Opel Meriva Caught Testing

[FenwickHockey65]

http://www.leftlanenews.com/opel-meriva-concept.html

General Motors has begun testing prototypes of the next-generation Opel Meriva, which was previewed in concept form earlier this year. Recent rumors indicate GM is considering importing the new Meriva to the United States as a Saturn.

More pictures at the link.

[I-Love-Pontiac]

Pretty

[atomicshark]

The shape looks promising. I would love to see this as Saturn's answer to the Mazda5 and Kia's Rondo.

[lam]

Originally Posted by atomicshark

The shape looks promising. I would love to see this as Saturn's answer to the Mazda5 and Kia's Rondo.

No,this is smaller the the Zafira and Mazda 5.

[Ambalanche]

Originally Posted by atomicshark

The shape looks promising. I would love to see this as Saturn's answer to the Mazda5 and Kia's Rondo.

Sales weise, those are questions nobody asked, but I do see your point about a smaller car. GM needs to be careful they don't overload Saturn with models. Chevrolet has more than any other GM make and that's how it should be since they are GM's volume brand. GM needs to use the others as "specialty" brands not to compete with each other.

[tgagneguam]

Despite its relatively small size, it seems to really optimize passenger space. That, combined with a smaller engine (read: [hopefully] fuel efficient, low horsepower), would seem to make this a great city car.

I liked the concept's design, though I'm guessing certain styling elements (the intricate headlamps, the door handles, and the shape of the side glass(?)) will be toned down for production. That's understandable, but it certainly takes away from the concept's "cheekiness."

[packardlust]

This is a ultra cool looking vehicle packaged well. It is smaller than than the 1st generation Vue, and I think it would fit well in the Saturn Lineup. I believe there will be a lot of people out there looking for this size vehicle soon, who perceive the current Vue as too big/heavy, but would dig a stylish people hauler. From what I read, GM was looking at one possible configuration as a 4 bucket seater. I've wanted another 4 door vehicle with suicide doors since I sold my 39 Plymouth. This vehicle with the 1.6 DI Turbo, BAS+, and 6 speed auto (available with BAS+ according to GM) would be an unbeatable combo IMHO.

[prototype66]

An odd looking vehicle. Looks like a pregnant Fit.
or a new Aveo?????hmmmmmmmmm

[whp_001]

Isn't this the Global MPV7, the vehicle referred to in the GM-UAW contract as being slated for Hamtramck in 2009?

[crooner214]

I may be stirring the pot here, but what if this was sold as a GMC so the BPG channel could have a small people-mover? Chevy doesn't really need this, and Saturn really needs to be pushing the Astra.

[FierySolstice]

Nah I want the Corsa instead over here!

[Rocket 88]

Originally Posted by crooner214

I may be stirring the pot here, but what if this was sold as a GMC so the BPG channel could have a small people-mover? Chevy doesn't really need this, and Saturn really needs to be pushing the Astra.

I must respectfully disagree. GMC pushes its professional grade image and this seems small and lower end. Saturn does need to push the Astra, but this would be a good match as another Opel-Saturn-Vauxhall connection.

[PRO_USA1776]

I drove one in Germany in March. FIne at highspeeds but no acceleration!

[CharlotteFirebird]

Originally Posted by whp_001

Isn't this the Global MPV7, the vehicle referred to in the GM-UAW contract as being slated for Hamtramck in 2009?

Yes. I believe it is. I'm surprised someone didn't mention that earilier.

[Moses7]

Click here to see spy pictures that were taken yesterday in Germany