CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £4,000

Vauxhall Meriva (2010-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Fantastically flexible	Rather dull to drive
Innovative rear-hinged rear doors	Entry-level cars are poorly equipped and underpowered
Economical diesel engines	Not the most stylish car to look at

Quick Summary

The Vauxhall Meriva (2010-2017) is a compact multi-purpose vehicle that prioritises practicality above all else. This second-generation model shares much with the Vauxhall Corsa but pairs the compact size of a small hatchback with a taller body and exceptionally flexible interior. Every version features FlexDoors with rear-hinged rear doors that open particularly wide, making it remarkably easy to access the cabin and fit child seats. The FlexSpace seating system allows outer rear seats to move backwards, forwards, or diagonally inwards, enabling two-, three-, four- and five-seat configurations with a generous 397-litre boot.

The Meriva is straightforward to drive with light, responsive controls and predictable handling, though some engines lack power. It's roomy enough for four adults with refined, supportive seats and achieved a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. Running costs are low, particularly with the economical 1.6-litre CDTi diesel achieving around 50-55mpg in real-world driving. Petrol engines average 42-46mpg depending on specification. All versions have a service interval of one year or 20,000 miles, with most featuring timing chains for reduced maintenance costs. As a used car, it represents excellent value for those seeking a practical alternative to standard family hatchbacks.

Best for: Families prioritising practicality and flexibility, those needing easy access and child seat installation, and budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious compact MPV.

Not ideal for: Drivers seeking an engaging driving experience, those wanting entry-level models with good equipment, or buyers prioritising stylish design.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Meriva if: You're seeking a practical, flexible compact MPV for families, prioritising easy access and child seat installation, or looking for excellent value on a budget.

Consider alternatives if: You want an engaging driving experience, require well-equipped entry-level models, or prioritise stylish design and modern features.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall Meriva (2010-2017) is a strong contender in the compact MPV market, offering exceptional practicality and flexibility at an affordable price. Whilst the Ford B-Max scores higher on expert ratings and the BYD Seal U offers better value deals, the Meriva's innovative FlexDoors and FlexSpace seating system remain unmatched for accessibility and interior versatility. It's an excellent choice for families prioritising practicality over driving dynamics, delivering reliable, economical transport with low running costs and minimal maintenance requirements.

Read our full Vauxhall Meriva Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.