Used Vauxhall Zafira buying guide
Vauxhall provided a variety of engine options – including both petrols and diesels – along with standard front-wheel drive.
Engines and transmissions
Petrol
- 1.4-litre turbocharged engine pushes out 138bhp for a 0-60mph time of 9.9 seconds.
- Earning around 40mpg, the 1.4-litre petrol engine has a CO2 emission rating of 158g/km.
- 1.8-litre engine also previously available, which also offered 138bhp but was less efficient.
- Second-generation Zafiras included a 113bhp 1.6-litre and even a 147bhp 2.2-litre.
Diesel
- 1.6-litre powerplant creates 132bhp, giving it a 10.4-second 0-60mph time, but providing the most economical drive at 62mpg.
- Larger 2.0-litre engine could push out between 128 and 167bhp, depending on the trim.
Practicality
The Vauxhall Zafira provides a versatile and roomy cabin that can hold up to seven passengers and is only rivalled by larger SUVs for interior space.
Interior space
- Seating for seven occupants in total.
- Third row is better suited for children, but adults fit comfortably in the second row.
- Storage options available throughout the cabin to hold smaller items.
Boot space
- 710-litre boot (with five seats in place) is impressive.
- Rear seats fold flat into the floor.
- With the rear seats folded, there's a huge 1,860 litres of space.
Safety
- Euro NCAP rating was a perfect five stars when tested.
- Adult occupant rating tops the charts at 94%.
- Standard safety equipment includes airbags and electronic stability control.
Technology
- DAB radio comes standard on the newest models.
- 7-inch touchscreen showcases crisp graphics.
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth supply seamless connectivity.
Different generations of used Vauxhall Zafira
The Vauxhall Zafira arrived in the UK back in 1999. This MPV was sold through to 2018, when it was in its third generation. While all of the generations contain the same basic design principles, Vauxhall updated the model regularly to keep it relevant and modern, with improved styling and technology. Over the generations, the Zafira has been offered in a range of powertrains offering flexibility for different driver's needs.
Third generation (2012-2018)
The final Zafira, replaced by the Vivaro Life in 2019, was renamed the Zafira Tourer and it shared a platform with the Astra. The exterior design was inspired by the Insignia, showcasing swept-back headlamps and boomerang-type headlights. The narrow grille revealed a chrome bar, and raked A-pillars were matched with a B-pillar that formed a triangle for a side-front window.
The cabin still offered room for seven, with tall seats for the largest passengers. A high-tech infotainment system was added and the instrument cluster closely resembled the one found in other Vauxhall models of the time.