Vauxhall Zafira (2005 - 2014) 1.6i Energy 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Family guy

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

S'alright.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes definetly. Bigger engine and a few more gadgets wouldn't go a miss though.

What are you likely to buy next?

No plans at present but it would need to be another MPV. I've heard a rumour that (if vauxhall survive) the next Zafira will feature sliding rear doors and thats what this car sorely lacks.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£10,000

When did you buy the car?

August 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

We got a fantastic deal through the Vauxhall Partners scheme (UK Workforce thingy). We were looking at a 12 month old model at £12000. This deal wiped £5000 off the price of a split new one.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Family of five and a fan of vauxhall. Upgrading from a Meriva.

What was the dealer like?

Second car purchased from him and he's very nice. But all car dealers are the same if you know what I mean. They'll try and pull the wool over your eyes but I told this guy from the start and it's been okay. I'm sure he still manages to shaft me though!

What's it like to drive?

Hmmm. The 1.6i was a mistake. The car is too big for that size of engine. We drove from Glasgow to Cornwall fully loaded and it was a chore. It's not that economical either, only averaging 35 MPG on a good day. Handling is good though. My wifes main gripe about the Meriva was that it felt unsteady and it was, it was too narrow and too high which meant crosswinds were a nightmare on the motor way. She feels much more secure in the Zaf. It does feel like a big safe car. Kind of like Nanny from Count Duckula.

What's it like to park?

Suprisingly easy. I was worried that the lack of parking sensors would resuly in car park rash but so far, touch wood again, it has remained blemish free.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No, touch wood.

What's most practical about your car?

The size and the flexible seating.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Bit limited on options. Vauxhall seem to insist on putting manual windows in the back of all but top spec cars. I'd have to say then that I like the tinted windows and the 'structure' wheels which I call wife friendly. It's a formed steel wheel with a plastic wheel trim so you see the brake disk and caliper just like an alloy. My wife has already scuffed both front ones but they are on £40 to replace and I've since learned that you can change them for another design.