2019 Opel Zafira Life Photos, engines & full specs

Opel introduced the Zafira Life MPV in its lineup in 2019 as a full-size people carrier that could transport eight people comfortably over long distances, plus a lot of luggage in the back.

After joining the PSA Group (Peugeot-Citroen) in 2017, Opel also gained access to some of the French automaker’s platforms and products. As a result, it introduced the Zafira Life MPV into the growing D-segment people carrier vehicles. Previously, the German automaker used the Zafira nameplate for C-segment minivans developed onto compact-sized platforms. Unlike those vehicles, built in three generations between 1999 and 2019, the Zafira Life sat on the EMP2 base gained from PSA. The French automaker used it to create other vehicles, such as the Peugeot Traveler or the Citroen Expert. In addition, since creating an MPV wasn’t cheap, and the market wasn’t high for these kinds of vehicles, it shared it with Fiat, which made the Ulysse, and Toyota, which created the Proace.

Badge engineering was simple for Peugeot-Citroen since they already had experience in doing that. The French automaker knew that the front fascia was the most significant brand image, allowing Opel to create a unique design for the Zafira Life. As a result, the car sported swept-back headlights with integrated, L-shaped LED daytime running lights. Between them, the grille sported a horizontal chromed line that stretched from side to side and supported Opel’s big logo that took center stage. Furthermore, the automaker added chromed details, making the vehicle look more upscale.

The automaker installed functional venting areas on the lower bumper that helped cool the engine and the big AC condenser. The lower grille was flanked by side scoops that sported additional LED daytime running lights and the optional fog lamps. As a last detail, a lip spoiler adorned the bottom of the apron. The Zafira Life was available in three lengths and two wheelbase versions. Its flat and tall front doors featured black door mirrors, with an option for body-colored ones and an electric folding function. Customers could also get the Zafira with two powered sliding doors that helped with the ingress and egress. Finally, at the back, the automaker installed a broad tailgate flanked by the taillights.

Inside, the Zafira Life offered room for up to nine passengers, regardless of the vehicle’s length, since European laws required a special driving license for cars with more than that number of seats. At the front, it was obvious that the car was related to a utility vehicle. Its plastic dashboard was tall, and the center stack housed the gear stick or the rotary knob for the automatic transmission, depending on the options. The high-mounted seats were comfortable for long distances. The Zafira Life offered several configurations in the back, with bench seats or captain seats. The automaker also offered the option for glass roof areas for improved interior illumination.

Under the hood, Opel installed a choice of three turbo diesel engines paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. All versions were fitted with front-wheel drive systems.