The Meriva and Zafira to become SUV models in the upcoming years

British car brand Vauxhall have confirmed that both the Meriva and Zafira models will officially become SUV vehicles rather than MPV models within the next few years. It is believed that the vehicles could make an appearance as SUV models as early as the year 2016 or around this time. This brand new change for both vehicles is thanks to a new partnership that Vauxhall have agreed to with Peugeot Citroen and could help these big companies bring the fight to SUV market dominating vehicles such as the Nissan Qashqai.

Vauxhall however are referring to the vehicles as CUV models (Crossover utility vehicle). As far as the Meriva and Zafira are concerned in the MPV market, these vehicles will be replaced in that division by completely new models which have not yet been named by the company but have been stated to be much more up to date with the demands of the current MPV consumer base.

Will both the Meriva and Zafira be any different as an SUV vehicle?

To answer this question simply, yes. When these two models make the switch to the SUV market it has been confirmed by the brand themselves that both vehicles will receive a much higher riding height than what the current generation models do and a lot more work will be done to the body design structure and layout of both vehicles. Both power trains and suspension systems are set to be two of the biggest focus points when making the transition and will share some similar looks and design features to some SUV models from Peugeot and Citroen. It has been reported that one of these two vehicles will be designed a European factory by Peugeot whilst the other will be developed by Vauxhall.

Vauxhall have revealed some brand new images of the design scheme that both vehicles are set to inherit in the next upcoming two years. The new images show some aspects of the car including a much larger front grille and bigger air vents fitted into the front bumper. A brand new set of redesigned headlights are also another feature that will find a place in the MPV replacements. Although it is too early for any information to be revealed regarding engine ranges to come along with both vehicles when they make the transition to SUV models, it is believed that there is a chance that Peugeot Citroen and Vauxhall may use turbocharged four cylinder engines in these brand new models.

A glimpse into the future of the Zafira and Meriva

So how does the future look for the two Vauxhall vehicles? It has been confirmed that even though the Zafira will make the change to an SUV model it will still continue to be sold as the tourer model for some time before it is replaced altogether. There is no word as to whether Meriva models will receive the same treatment. It is expected that the two vehicles will make the transition and go on sale by the end of 2016. As soon as more information becomes available we will keep you updated.