The Opel Zafira B, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2008, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s popular compact minivan. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira held a prominent position in the European market as a versatile and practical family vehicle. This generation, produced from 2008 to 2010, offered a blend of functionality, comfort, and relatively efficient diesel power, competing with models like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso. The Zafira B facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features, solidifying its appeal to families seeking a spacious and adaptable vehicle.
Opel Zafira B (Facelift 2008): A Detailed Overview
The Zafira B facelift, specifically the 1.9 CDTI variant with an automatic transmission, was designed to address the growing demand for fuel-efficient and family-friendly vehicles in Europe. Opel, a brand now under the Stellantis umbrella, focused on providing a practical solution for transporting passengers and cargo without sacrificing driving comfort. The Zafira’s key selling point was its flexible seating arrangement, capable of accommodating up to seven passengers, making it a popular choice for larger families. The 1.9 CDTI engine offered a balance between performance and economy, appealing to drivers who frequently undertake long journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2008 Opel Zafira B 1.9 CDTI is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Z19DTH. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2750 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 198 km/h (123 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) combined, with 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) on the open road. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, reflecting Opel’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B facelift maintains the original model’s distinctive minivan silhouette but incorporates revised front and rear styling elements. The front fascia features a redesigned grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the vehicle a more modern and aggressive appearance. Inside, the Zafira B offers a spacious and versatile cabin. The flexible seating system allows for various configurations, including the ability to fold down the third-row seats to create a larger cargo area. The interior materials were upgraded in the facelifted model, enhancing the overall sense of quality. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for family vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front and rear disc brakes. The Zafira B’s design prioritizes practicality and functionality, making it a comfortable and convenient vehicle for everyday use. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 540 liters (19.07 cu ft) to a maximum of 1820 liters (64.27 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | November, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 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 track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Zafira B facelift 1.9 CDTI Automatic offered a compelling package for European families seeking a practical, efficient, and comfortable minivan. Its flexible seating, decent performance, and relatively low running costs made it a popular choice in a competitive segment. While never sold in the US, the Zafira B represents a significant example of European automotive engineering focused on meeting the needs of modern families.
