The small MPV based on the Opel Corsa was launched in 2003 and just two years later it received an update to keep its high-sell values up and running.
While the market started to shift away from the MPV segment, Opel dared to launch a minivan based on the same platform with their small-segment car. It was a huge success. The German car-maker succeeded to reach 500.000 units sold in their first three years of production. To keep the momentum, the car-maker introduced new engines and new aesthetic changes to the car.

The front fascia remained almost the same, but a chromed bar was installed on the upper side of the grille. The bumper received a wide air-intake and fog-lights integrated into the side air-intake. In the rear, the taillights were smoked, following the market trend for that detail.

Inside, there was a new design for the door panels, instrument cluster, and new upholstery materials. It featured a redesigned instrument graphics. The audio system received Bluetooth connectivity with mobile phones. To increase the thermal comfort, the Meriva featured a warm-air blower, that could heat the cabin right after starting the engine. It was very useful for the diesel engine versions.

The biggest changes were made for the engine compartment, where there were three new engines available: a 1.3-liter diesel, a 1.6-liter gasoline unit, and a 180 hp turbocharged 1.6-liter for the OPC version.