Supercharging compacts

WE'RE used to turbochargers assisting our diesel engines but they're increasingly being found in petrol cars too. And not just high performance models. By using a turbo, modern petrol engines can replicate the power of a far larger unit while controlling fuel consumption and emissions. It's an attractive combination, especially in compact cars were the price premiums attached to diesel engines are more keenly felt. Vauxhall is one of the manufacturers embracing the turbocharger but h
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Aug 2010, 19:26 BST
Updated 18th Aug 2010, 10:42 BST

The original Meriva was one of the first entrants into a niche in the market that would become known as the supermini MPV sector. It basically amounted to a Corsa supermini with extra interior space and practicality courtesy of a taller shape and Vauxhall’s clever FlexSpace seating system. Many of the cars that Meriva counted as its rivals were based on van platforms and while the Vauxhall represented a more sophisticated option than these, it still kept things relatively simple with a firm emphasis on affordability. Since that time, the supermini MPVs have evolved. Models like the Nissan Note and Citroen C3 Picasso have taken things in a more technologically advanced and style-conscious direction. The latest Meriva follows in those themes.

Three versions of Vauxhall’s 1.4-litre VVT petrol engine are available with the Meriva but only two are assisted by turbochargers. The 1.4-litre VVT Turbo engines come in 118bhp or 138bhp states of tune, both achieving fairly lively levels of performance. The two engines produce their peak torque from under 2,000rpm and keep it available almost until the engine reaches 5,000rpm. It makes for a strong pull through the part of the rev range where we spend most of out time in everyday driving.

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The 138bhp engine feels particularly lively through the gears but it is possible to get caught out at lower revs before the turbo has got into its stride forcing you to snatch a lower gear quickly to maintain progress. Refinement is pretty good with the engine staying hushed at low speeds before taking on a tuneful zing as the revs rise, only close to the limiter does the sound get slightly harsh.

Small, practical cars tend to work quite well with diesel engines but petrol is making a comeback with the help of our old friend the turbocharger. Modern turbos are aids to efficiency as well as performance because they allow smaller capacity engines to be used and Vauxhall’s 1.4 VVT Turbo Meriva really can give the diesel alternatives a run for their money. Fuel economy may be less impressive but lower upfront costs and lively performance make this engine an attractive choice in Vauxhall’s supermini MPV.

The Meriva’s pricing looks to be on the high side compared to supermini MPV rivals but it’s a sizable and sophisticated car with those novel rear doors giving it a unique appeal. While it isn’t the most thrilling vehicle to drive, its safe, predictable handling should go down well with the target market and the cabin is well thought-out with strong build quality in evidence. Vauxhall has considerable success with the original Meriva and this one is well capable of continuing in that vein.

Related topics:Vauxhall