Vauxhall Zafira (2005 - 2014) 1.9 CDTi Design (150ps) 5d (Euro 4) (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I have children! It's a practical car that genuinely fits the 'multi purpose vehicle' brief.

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

Due to the continual and ongoing problems I've had with the car, they think it's a joke. Certainly none would buy one.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. This car has caused me more inconvenience and aggravation then any other vehicle I've owned. What particularly disappoints me is the appalling lack of refinement and Vauxhalls' complete refusal to address the matter or even discuss it.

What are you likely to buy next?

Ford S-Max or forth coming 7 seat Citroen Picasso.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£18,500

When did you buy the car?

May 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, I got £7,500 part X on my old Zafira, which was top doller, and negociated a substantial saving on the new car by using quotes obtained from internet suppliers.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

To replace my previous '52' Zafira DTi, one of the most practical, comfortable and reliable cars I have ever owned. I hoped that the 150 bhp diesel would answer my only critisim I had of that car namely a lack of 'puff' when overtaking.

What was the dealer like?

I have known this dealer for many years; my old car was serviced there. They are friendly and efficient and prepared to do a deal.

What's it like to drive?

Good driving position with controls logically laid out. Handling is good as well, not much body role and quite good fun to punt through the corners. The 150 bhp diesel makes over taking a doddle. However the ride is unsettle at low speeds particularly in town. The worst aspect of this car is its refinement which is appalling. Road noise is present at all speeds becoming intrusive and very wearing at motorway speeds. This is the least refined car I have driven for 20 years!

What's it like to park?

Its square cut and compact shape helps, but like most modern cars you can't see all the corners! Bad blind spot caused by thick A pillars.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Very poor reliability. In the first two months of ownership the car spent more time off the road then on it. The problem appears to be connected with the particle filter. It seems that this is a common problem. Very poor fuel consumption no more then 31 – 33 mpg a long way short of the official combined figure of 46 mpg. Still under investigation. Appalling refinement. Engine at low speeds, tyre / road noise at all speeds but becomes severe at speed. This is not a problem however according to Vauxhall! Squeaks & rattles. Would seem to belie Vauxhalls claim about improved build quality.

What's most practical about your car?

Flex 7 seating. Not class leading any more, but still pretty good. If you regularly carry people in the rear most seats it is still one of the best for leg room.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Design has lots of toys, auto wipers, lights, dipping rear view mirror and an option climate control. All of which cut down distractions when driving.