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| Performance | 7.5/10  |
|---|---|
| Practicality | 10/10 |
| Reliability | 10/10 |
| Value for Money | 8.5/10 |
| Reviewer Rating | 9.5/10 |
| Overall Rating | 9.7/10  |
By ceefor
on 5th Jun 2006
| Year Manufactured | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Length of ownership | 15 months |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance | 7/10 |
| Practicality | 10/10 |
| Reliability | 10/10 |
| Value for money | 7/10 |
| Overall value | 9/10 |
 ceefor's recommendation | |
Extremely roomy for a family of 4 and practical when taxiing round friends and relatives.
Comfortable for long distance driving and very economical on a run.
No reliabilty issues in 14,000 miles travelled.
Diesel engine sound but performance doesn't set the world alight.
Despite being the second top trim level, equipment levels not great, basic CD and air conditioning, only front e/w and stingy driver & passenger front airbags only, no alloys.
We brought the Vauxhall Zafira shortly after the birth of our second child and it has proved itself to be a solid performer and extremely practical. No problems carrying enough paraphernalia for a family of 4 for a fortnights self catering without the need for a roof top box.
The flex seating is a doddle when grandparents/friends visit meaning you only need to take out one car for the day instead of two.
The load space with the rear sets of seats folded flat is enormous - and because it's tall it's much more versatile than a bog standard estate.
The seats are comfortable and with height adjustable drivers seat and reach and rake steering wheel adjustment it's easy to find the best driving position to suit - this makes for an excellent long distance cruiser.
The engine and performance are solid rather than sparkling - 99bhp and torquey delivers ok performance and good fuel economy (but if you are heavy with the right foot this will bring MPG down to no more than 35mpg) - I've been averaging 40+ lately (mixed driving) by amending my natural driving style.
I would recommend this diesel over others as it is chain to cam rather than belt to cam driven. Providing you keep the oil changed regularly (I would recommend every 7,000 miles), the 20,000 mile service interval is a reality with no costly timing belt changes, which again reduces on the road costs.
On the down side:
This is the second top specified model - Vauxhall have been very tight on the added extras with no alloys; only basic air con and stereo; and even more stingy on the airbags! Come on Vauxhall you are not BMW!!
The A pillars can obstruct your view at Roundabouts and junctions; again you'll have to modify your driving style (to be fair this seems a common complaint with MPV's whatever their make).
Finally, front wheel drive with a diesel lump up front means it's heavy on front tyres, unless you drive in a restrained manner. I had two new Continentals fitted @ 18,000 miles and it looks like two more will be needed at 30,000. These will have lasted less than a year and 195/65/16's aren't cheap!
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