Opel Zafira
The large Opel minivan entered the brand’s lineup in 2019 under the name Zafira Life, a designation chosen to avoid confusion with the discontinued third-generation Zafira compact van (Zafira Tourer). Following its 2024 facelift, the “Life” suffix was dropped, and the model is now marketed simply as the Zafira. However, the naming strategy comes with a twist.
In Germany, the entry-level version is not called Zafira at all, but Vivaro Kombi. This basic configuration — featuring black bumpers, simpler seating, and exposed metal interior panels — carries the commercial-leaning Vivaro badge. The Zafira name is reserved exclusively for the better-equipped Edition trim and the range-topping GS.
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Interestingly, the base Vivaro Kombi comes standard with nine seats, thanks to a two-seat front passenger bench. Higher trims default to eight seats, although buyers can opt for either a nine-seat layout (albeit with tighter spacing) or a more comfortable six-seat configuration at extra cost.
powertrain
Technically, today’s Zafira belongs to the large French K0 family of one-ton vans, meaning its German identity is largely limited to the badge. Some may recall that until 2022, the Zafira Life equipped with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine was assembled at the PSMA Rus plant in Kaluga. Production ceased following the geopolitical developments of that year, which prompted many Western manufacturers to withdraw from the Russian market.
In 2022, diesel versions of the Zafira Life and other K0-based passenger models were also discontinued across the EU, leaving the lineup exclusively electric. As anticipated, sales of the minivan declined significantly. Diesel power returned in 2024 in the form of a 2.0-liter French DW10 engine producing 177 hp and 400 Nm of torque. That unit is now being replaced by a 2.2-liter Italian Multijet Evo engine delivering 180 hp and the same 400 Nm, while complying with the stricter Euro 6e emissions regulations.
These updated emissions standards pose increasing challenges for diesel engines. Despite the slight power increase, performance has marginally declined: the 0–100 km/h sprint now takes 10.6 seconds, compared to 10.4 seconds with the previous 2.0-liter unit, both paired with the same eight-speed automatic transmission. Top speed has also fallen from 193 km/h to 185 km/h.
In Germany, pricing for the 2.2-liter diesel starts at €39,990 for the Vivaro Kombi. The Zafira Edition begins at €41,990, while the flagship Zafira GS — featuring leather upholstery and additional premium equipment — starts at €49,540. The Vivaro Kombi is offered exclusively with the short 4,981 mm body. The Zafira, however, can also be ordered in the extended XL version measuring 5,331 mm, which provides increased cargo capacity for an additional surcharge.
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