Max Auto Updates - 06/01/2010

2011 Opel Meriva Revealed



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Opel has released the first images of the redesigned 2011 Meriva, ahead of its official unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.

Featuring the same design language as the critically-acclaimed Insignia, the Meriva looks far more upscale than its predecessor. The advanced design is further highlighted by the addition of FlexDoors which were originally shown on the Meriva Concept in 2008. According to Opel, the rear-hinged FlexDoors "swing open towards the back of the car at an angle of nearly 90 degrees, vastly improving the ease with which occupants enter and leave the cabin. Rather than having to step back, or to one side, as one would using a normal front-hinged door, the FlexDoor allows unimpeded forward access/egress to and from the cabin, enhanced further by the Meriva's exceptionally high roof line."

While Opel didn't release any interior pictures, they stated the cabin will feature a FlexRail system which allows owners to choose from a variety of modular storage bins and other components. Elsewhere, the company also revised the FlexSpace system (fold-down rear seats which can slide forward and backwards to improve legroom or storage capacity) to be more intuitive to use.

Engine options will include six turbocharged units with power outputs ranging from 55kW to 103kW. On average, the engines will have a 15% improvement in fuel efficiency and 25 g/km reduction in CO2 emissions. If that isn't green enough, the company will also introduce an ecoFLEX model.

Look for more information to be released in the coming months.

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VW Polo Revealed for India



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Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the redesigned Polo (Indian-spec) and Polo Cup at the New Delhi Auto Expo.

While we've already seen the Polo at the Geneva Motor Show, this is the first time the car has been shown for the Indian market. Set to be launched in March, the Polo will be available with two 1.2-liter engines. The petrol unit produces 55 kW and a 110 Nm of torque, while the diesel churns out 55 kW and 180 Nm of torque.

Of more interest, is the Polo Cup racer. Boasting a 1.6-liter R4 common rail diesel (CRD) engine, with 96 kW and 250 Nm of torque, the Polo Cup will make its racing debut in June. To ensure the car can handle a tough racing series, VW equipped it with a six-speed manual transmission, an adjustable Sachs racing suspension, an aerodynamic body kit (which consists of a front and rear spoiler, aggressive side skirts, and subtle rear wing), a racing seat (with a six-point harness and integrated head protection), an FIA approved roll cage, a fire suppression system, and a high performance braking system.