Sources within the Luton...

Sources within the Luton manufacturer have let slip that company bosses are closely watching the popularity of the GM Journey - which goes on sale in South America later this year. If that model proves to be a success, then the maker may offer something similar in UK showrooms.

Based on the platform of sister firm Suzuki"s Ignis 4x4, the Journey goes head-to-head with rivals such as the Ford Fusion-based Ecosport, driven for the first time by Auto Express on page 32 of this week"s issue. And if the mini off-roader performs well in the sales charts, then a Vauxhall Meriva-based version could hit the UK as a more practical alternative to the likes of the Citroen C3 XTR, Rover Streetwise and VW Polo Dune.

However, unlike that trio of potential rivals, it won"t wear what is essentially the same bodywork as the hatchback version in a slightly modified form. Instead, the Vauxhall-badged car would get its own unique bodyshell.

In the same way as the all-new drop-top Tigra is Corsa-based, but remains uniquely styled, a Meriva SUV would have a design that would make it stand out as an individual model. It would also be very different to its South American counterpart. Vauxhall"s off-roader would be unlikely to gain a four-wheel-drive transmission, and would rely instead on the Meriva"s standard front-drive set-up. Inside, the newcomer would offer buyers plenty of room and versatility by making use of the Meriva"s innovative FlexSpace seating arrangement. This system allows passengers to choose between space for themselves or for their luggage. If the GM Journey does turn out to be popular with buyers in South America, the equivalent Vauxhall model could appear in British showrooms by 2007. The car would probably carry a premium in the region of н‚бЈ1,000 over the equivalent Meriva.