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. The 1.7 DTR variant, producing 125 horsepower, was a common engine choice, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. This generation Zafira focused on refining the original’s strengths – spaciousness, modularity, and affordability – while incorporating updated styling and technology.
Opel Zafira B (Facelift 2008) 1.7 DTR: A European Family Hauler
The Zafira B, launched in 2005, was Opel’s second-generation Zafira, building upon the success of the original which pioneered the compact minivan segment in Europe. The 2008 facelift brought revised front and rear styling, interior enhancements, and updated engine options, including the 1.7 DTR diesel. This model aimed to compete with other European minivans like the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Ford C-Max, offering a compelling package for families needing flexible seating and cargo space. The Zafira’s key selling point remained its adaptable interior, capable of accommodating up to seven passengers, and its relatively affordable price point.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira B 1.7 DTR is a 1.7-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the A17DTR. This engine produces 125 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,300 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both performance and reduced emissions. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the Zafira 1.7 DTR achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.3 seconds and a top speed of 189 km/h (117.44 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 152 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards. The engine’s displacement is 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) and features a compression ratio of 18:1.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan, offering seating for five to seven passengers depending on the configuration. The 2008 facelift brought a more modern appearance with a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper. Inside, the Zafira B is characterized by its flexible seating system, known as “Flex7”. This system allows the second and third-row seats to be folded flat or even removed completely, creating a large, flat cargo area. The interior design prioritizes practicality and functionality, with numerous storage compartments and cupholders. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Zafira B’s trunk space ranges from 540 liters (19.07 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to 1820 liters (64.27 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4467 mm (175.87 in.), width 2025 mm (79.72 in.), and height 1635 mm (64.37 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 DTR (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | June, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2300 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1513 kg (3335.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 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, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Zafira B (facelift 2008) 1.7 DTR offered a practical and efficient solution for families in Europe. Its flexible interior, combined with its fuel-efficient diesel engine, made it a popular choice in the competitive minivan segment. While never sold in the US, it exemplifies the European approach to family transportation, prioritizing versatility and economy.
