Europe
2010-06-10
Rüsselsheim. The excitement around the World Cup could keep many families reluctant to board a plane during a game, but that doesn’t have to interrupt vacation plans. Opel designed the new generation Meriva for families, so that summer vacations can be safe, comfortable, relaxed for everyone, without losing touch. One special feature is the ErgoFlex system, certified by independent back experts.
The Meriva’s special FlexSpace seating, which can transform the interior into everything from a two- to five- seater, makes it easy to load the luggage. The optional FlexFix rear bicycle carrier slides in and out of the rear bumper, so it is not only a snap to use; it is also gentle on the back.
High, theater-styled seating – along with a 5 cm dip along the exterior sidelines to create a distinctive wave – help the youngsters in the back see out the window better, avoiding car sickness and early queries of “are we there yet?”
Plenty of pockets and under-seat drawers – 32 separate spaces in all – keep the interior tidy – at least at the start of the trip. There is ample space to organize crayons, car games and iPods – like in the exclusive FlexRail center console system, which has exchangeable storage units that slide on aluminium rails between the front seats.
In the front, Mom and Dad can sit comfortably in seats that offer the widest range of adjustments in the segment. They can also choose to order expert-certified back-friendly ergonomic seats.
Together, the ErgoFlex System – which includes FlexSpace, FlexDoors, Ergonomic Seats and the FlexFix integrated bicycle carrier – has received a special award from the Aktion Gesünder Rücken (Action for Heathly Backs), an independent panel of back experts, earning Opel the rights to call it the ErgoFlex system. No other car in the world has been given this special award.
Perhaps the one feature that keeps parents especially pleased is the fuel efficiency. The new Meriva’s powertrain line-up is focused on efficient performance that delivers real world fuel economy on a car with a comfortable and balanced ride. The diesel 1.3 CDTI (55kW/75hp), for instance, sips only 4.9 liter/100 km and emits 129g/km, leaving extra money in the wallet for the holiday fun.
Although the Meriva won’t officially hit showrooms in Germany and other European countries until June 12, more than 30,000 orders have been received throughout Europe in time for the summer season. The extraordinarily high number of early orders shows that the new Meriva satisfies customers’ tastes.
Some simple suggestions for the summer sun:
Before setting off on a long journey, check the car. Pay particular attention to the oil and coolant levels, front and rear lamps as well as the tire pressure. These checks can also be carried out by an Opel dealer. Slightly (!) increasing the tire pressures also helps save fuel. For specific recommendations, see Opel’s air pressure table on the inside of the fuel cap.
An overloaded car can lead to impaired road handling, messy hotel rooms and lost clothes. Don’t forget to leave space for souvenirs.
Secure the luggage in the trunk so that nothing can fly forward into the passenger compartment in case the driver has to brake suddenly.
The driver’s condition depends greatly on his or her mental and physical state. Remember. The journey is part of the destination. Keep the car – and the driver – cool. Around 22 degrees Celsius is about right. But if one side is sitting in the sun and the other isn’t, avoid arguments and get an Automatic Climate Control. This two-zone system allows separate regulation of the temperature, keeping everyone happy.
Drag out the old car games, sing songs or buy a new electronic game especially for the ride to keep kids happy and stave off boredom. A favorite audio book can also keep children entertained on long trips. Opel infotainment systems offer an MP3 outlet perfect for this purpose. The infotainment is also a great way to stay tuned to the World Cup while in the car.
The driver should take a break for about 15 minutes every two or three hours. Walking around also helps kids cope with the long periods of sitting. Every driver gets tired, so change places during the trip. That way everyone arrives relaxed – as long as no back-seat drivers are in the car.
Traffic jams can be avoided with a bit of foresight when booking the vacation. Traffic typically peaks on the first and last days of school breaks. Nowadays, many hotels offer flexible arrival dates and no longer stick to Saturday as the obligatory “bed-changing day.”
Although a big juicy hamburger tastes great, it is not the ideal choice for a trip, because fatty food is hard on the stomach. This can lead to a stomach ache or heartburn because the stomach is partly compressed by the seating position in the car. Sitting still for a long time can also lead to bloatedness and stomach cramps associated with poor intestinal function. Light, sugar-free and fat-free meals are ideal. Fresh fruit provides a good vitamin boost. Don’t forget the water bottles. Driving in the heat of the summer can lead to dehydration, so drivers should drink up to three liters of water, diluted fruit juice or fruit tea each day. The side pocket in on Meriva front seats can hold water bottles up to 1.5 liters in size.
Opel engineers have not yet found a solution to that little voice in the back proclaiming for the fifth time: “I need to go to the bathroom.”
The World Cup excitement could keep families reluctant to board a plane during a game, but that doesn’t have to interrupt vacation plans. Opel designed the new generation Meriva for families, so that summer vacations can be safe, comfortable, relaxed for everyone, without losing touch.
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