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 compact footprint. This generation, while not officially sold in the United States, was a key player in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso. The 1.6 Turbo ecoFlex (150 Hp) CNG variant, produced from 2009 to 2010, offered a unique bi-fuel option, catering to growing environmental concerns and the availability of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure in certain European countries.
Opel Zafira B (2008-2010): A Detailed Overview
The Zafira B facelift, launched in 2008, brought with it revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated engine options. The 1.6 Turbo ecoFlex CNG model was a notable addition, combining a turbocharged gasoline engine with the capability to run on CNG, offering reduced emissions and potentially lower running costs. This model was designed to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking to minimize their fuel expenses. 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 1.6 Turbo ecoFlex CNG is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the Z16XNT. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2300 and 5000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and multi-port fuel injection to enhance performance and efficiency. The “ecoFlex” designation indicates Opel’s efforts to optimize fuel economy and reduce emissions. The bi-fuel capability allows the engine to run on either gasoline or CNG, or a combination of both. When running on CNG, power output may be slightly reduced. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.4 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 99.8 Hp/tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 139.7 Nm/tonne.
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 revised front fascia with a more prominent grille and updated headlights. Inside, the Zafira B boasts a flexible seating system, with the second-row seats capable of folding flat or being removed entirely, creating a spacious cargo area. 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. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Zafira B’s design prioritized practicality and versatility, making it a popular choice for families. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4467 mm (175.87 in.) in length, 2025 mm (79.72 in.) in width, and 1635 mm (64.37 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2703 mm (106.42 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo ecoFlex (150 Hp) CNG |
| Start of production | January, 2009 |
| End of production | June, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg / 26.2 UK mpg / 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg / 47.1 UK mpg / 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg / 36.7 UK mpg / 13 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 2300-5000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 2300-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z16XNT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1503 kg (3313.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 572 kg (1261.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1820 l (64.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4467 mm (175.87 in.) |
| Width | 2025 mm (79.72 in.) |
| Height | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Opel Zafira B 1.6 Turbo ecoFlex CNG offered a compelling package for European families seeking a versatile, practical, and relatively economical vehicle. Its bi-fuel capability and flexible interior made it a popular choice in a competitive segment.
