Fresh-faced Meriva on the way

Expect to see the new Opel Meriva during 2009, based on the design of the Meriva concept car shown at last year"s Geneva Motor Show. The new Opel will take its flexibility to new heights with its innovative FlexDoors system, which consists of rear-hinged rear doors that swing open towards the back of the car. As the B pillars of the car have been purposely retained for passive security reasons, the Meriva front and rear doors can also be opened independently of each other. Other rear-hinged rear doors already on the market can only be opened after the front door has been opened. This innovation makes access to the car interior much easier and also offers a range of safety benefits over conventional car doors. In the new Meriva, this new feature will be combined with the variable FlexSpace rear seating system familiar from the production Meriva. The FlexDoors system is also claimed to enhance comfort and functionality, as the highest point of the roof, just behind the B-pillars, is exactly where the passengers enter and exit the vehicle. This architecture enabled designers to create a very dynamic and unique silhouette, with the arched roof line sloping down to the C pillars. The new dynamic 'wave" design in the window line just behind the B pillars provides good all-round view for rear passengers, particularly for children. The body also boasts the distinctive 'blade" body side form, which was a design element of the GTC Coupé and Flextreme. Another feature of the new car will be the U-shaped windshield, which stretches up and back over the rear passengers" heads, echoing the Astra GTC"s panorama windshield. The slim A pillars and windshield pulled far down ensure plenty of light and a spacious interior atmosphere. Opel claims that both elements contribute to the outstanding all-round visibility for the occupants.