Vauxhall's latest addition to the VXR stable is the unique Meriva VXR, designed for the family man that always regretted selling that Golf GTi. Utilising 'FlexSpace' interior, it will now be possible to drop all the kids off at school, make it to the DIY store and burn off a few hot hatches on the way. Should spice up the journey nicely...
Thrust is generated by a new 180PS 1.6-litre engine and delivered to the front wheels via a close ratio six-speed 'box. This propels the world's first performance mini-MPV to 60mph in around eight seconds and keeps going up to a top speed of 140mph.
The VXR conversion doesn't stop under the bonnet; front and rear bumpers are re-profiled to match the rest of the range and the now familiar VXR six-spoke alloys finish the job quite nicely. The chassis has also been tweaked to ensure the driver fully benefits from the VXR makeover. There are no prices announced as yet, but expect to see the Meriva VXR hitting the showrooms by February 2006.
Situated in the VXR family next to its older brothers, the Astra and the Monaro, the Meriva occupies a niche within a niche and we think, a VXR too far. Although, a family wouldn't be complete without someone with an identity crisis.
The VXR mantra is all about "soul, power and sin to make you feel alive, electrified and inspired";
The Car Enthusiast questions whether this can be achieved in this class, but would like to be proved wrong and will certainly enjoy finding out early in 2006. Watch out for our review in the main
Vauxhall Road Tests page.
Paul Wilkinson - 25 Nov 2005
