A new engine
 for the Zafira Tourer

The Zafira Tourer builds on the success of the ‘classic’ Zafira, but with added space, practicality and a new refined 1.6 CDTi engine for improved fuel economy and lower emissions

The ‘classic’ Zafira has enjoyed success in the compact MPV sector in the UK since 1999. Across Europe, over 2.2 million have been sold, with almost a quarter of those sales coming from the UK. Since its launch in 2011, the Zafira Tourer has been recognised in the fleet industry, gaining awards such as best full-size people carrier from Fleet News and the Best MPV title two years running from Fleet World.

Cleanest diesel engine
The new Zafira Tourer comes with added cabin space, a flexible seating arrangement and upgraded materials for a more premium feel on the inside. What’s more, it is now offered with the new-generation 1.6 CDTi Start/Stop diesel engine, which Vauxhall says is its cleanest diesel engine ever.

For a car of its size, you could think that the 1.6-litre unit would not be up for the job. But it is. It gets up to speed quickly and smoothly, delivering 134bhp and 236lb ft (320Nm) of torque. It feels nimble and responds accurately. With low levels of noise, vibration and harshness, you can feel the refinement of the engine.

Compared to the 2.0 CDTi engine with similar power on the Zafira Tourer, it offers a 10 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, bringing it down to 68.9mpg combined and 109g/km CO2. I achieved 62mpg on a 45 mile trip which was impressive, and over the week I averaged 54mpg.

Other fuel-saving features of the engine is the
Start/Stop technology and the braking energy recuperation system. This recovers kinetic energy when the engine is overrun and converts it into electrical energy, feeding it into the battery. This happens when the foot is taken off the accelerator pedal or during braking.

Seating innovation
One of the major new developments of the new Zafira Tourer is its multiple seating configurations. As before, the third row seats  can fold down level with the floor of the luggage compartment. But the second row of seats has been completely re-designed. It now comprises three individual seats rather than a bench, and they can slide forwards and backwards and independently of each other.

The second row can also transform into two roomier seats with lots of extra legroom and shoulder space. The outer seats slide up and towards the centre of the cabin, and the middle seat folds down and the back turns into armrests. Vauxhall claims this clever seating system is a first in the industry.

Prices for the new Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTi start from £23,175 for the Tech Line model, and the engine is also available in Exclusiv and SE trim, too.
 
Company car drivers can save over £900 in running costs over a three-year period versus the 2.0 CDTi ecoFLEX model, based on a fleet driver using an 80,000 mile cycle.

As well as being spacious, the cabin feels light and airy, with a large panoramic windscreen.

The fabrics used are high quality and give it a luxurious feel. Boot space is good at 710 litres with the first two rows in place, increasing to 1,860 litres with the middle seats folded fully flat.

Safety features include a back camera screen for safer reversing and parking, blind spot monitors, lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control and ESP, as well as six airbags.

Compelling offer
The new Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTi has added to the success of the original Zafira, making it even more attractive, with lower CO2, better fuel economy and lower running costs. The flexible seating system and quality fabrics on the inside add more practicality and appeal and is a compelling offer for fleets looking for a compact MPV.

ENGINE: 1,598cc, four-cylinder diesel
CO2: 109g/km
MPG (combined): 68.9
VED: Band B, £0 first year, 
£20 thereafter
BIK: 17%
PRICE (OTR): £23,175 (incl VAT)