Meriva concept is close to real deal

This is Vauxhalls Meriva concept car, which will go into production with only minor modifications later this year according to company officials.

The main feature of the car is its rear-hinged back doors, which have been dubbed Flexdoors. They are fitted on both sides of the car and open to 90 degrees to aid access.

However, for safety reasons and to comply with EU regulations, the rear doors will open only when the car is stationary.

The rest of the car's design, including the large panoramic roof and enlarged rear windows, takes cues from the Opel Flextreme concept, which was unveiled at last year's Frankfurt motor show.

Inside, the concept car reveals the shape of the new Merivas dashboard and trims, although the quality of the materials on the production car is likely to fall to keep production costs down.

The Meriva concept car will be shown in the metal at next week's Geneva motor show.