The new Opel Meriva was presented to members of the press recently by Cars International at the Portomaso Marina.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Ryan Buttigieg, general manager, said that the new Meriva offers design and technology refinements where “flexibility meets ergonomic design; coolness meets functionality; elegance meets efficiency.

Opel created a new market segment for small, affordable monocabs when it launched the first generation Meriva in 2003. With its versatile FlexSpace rear-seating system, high seating position and roomy cabin, it consistently led the segment during its lifecycle, Mr Buttigieg said.

Designed and developed in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the second-generation Meriva translates Opel’s new design language into a dynamic and elegant, yet small monocab. Moreover it takes affordable, onboard flexibility to a new level of functionality, ergonomics and appeal, he added

On the exterior, it introduces FlexDoors, an innovative rear-hinged rear door system that highly facilitates cabin access. Inside, the biggest changes are ground-breaking, with upscale styling, innovative versatility and class-leading emphasis on wellness.

A lower, sweeping roof-line and Opel’s signature blade side-body motif combine with a wave rear window line to give the new Meriva a fresh, distinctive character. It also improves the visibility for rear passengers, particularly children.

Standard active safety features include a braking system with four discs, electronic stability control and traction control.

The engine line up offered on the local public will include a 1.4 naturally aspirated 100 bhp petrol, a 1.4 turbo charged 120 bhp petrol and an all-new 1.3 CDTi ecoFLEX diesel engine which requires 4.5 l/100 km and emits 119 g/km CO2.

The New Opel Meriva starts from €18,900. Cars International also launched the Opel five-year warranty programme.