16.3.2006
Meriva convinces in 100,000 kilometer endurance test

The Opel Meriva showed its qualities in an endurance test conducted by the influential Germany motoring magazine, "auto, motor und sport". The Meriva was close taking the top spot.

The testers drove the Meriva for more than 102,000 kilometers. "auto, motor und sport" was impressed with the reliability of the Meriva. It was only after 82,749 kilometers that the Meriva had to be taken to a dealer to have the A/C compressor replaced. Unfortunately, the battery broke down and had to be replace after more than 84,000 kilometers. Without this defect, the Meriva would have reach the top spot in the van ranking. In the end, the Meriva ranked on the good sixth position.

What "auto, motor und sport" liked about the Meriva:
good suspension
safe driving dynamics
precise and agile handling
high elasticity
solid workmanship
reasonable fuel consumption
variable seat concept
spacious interior
easy operability
efficient air conditioning
bright Xenon lights
long service intervals

What "auto, motor und sport" didn't like so much:
poor overseeability to back
noisy engine in high speed range
short seats in front
imprecise fuel gage
unpractical optional center armrest

The 2005 satisfaction survey conducted by "auto, motor und sport" and its sister publication, "Auto/Strassenverkehr", confirmed these positive results. Meriva owners gave their cars high marks for interior space, attractive design, reliability and good workmanship as well as for riding comfort, driving qualities, handling, purchase price and extensive standard equipment. They were less positive on low resale price, ventilation system and high maintenance costs.