Especificaciones y análisis del Opel Meriva
Power
125HP
Torque
165Nm
Consumption
7.8l/100
Emissions
187g/km
0-100 km/h
12.3s
Top Speed
190km/h
Weight
-kg
Price
15,230€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Automático 5v
FWD
5 / 5 doors
360 L
53 L
92 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Opel Meriva Essentia 1.8 XE Aut. · 125 CV (2006)
General description
The 2006 Opel Meriva, in its Essentia 1.8 XE Aut. version, is presented as a compact minivan designed for family life. With its 4.05 meters in length, it offers a balance between exterior size and interior habitability, aiming to be a practical ally in everyday life. Its 1.8-liter, 125 hp gasoline engine, coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission, promises comfortable and smooth driving, ideal for those seeking functionality and ease of handling in urban environments and on interurban journeys.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel of the Meriva, the predominant feeling is one of comfort and ease. The electric power steering facilitates maneuvers in the city, while the suspension, McPherson type at the front and trailing arm with torsional element at the rear, effectively filters out road irregularities, providing a smooth ride for all occupants. The 125 hp engine, although not an abundance of power, more than adequately moves the vehicle with agility, especially in daily traffic. The 5-speed automatic gearbox contributes to a relaxed driving experience, without the need for constant gear changes. However, in more demanding accelerations, such as overtaking on the highway, a more forceful response might be missed, with a 0 to 100 km/h in 12.3 seconds. The combined consumption of 7.8 l/100km is reasonable for its time and type of vehicle, although in the city it can rise to 10.7 l/100km. Visibility is good thanks to its minivan design, which provides safety and confidence to the driver.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the 2006 Opel Meriva is functional and practical, with soft lines and a silhouette that prioritizes interior space. Its front features the characteristic Opel traits of the era, with large headlights and a discreet grille. The five doors facilitate access to the cabin, and its height of 1.62 meters contributes to a feeling of spaciousness. The 15-inch wheels with 185/60 R15 H tires are suitable for comfort and stability. The interior, although sober, is well organized, with durable materials and an ergonomic design that places controls within reach of the driver. The 360-liter trunk capacity is generous for its segment, and the versatility of the seats allows this space to be expanded when necessary, making the Meriva a very adaptable car to different loading needs.
Technology and features
In the technological section, the 2006 Opel Meriva, in its Essentia version, focuses on the essential and functional. It incorporates a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with indirect injection and variable intake, a proven technology that seeks to optimize performance and efficiency. The 5-speed automatic transmission offers comfortable driving, albeit without the sophistication of modern gearboxes. Electric power steering is a plus, facilitating maneuverability. In terms of safety, it has ventilated front disc brakes and rear discs, providing adequate braking capacity. Although it does not have the latest driving aids found in current vehicles, its basic equipment meets the expectations of a car in its segment and year, prioritizing reliability and ease of use.
Competition
In the compact minivan market of 2006, the Opel Meriva competed with models such as the Renault Modus, the Citroën C3 Picasso (although this arrived a little later), the Fiat Idea, or the Ford Fusion. Compared to them, the Meriva stood out for its overall balance, its habitability, and the robustness of its mechanics. Its 125 hp engine placed it in an intermediate position in terms of performance, offering a good balance between power and consumption for its segment. The automatic transmission was a plus for those looking for a more relaxed drive, differentiating it from some rivals that mainly offered manual gearboxes or less refined automatics. Its design, although not risky, was practical and timeless, which allowed it to maintain its appeal over time.
Conclusion
The 2006 Opel Meriva Essentia 1.8 XE Aut. is a vehicle that fulfills its purpose of being a compact, practical, and comfortable minivan for the family. Its 125 hp engine and automatic transmission offer a smooth and uncomplicated driving experience, ideal for everyday use. Although it is not a car that stands out for its sporty performance or avant-garde design, its functionality, interior space, and ease of handling make it a sensible option for those looking for a reliable and versatile companion. It is an honest car, offering what it promises, without great luxuries but with the solidity and practicality expected of an Opel of that era. Its consumption is reasonable and its maintenance predictable, which makes it an interesting option in the second-hand market for those who value reliability and space.