Page 19 - Motoring Summer 2022

OPEL TEST REVIEW

Opel Zafira Life Edition
Opel Zafira Life Edition

T he new generation Opel Zafira launched only a few months ago in SA

has now grown into a full size 7-8 seater bus.
Our test model was the ‘lower’ spec Edition, complete with 8 seats
in 3 rows and 2l turbodiesel power giving 110kW and 370Nm through the front
wheels via a very smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.
The new Zafira qualifies as a bus in my book, as it has space galore to
stretch out. It’s roomy enough for a large family or would be ideal as a tour
bus. One big advantage of the bus-style over a 7 seater SUV is the massive boot
space available behind the 3rd row of seats measuring approximately 1 000l.
This is a vehicle that takes passengers plus all the accompanying luggage.
The Edition spec does mean that you have to live without a few extra
luxuries - electric seat adjustment for the driver, leather trim for the seats
(many people do actually still prefer cloth), dual panoramic roof panels and
powered side doors are some examples.
However, you do still get dual zone automatic air-conditioning plus roof
vents and separate adjustment for the rear, auto headlights, touchscreen with
reverse camera including overhead view, blind-spot warning and many other
features.
The automatic transmission is operated by a rotary switch which is
different but actually very easy in operation. There is a manual button, as well
as paddles on the steering wheel if you so desire, although personally I think
they are superfluous on a vehicle of this type.
A bus is a vehicle for relaxed, easy cruising and the Zafira excels in this
respect. And there is more than enough for overtaking when needed. The
automatic transmission quickly drops 1 or even 2 ratios when prompted for an
overtake on the freeway.
During our test period that involved a large amount of urban commuting,
the overall fuel consumption of 7.8l/100km was an excellent figure for a
vehicle of this size and capacity.
The Edition model is currently priced at R749 900 and this includes a
5-year/100 000km service plan. n

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