Opel has launched the second generation of the Meriva mini-MPV set to premiere March 4 at the Geneva Motor Show. The new car inherits Opel’s new styling language as seen on the Astra and Insignia but it also features a lot of practical innovations.

By far and away, the most interesting and important feature on the new Meriva are its rear doors which, as you can see below, open backwards. Half of the press release from GM is actually filled with stuff saying how the doors will radically change your life and how much of a technical revolution has been achieved. They are called FlexDoors and are rear-hinged to ease access to the cabin. A bold move from Opel nonetheless but I think it is a brilliant idea and it might just catch on. With kids or dogs to load that is a major help.

The whole car was constructed on the idea of maximum interior space for the least exterior size. As a result, the Opel-exclusive FlexFix system is also present on the car. It consists of a rear bicycle carrier that slides under the luggage compartment when not needed. Opel also fitted the Meriva with the FlexSpace rear-seating concept which is just a fancy name for a seat folding system, we suspect. As a result, this is a car with a lot of Flex.

The new car has a longer wheelbase to improve handling, ride confort and safety. It features Corsa, Astra and Zafira bits underneath. As a result we are now able to speak of hybrids even about car platforms. The Meriva will come with 6 turbocharged engines with power outputs ranging from 75 to 140 hp. Opel also lets you choose between 3 gearboxes: 5 and 6-speed manual transmissions as well as a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The car will be built in Spain and will go on sale in summer.

Source: General Motors