downsizing approach has reaped rewards with none of the engines dropping below 40mpg on the combined cycle and even the more powerful petrol units trumping the 1.7-litre CDTI in the CO2 emissions stakes.
The 118hp 1.4-litre petrol appears to make the most sense with additional performance but economy and emissions virtually identical to the entry level petrol.
ESC is standard across the range. Anti-rollover protection is also standard and systems such as tyre pressure monitoring are optional.
Vauxhall have developed the FlexDoor system to a very high standard and although the rear doors can be opened independently of the front ones, they are automatically locked down above 2mph. Red or green lights in the rear door handles indicate whether the rear of the car are locked or not.
The chunky B-pillar in place makes a big difference to rigidity and side impact protection, too.
Vauxhall have a winner in the Meriva, it has been vastly improved in nearly all the areas where it matter, the 'FlexDoor' arrangement adds to the practicality. The Meriva has raised the game. Five stars
Tech Spec
Engines - Petrol 1.4, 1.4 turbo (118hp), 1.4 turbo (138hp)
Engines - Diesel 1.3 CDTI turbo, 1.7 CDTI turbo
Power (hp) 74-138
Torque (lb ft) 96-192
0-62mph (secs) 10.3-16.9
Top speed (mph) 99-122
Economy (mpg) 42.2-57.6
CO2/Tax (g/km/%) 129-168/17-25
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