The Opel Zafira Tourer C, specifically the 1.6 ecoFLEX (150 hp) CNG 7-seat variant produced from June 2016 to June 2017, represented a significant offering in the European MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. This model was part of the Zafira Tourer C facelift, building upon the foundation of the A3/1HX0 platform. It distinguished itself by offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency through its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) capability, and a relatively spacious interior accommodating up to seven passengers. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Zafira Tourer C lineup, it aimed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG is the B16XNT engine, a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is naturally aspirated and features multi-port fuel injection. Its displacement is 1598 cm³ (97.52 cu. in.), with a bore of 79 mm (3.11 in.) and a stroke of 81.5 mm (3.21 in.). The compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. The engine produces a maximum power output of 150 hp (112 kW) at 5000 rpm and a peak torque of 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft) between 2300 and 5000 rpm. The engine’s specific output is 93.9 hp per liter.
Crucially, this variant is bi-fuel, meaning it can run on either gasoline or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). When operating on CNG, the engine management system adjusts to optimize combustion for the alternative fuel. The CNG system utilizes a 25 kg capacity cylinder, providing a substantial range when running solely on CNG. The engine oil capacity is 4.5 liters (4.76 US qt / 3.96 UK qt), and the coolant capacity is 6.2 liters (6.55 US qt / 5.46 UK qt). The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Fuel System and Valvetrain
The B16XNT engine employs a conventional valvetrain configuration with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficiency and power delivery. The multi-port fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery to each cylinder, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine is designed to meet Euro 6 emission standards, reflecting Opel’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Driving Characteristics
The Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG offers a driving experience geared towards comfort and practicality rather than outright performance. The 150 hp engine, while adequate for everyday driving, doesn’t provide particularly brisk acceleration. 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.5 seconds, and 0-60 mph is achieved in around 10.9 seconds. The maximum speed is 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to effectively manage the engine’s power band, although the torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a broad range of engine speeds.
Compared to higher-output Zafira Tourer C variants, such as those equipped with larger gasoline engines, the 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG feels less responsive. However, the CNG operation provides a noticeable reduction in running costs, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG 7-seat variant typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design.
Optional extras available for this trim level included features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as automatic climate control, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The seven-seat configuration provided exceptional versatility, with the rear seats folding flat to create a large cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power, while the rear brakes are discs. The electric power steering system offers a light and responsive feel. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 1668 kg (3677.31 lbs), and the maximum weight is 2355 kg (5191.89 lbs). The maximum load capacity is 687 kg (1514.58 lbs). The turning circle is 11.9 meters (39.04 ft).
Market Reception & Comparison
The Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. The CNG capability was seen as a significant advantage, particularly in countries with well-developed CNG infrastructure. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of higher-output variants. Compared to the gasoline-only Zafira Tourer C models, the CNG version offered lower running costs but a slightly less engaging driving experience. Fuel economy figures are approximately 7.6-7.2 l/100 km (30.9 – 32.7 US mpg) combined, and 5.0-4.7 kg/100 km on CNG. CO2 emissions are 136-129 g/km.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira Tourer C (facelift 2016) |
| Type | 1.6 ecoFLEX (150 Hp) CNG 7 Seat |
| Start of production | June, 2016 |
| End of production | June, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3-9.9 l/100 km (22.8 – 23.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (urban CNG) | 6.7-6.5 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.0-5.6 l/100 km (39.2 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban CNG) | 3.9-3.7 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6-7.2 l/100 km (30.9 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined CNG) | 5.0-4.7 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 136-129 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) | 136-129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 2300-5000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B16XNT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1668 kg (3677.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2355 kg (5191.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 152 l (5.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1792 l (63.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 10.5 l (2.77 US gal | 2.31 UK gal) |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 25 kg |
| Length | 4666 mm (183.7 in.) |
| Width | 1884 mm (74.17 in.) |
| Height | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
Legacy
The Opel Zafira Tourer C 1.6 ecoFLEX CNG, while not the most powerful or dynamically engaging version of the Zafira, remains a practical and economical choice in the used car market. The B16XNT engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial, particularly for the CNG system components. The availability of CNG refueling stations is a key consideration for potential buyers. The Zafira Tourer C’s spacious interior and versatile seating configuration continue to appeal to families, making it a viable option for those seeking a well-rounded MPV.
