Test drive Opel Zafira 2.2 Diesel 180 CV EAT8, eight genuine seats

For those looking for a spacious MPV, I have some bad news: there are currently no large MPVs on the market with up to 7 genuine seats, which were so useful for large families. But I have good news: vans have evolved so much that they are now a real alternative in terms of space and comfort.

Let’s take a detailed look at the Opel Zafira, an option that combines the best of a van with the comfort of a car and, best of all: 8 spacious seats for anyone.

Exterior and interior design

The Opel Zafira looks on the outside like a van, with squared shapes and a slightly elegant design if we consider its exterior colours (such as the green of our test unit) and tinted windows, but it is still a van.

However, things change when you open the doors. This is a van that has been brought into the realm of comfort, with an interior that is more reminiscent of an MPV than a commercial vehicle.

It has three rows of seats and a very versatile configuration. The two rear rows each have three seats, with the option of independent longitudinal sliding in a 2+1 format, which lets you adapt the space to your needs. We can have more legroom or less, and more boot space, depending on how we slide the seats.

Access is high, which may not be comfortable for everyone, but it provides an elevated and comfortable seating position. It also has electric sliding side doors, a key feature in daily use.

The level of comfort is surprising: front electric seats with heating and massage function, independent climate control for the rear seats, USB-C sockets and a panoramic roof that lets in plenty of light.

The boot is adequate, although its great advantage is its modularity: by moving the third row of seats we can gain a lot of space or leave it at minimum, with a minimum capacity of 600 litres.

Engine and performance

Under the bonnet we find a 2.2 diesel engine, which is noticeably smoother and more responsive than previous versions. This powertrain is entirely new, replacing the previous 2.0 diesel and improving on it in performance and feel (C label).

It is an engine that works especially comfortably around 2,000 rpm, where it delivers good pulling power. In Sport mode the response feels livelier.

The transmission is an EAT8 automatic, with no paddles or sequential mode, which adapts its operation to the driving mode selected.

Eco mode aims to keep the engine at low revs to reduce consumption, while Sport mode holds the gears longer and improves responsiveness. Its standout feature is performance, as it is an engine with good response even when fully loaded.

Handling

Behind the wheel, this Opel Zafira makes its focus clear: maximum comfort. It is not designed for dynamic driving, but for travelling without stress.

The suspension filters bumps well and the whole car feels solid. The engine also provides enough power to move the vehicle with ease.

Despite its size, it has a good steering lock, which makes manoeuvring in town easier. As the days and kilometres pass, you won’t want to get out of the Zafira, partly thanks to a comfortable elevated driving position.

On the motorway, above 100 km/h, there is some wind noise, which is common in this type of vehicle because of its shape.

Consumption

In terms of consumption, the figures are consistent with its size and purpose.

On the motorway, average consumption is around 7 l/100 km, while on secondary roads it drops to 6.4 l/100 km. In town it rises to 8 l/100 km.

Price and equipment

One of the most interesting points of the Opel Zafira is its level of equipment, well above what is expected from a van. It is available from 40,425 euros with the diesel engine.

It includes features such as satellite navigation, LED headlights with automatic high beam, a range of standard safety systems (forward collision warning with emergency braking, pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assist…) and a sound system better than expected.

Added to this are solutions clearly focused on comfort, such as massage seats, electric doors or independent climate control, all featured in the GS trim of our test unit.

In short, this is a van that drives like a car and offers a level of comfort typical of an MPV. A very interesting option for those who need space without giving up equipment.

Quick summary: Opel Zafira 2.2 Diesel 180 CV | C label | From €40,425 | Consumption 6.9 l/100 km | EAT8 automatic gearbox

Photos | Test team

Technical specifications of this car

Passenger VanOpel Zafira4 versions · from 45,690 €