The Opel Zafira B, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2008, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s popular compact minivan. Sold primarily in Europe, the Zafira B aimed to provide a versatile and practical vehicle for families, blending spaciousness with a relatively affordable price point. The 2008 facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced engine options, including the 1.9 CDTI diesel engine producing 150 horsepower. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira B exemplifies the European approach to family transportation, prioritizing functionality and fuel efficiency.
Opel Zafira B (Facelift 2008) 1.9 CDTI: An Overview
The Zafira B, launched in 2005, was Opel’s second-generation Zafira, building upon the success of the original model. The 2008 facelift was a crucial mid-cycle refresh, designed to keep the Zafira competitive in a rapidly evolving market. This version retained the Zafira’s signature flexible seating arrangement, allowing for configurations from five to seven passengers. The 1.9 CDTI engine option, a common choice in Europe due to its balance of performance and economy, was a key component of the Zafira B’s appeal. It offered a practical solution for those needing a spacious vehicle for daily commutes and longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2008 Opel Zafira B 1.9 CDTI is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Z19DTH. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 2750 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.9 seconds. The Zafira B 1.9 CDTI achieves a maximum speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l). The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards and incorporates a diesel particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate between five and seven passengers. The 2008 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including a revised front fascia, new headlights, and updated taillights. Inside, the Zafira B is characterized by its flexible seating system, allowing the second and third-row seats to be folded flat or even removed entirely, creating a large and versatile cargo area. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 540 liters (19.07 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1820 liters (64.27 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The interior focused on practicality and durability, with materials chosen for their resistance to wear and tear. The Zafira B aimed to provide a comfortable and functional environment for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | November, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 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 (Back) track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Zafira B (facelift 2008) 1.9 CDTI remains a popular choice in the used car market in Europe, appreciated for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatile interior. While never officially available in the US, it represents a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed minivan that catered to the needs of European families.
