THE Vauxhall Meriva will boast a fresh look and new diesel engine when the latest model goes on sale next month.

Launched in 2010, the second-generation Meriva shook up the compact MPV scene with its FlexDoors system - rear-hinged rear doors which allow a 20 per cent larger opening for passengers.

It also featured FlexSpace, allowing rear passengers a variety of different seating combinations.

Now the revamped Meriva gets a new grille, chrome accents that frame the front fog lamps and newly-designed headlamps with an ‘eagle-eye' graphic.

And for the first time, LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights are available as an option along with optional 18-inch alloy wheels.

Fresh from its launch in the Zafira Tourer, Vauxhall's 1.6 CDTi diesel engine will also be available in the Meriva. It produces 136PS and can return a Combined 64.2mpg and 116g/km of CO2 emissions.

It equates to a 10 per cent improvement in economy and emissions over the 1.7 CDTi, which the new unit replaces.

Diesel performance from the Meriva has also been improved, the 1.6 CDTi model accelerating from 0-60mph in 9.1 seconds, nearly a second quicker than the 1.7 CDTi.

Prices will be announced next month when the order book opens, with first customer deliveries due in January.