1 Jun 2001
In Europe the Zafira, based on the TS Astra platform, has outsold its donor car since its 1999 release there, to become one of the most successful Opels ever.
In Australia it’s had less success, but has still made a name for itself as an inexpensive (though smaller) alternative to the Honda Odyssey.
The Zafira’s party trick is “Flex-7”, a third row two-seater bench that flips and folds flush with the floor in one easy manoeuvre.
Powered by the Astra’s 108kW/203Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed auto or five-speed manual gearbox, the Zafira’s bespoke and spacious body and cabin make it an ideal smaller-family get-about.
From May ’03 production shifted to Thailand from Belgium for Aussie-bound Zafiras, and there were minor trim, wheel and specification level changes.
An all-new Zafira based on the AH Astra is expected in 2006.
