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. The 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX variant, produced primarily for the European market, focused on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions while still offering adequate performance for everyday driving. This model year, specifically the 2010 production run, featured refinements to both the exterior styling and interior appointments, solidifying its position as a competitive offering in the crowded European MPV segment.
Opel Zafira B (Facelift 2008) 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX: An Overview
The Zafira B, launched in 2005, was a direct successor to the original Zafira. The 2008 facelift brought noticeable changes to the front fascia, including revised headlights and a new grille, along with interior upgrades. The 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX engine was a key component of Opel’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles. The “ecoFLEX” designation indicated the inclusion of technologies designed to minimize fuel consumption and emissions. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira B was a common sight on European roads, appreciated for its spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and overall practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira B 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX is a 1.7-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated A17DTR. This engine produces 125 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2300 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is turbocharged with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with the turbocharging, allows for a good balance between performance and fuel economy. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 189 km/h (117.44 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.4 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan, offering seating for five to seven passengers depending on the configuration. Its body style prioritizes interior space and practicality. The facelifted model features a more modern and streamlined exterior appearance compared to the original Zafira B. Key features include a flexible seating system, allowing the second and third-row seats to be folded flat or even removed entirely to maximize cargo space. The trunk offers a minimum of 540 liters (19.07 cu. ft.) of space with all seats in place, expanding to a substantial 1820 liters (64.27 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features, typical for a vehicle of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Zafira B’s design focused on providing a comfortable and versatile environment for families, with an emphasis on maximizing space and usability. The drag coefficient is rated at 0.31.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2010 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2300 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1513 kg (3335.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Zafira B 1.7 DTR ecoFLEX, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatility for European families. Its focus on maximizing space and minimizing running costs made it a popular choice in its segment.



