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MPV
Vauxhall was the first to offer seating for seven in this class (with the original Zafira), and this second-generation model retains the excellent Flex 7 system, but provides more space than its predecessor. The two rear seats - which can accommodate tall teenagers - fold flat into the boot floor when they're not needed, while the middle row can be folded and pushed up against the front seats.
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It all works very well - it's just a shame Vauxhall didn't include a little more cabin stowage in the package. Up front, the driving position and visibility are good, and in terms of design and quality, the dashboard is clear and easy to use. The Zafira won a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, although lower-trimmed models lack standard curtain airbags. Happily, good handling and a decent ride come as standard. The steering is direct and accurate, while the chassis, even on sports models, soaks up the bumps with ease.
Running Costs
Care should be taken when choosing a sporty model. The VXR will take a big bite out of your monthly budget with Group 15 insurance and a low 29.4mpg. Admittedly the 2.0i 16v T SRi is cheaper to insure with a Group 13 rating, but its 29.7mpg is little better than the VXR, and both will get through a set of front tyres quicker than you might like. Elsewhere in the range, things are much better. The 1.6-litre Zafira's insurance costs are low, with just Group 6 rating, while economy is reasonable with an official 38.7mpg. The diesels provide the best fuel economy of all: the 118bhp engine returns 46.3mpg and, in our recommended Club trim, requires Group 9 insurance. The more powerful 148bhp engine falls into the same insurance group and returns 45.6mpg. As it doesn't hold on to its value as well as rivals like the Toyota Corolla Verso or Volkswagen Touran, the Zafira is a reasonably cheap used buy and lengthy service intervals mean it's not so expensive to run.