The Astra isn’t the only Vauxhall to
benefit from a power boost, because the versatile Zafira Tourer also now has
the new 192bhp 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo diesel.
As with the Astra, the Zafira’s progressive
power delivery means it doesn’t feel as fast from a standstill as its claimed
0-62mph time of 8.5 seconds. Yet with a muscular 400Nm of torque available from
a mere 1,750rpm, the Vauxhall delivers thumping overtaking pace.
The
Astra isn’t the only Vauxhall to benefit from a power boost, because the
versatile Zafira Tourer also now has the new 192bhp 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo diesel
Better still, the slick six-speed manual
gearbox makes it easy to access the full performance potential, while the
engine’s subdued soundtrack is better suited to the grown-up Zafira than the
racy Astra.
Even so, the Sri’s uprated Sports Chassis
features stiffer springs and dampers for sharper driving dynamics. And while
the steering lacks real feedback, the Zafira feels surprisingly poised and
agile through corners.
Vauxhall
Zafira Bi Turbo side
Happily, this improved display on twisting
back roads doesn’t come at the expense of comfort, as the car rides well and
does a good job insulating the cabin from wind and road noise.
Elsewhere, the BiTurbo is standard Zafira,
which means handsome exterior styling, plus a spacious and well thought-out
cabin. The Flex7 seating is easy to use although the third row is really
suitable only for children and the cabin is full of useful storage such as a
double-decker glove-box and lots of cup-holders.
The
Flex7 seating is easy to use – although the third row is really suitable only
for children
The Zafira shouldn’t cost the earth to run,
either. It claims 50.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 149b/km improvements of 7.6mpg
and 25g/km respectively over the 197bhp Ford S-MAX 2.2TDCi. And unlike the
Astra, the BiTurbo engine is available in SE, Sri and range-topping Elite
trims.
Verdict
The Zafira is a handsome, spacious,
versatile and refined MPV, while the BiTurbo engine adds a dash of muscular
performance. However, at $41,535 it’s not cheap, and for most family buyers the
163bhp version delivers more than enough performance.
Vauxhall
Zafira Bi Turbo back
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Technical specs
·
Price: $41,535
·
Engine: 2.0 4cyl twin-turbo, 192bhp
·
Transmission: 6spd man, fwd
·
0-60/top spd: 8.5 secs/135mph
·
Econ/CO2: 50.4mpg/149g/km
·
Kit: Cruise control, DAB radio, air-con,
sports susp, 18in alloys
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