The Opel Meriva A, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2006, represented Opel’s entry into the compact minivan segment. Production of the 1.4 LPG (90 hp) ecoFLEX variant spanned from July 2009 to February 2010. This model aimed to provide an economical and practical transportation solution, leveraging the growing interest in alternative fuels like Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). It was positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering within the Meriva A lineup, appealing to budget-conscious families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle. The Meriva A itself was built on the GM Delta platform (1HX0/A3), shared with other models like the Opel Astra and Zafira, providing a foundation of proven technology and reliability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Meriva |
| Generation | Meriva A (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 LPG (90 Hp) ecoFLEX |
| Start of production | July, 2009 |
| End of production | February, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (LPG) | 8.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp, 71.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.1 kg/Nm, 99.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4000 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z14XEP |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.6 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1410 l (49.79 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4052 mm (159.53 in.) |
| Width | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Height | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2630 mm (103.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1449 mm (57.05 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Meriva variant is the Z14XEP engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of Opel’s ‘Family 1’ engine family, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. The Z14XEP features multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s 90 horsepower output at 5600 rpm and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm are modest, but sufficient for everyday driving. The ‘ecoFLEX’ designation indicates that this version incorporated specific modifications to enhance fuel economy, such as optimized engine management and reduced rolling resistance tires. The engine was designed to run on both gasoline and LPG, with the LPG system installed as factory equipment. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel efficiency. While an automatic transmission was available on other Meriva A models, it wasn’t offered with the 1.4 LPG engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 LPG 90 hp Meriva A offers a driving experience geared towards practicality and economy rather than performance. Acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 13.8 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine feels strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.7 CDTI diesel or the 1.8-liter gasoline versions, the LPG model feels significantly slower. However, the LPG system provides a noticeable cost saving at the pump, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well, but it’s not particularly sporty. Steering is light and easy, making it well-suited for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX Meriva A typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, front airbags, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but unpretentious design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio systems. The Meriva A’s key selling point was its spacious interior and versatile seating arrangements. The rear seats could be folded down or even removed completely, creating a large cargo area. The ‘ecoFLEX’ trim also included specific aerodynamic enhancements to improve fuel efficiency.
Chassis & Braking
The Meriva A’s chassis utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering is a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The 175/70 R14 tires offer adequate grip for everyday driving conditions. The relatively lightweight construction of the Meriva A helps to offset the modest engine power, resulting in acceptable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Meriva A 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family vehicle. Its low running costs, thanks to the LPG system, were a major selling point. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming. Compared to the diesel versions, the LPG model offered lower torque and slower acceleration. However, it was quieter and smoother than the diesel, and it produced fewer emissions. Against the gasoline-powered Merivas, the LPG version offered a significant fuel cost advantage, but at the expense of some performance. The Meriva A competed with other compact minivans such as the Renault Modus and Fiat Idea.
Legacy
The Opel Meriva A 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX powertrain has proven to be reasonably reliable over the long term. The Z14XEP engine is known for its durability, and the LPG system, when properly maintained, can add many years of service. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical and economical vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the need for regular LPG system servicing to ensure optimal performance and safety. The Meriva A, in general, helped establish Opel as a key player in the compact minivan segment, paving the way for the more modern Meriva B.
