THE world of small MPV's just got turned on its head by a new kid on the block that's almost all things to all men.

The latest engine in Vauxhall's clever Meriva is a new 1.6 turbo diesel with no less than 136bhp.

This excellent power unit is very smooth and quiet, happily trickling through town in high gear without a grumble.

But put your foot down on the loud pedal and it picks up its heels like a schoolkid let out for the day.

There's very little turbo lag even at lower revs, and acceleration is excellent from any legal speed, with plenty of urge for overtaking.

The good news doesn't stop with the engine either. This Meriva rides beautifully over even the roughest of town roads at low speeds, smoothing out the worst than the gas and electricity workers can achieve with the surface.

And it even takes the corners with aplomb, gripping strongly all the way.

I could easily live with one of these.

There's good space for four but five adults would be well compressed. The driving position is fine with plenty of adjustment and the practical back doors, which open from the rear, give very easy access.

Equipment includes very flexible seating, stop start, stability control, electric windows and mirrors, air con and an alarm.