The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 2.2 DTI, produced between 2001 and 2002, represents a significant entry into the compact minivan segment for the German automaker. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira was a popular vehicle in Europe, known for its innovative space utilization and versatility. The Zafira A was the first model in the Zafira line, establishing the nameplate as a key player in the seven-seat family vehicle market. This generation focused on providing a practical and affordable solution for families needing flexible passenger and cargo space.
Opel Zafira A (T3000) 2.2 DTI: An Overview
The Zafira A (T3000) distinguished itself with its adaptable interior, most notably its optional third-row seating that could be folded flat into the floor when not in use. This feature, combined with a spacious cabin, made it a compelling alternative to larger, more expensive minivans. The 2.2 DTI variant, powered by a direct injection turbocharged diesel engine, offered a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for European roads. It was designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën Xsara Picasso, offering a German engineering alternative in a rapidly growing segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira A 2.2 DTI is a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated Y22DTR. This engine produces 125 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger with intercooler contribute to both improved fuel economy and increased power output. Power per liter is rated at 57.6 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.9 seconds. The Zafira A 2.2 DTI has a maximum speed of 187 km/h (116.2 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 11.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm. The engine’s fuel consumption is rated at 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) in urban conditions, 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) extra-urban, and 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) combined.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira A (T3000) is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and space efficiency. Key features include the aforementioned fold-flat third-row seating, a relatively large trunk space (150 liters minimum, expanding to 1700 liters with the rear seats folded), and a comfortable interior. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Zafira’s design was functional rather than overtly stylish, focusing on maximizing interior volume and usability. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4317 mm (169.96 in) in length, 1742 mm (68.58 in) in width, and 1634 mm (64.33 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2694 mm (106.06 in). The drag coefficient is 0.33. The Zafira A offered a level of versatility that was relatively uncommon in its class, making it a popular choice for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira A (T3000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 DTI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2001 |
| End of production | December, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y22DTR |
| Engine displacement | 2171 cm3 (132.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 150 l (5.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4317 mm (169.96 in.) |
| Width | 1742 mm (68.58 in.) |
| Height | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2694 mm (106.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 2.2 DTI, while never officially available in the US market, remains a notable example of European minivan design and engineering. Its focus on practicality, space efficiency, and fuel economy made it a popular choice for families in Europe during its production run.
