Opel Zafira B (facelift ) 1.6i 16V (94 Hp) CNG

The Opel Zafira B, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2008, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a family vehicle, the Zafira B aimed to provide versatility and practicality within a relatively affordable package. This generation, produced from 2005 to 2014, saw substantial updates in 2008, including revised styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features. The 1.6i 16V (94 Hp) CNG variant, detailed here, was a notable offering, particularly in European markets where Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles were gaining traction as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira B played a crucial role in Opel’s European lineup, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso.

Opel Zafira B (Facelift 2008) 1.6i 16V CNG: An Overview

The Zafira B facelift, launched in 2008, brought a refreshed look to the minivan, with a redesigned front fascia, grille, and headlights. More importantly, it incorporated improvements to the interior, focusing on perceived quality and ergonomics. The 1.6i 16V CNG model was a key part of Opel’s strategy to offer alternative fuel vehicles, catering to growing environmental concerns and government incentives for cleaner transportation. This version combined a traditional gasoline engine with a CNG system, allowing drivers to switch between fuels depending on availability and cost. The Zafira B’s defining feature remained its flexible seating arrangement, offering configurations for five or seven passengers, making it a practical choice for families.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Zafira B 1.6i 16V CNG is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated the Z16YNG. This engine produces 94 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 133 Nm (98.1 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The addition of a CNG system allows the vehicle to run on compressed natural gas, either exclusively or in combination with gasoline. When running on CNG, the engine’s output may be slightly reduced, but the lower emissions and potentially lower fuel costs were significant advantages. Performance figures reflect the vehicle’s focus on practicality rather than outright speed. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 17 seconds, and the top speed is 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 14.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 10.6 kg/Nm.

Design & Features

The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan, offering seating for five to seven passengers depending on the configuration. The facelifted model features a more modern and streamlined exterior design compared to the pre-2008 version. Key design elements include a prominent front grille, sculpted headlights, and a relatively spacious interior. The interior is characterized by its modular seating system, allowing for various seating arrangements to maximize cargo space or passenger comfort. The Zafira B prioritizes practicality and functionality. Safety features, updated in the 2008 facelift, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicle’s dimensions are as follows: length 4467 mm (175.87 in), width 1801 mm (70.91 in), height 1635 mm (64.37 in), and wheelbase 2703 mm (106.42 in). Trunk space ranges from 540 liters (19.07 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to 1820 liters (64.27 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.

Technical Specifications