Opel Zafira C

Zafira in brief

The Zafira was produced in three generations: A (1999–2005), B (2005–2014) and C, also known as the Zafira Tourer (2011–2019). All were offered as seven-seaters: the third-row seats, using the Flex7 system, fold flat into the boot floor, turning the car quickly into a five-seater with a large boot.

Since 2019, the Zafira name (Zafira Life) has been used for a completely different vehicle — a large people carrier based on a commercial van. This article focuses mainly on the B and C generations, which are most commonly found in the used market.

Zafira B and Zafira Tourer — what's the difference

The Zafira B (2005–2014) is a straightforward, compact and affordable family car. In 2008 it was refreshed: the front end was revised, interior details were updated and newer diesel engines were introduced. Today, most B-generation cars have high mileage, so the key thing is the technical condition.

Zafira Tourer (C generation, 2011–2019) — bigger, quieter and significantly more modern. It boasts a more spacious interior, often featuring the Lounge seating system (the middle row seat folds flat to create a table), a sliding centre console FlexRail and a panoramic front windscreen. The 2016 facelift models received a new front end, a more modern infotainment system and were simply renamed Zafira.

Engines and gearboxes

In the Zafira B generation, you'll commonly find 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines and the 1.9 CDTI diesel (around 100–150 hp), and from 2008 onwards, the 1.7 CDTI. A factory-fitted compressed natural gas (CNG) version was offered, along with the sporty Zafira OPC featuring a 2.0 turbocharged engine (around 240 hp).

In the Zafira Tourer generation, petrol engines include the 1.4 Turbo (around 120–140 hp) and 1.6 Turbo (around 170–200 hp), while diesels feature the 2.0 CDTI (around 110–165 hp, with a more powerful BiTurbo version also available), and later models include the 1.6 CDTI. A compressed natural gas (CNG) version was also offered.

Gearboxes come in 5 or 6-speed manual or automatic. Automatic gearboxes are more frequently paired with more powerful engines.

What to check when buying a used Zafira

In the Zafira B generation, check the interior blower: issues with its resistor were linked to fire risks, leading to recall campaigns — ask if the repair has been done and ensure the blower works at all speeds. In 1.9 CDTI diesels, problems with the EGR valve and intake manifold gaskets are common.

Check the dual-mass flywheel and clutch on the Zafira Tourer with a 2.0 CDTI engine — vibration or rattling when moving indicates impending repair work. For diesel cars that have done a lot of city driving, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve.

A seven-seater family car is often heavily used, so inspect the interior for wear and tear, check that all seats fold down easily, and verify the ride quality against service and MOT records.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe. British models (Vauxhall Zafira) use different names.

Zafira Tourer (C generation) trim comparison

For many families, the best choice is the Zafira Tourer Edition with a 1.4 Turbo or 2.0 CDTI engine. The Innovation trim is worth considering for a more comfortable interior and extra features, while those on a tighter budget might prefer a well-maintained Zafira B.

Frequently asked questions