The Opel Meriva B, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2014, represented a significant evolution of Opel’s compact MPV offering. The 1.4 Turbo Ecotec Start/Stop variant, producing 120 horsepower, was a key model within the range, positioned as a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and reasonable performance. Production of this specific configuration ran from January 2014 to January 2017. It was designed to appeal to families seeking a practical and versatile vehicle for everyday use, primarily targeting the European market where the Meriva competed with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Meriva |
| Generation | Meriva B (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (120 Hp) Turbo Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | January, 2014 |
| End of production | January, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4800-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1750-4800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B14NEL |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm (2.85 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Length | 4300 mm (169.29 in.) |
| Width | 1912 mm (75.28 in.) |
| Height | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2644 mm (104.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1509 mm (59.41 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.06 m (36.29 ft.) |
| 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 | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Meriva variant is the B14NEL 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s ‘Ecotec’ family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain contributes to efficient cylinder filling and exhaust scavenging. The Start/Stop system, standard on this model, further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 120 horsepower and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque are delivered across a relatively broad rev range, making it reasonably flexible for everyday driving. This engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 Turbo Ecotec with the five-speed manual transmission provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 116.82 mph. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but it’s not a particularly aggressive setup. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel a little strained when climbing hills or overtaking at higher speeds. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, the 1.4 Turbo offers more torque at lower RPMs, making it feel more responsive in city driving. However, it lacks the overall punch of the larger engine. The manual transmission is generally smooth and precise, although the shift linkage isn’t particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Ecotec Start/Stop typically came equipped as a mid-range trim level. Standard features included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features like ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were also standard. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional dashboard layout. The Meriva B was known for its flexible seating arrangement, with sliding rear seats and a ‘FlexSpace’ system that allowed for a variety of cargo configurations.
Chassis & Braking
The Meriva B utilizes a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an elastic beam rear suspension. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporates a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 Turbo Ecotec variant of the Meriva B was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a little underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Compared to the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, the 1.4 Turbo offered better fuel economy and slightly more torque, but at a higher initial cost. The 1.7-liter diesel variant offered even better fuel economy but came with a higher price tag and a different driving experience. The Meriva B, in general, was considered a strong competitor in the compact MPV segment, offering a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and value.
Legacy
The B14NEL engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. Common issues are typically related to the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally not major concerns if the engine has been properly maintained. On the used car market, the 1.4 Turbo Ecotec Meriva B represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and affordable MPV. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. The Meriva B, as a whole, established Opel as a strong player in the European compact MPV market, and its flexible interior and comfortable ride continue to appeal to buyers today.
