VAUXHALL Zafira 2005-2011 Photos, engines & full specs

Vauxhall introduced the second generation of the Zafira minivan in 2005, following the same recipe as its predecessor but enhanced.

Zafira's first generation was a major hit on the market. It provided a seven-seat vehicle that could easily park in cramped, compact-sized spots. Like its predecessor, the second generation sat on top of an Opel/Vauxhall Astra platform, leading to lower costs of ownership and affordable prices. It was also a hit on the car-rental companies, which were a big customer for Vauxhall/Opel.

GM's European design department used the same lines on the Astra H lineup on the new generation. Its clear ellipsoid headlights followed the new-edge design language. They flanked a reversed trapezoidal grille crossed by the Vauxhall-specific slat with a V-shape in the middle. From its sides, the car lost the black moldings, which were helpful against parking scratches. Instead, Vauxhall replaced them with body-colored ones that enhanced the overall car's look. Also, Vauxhall added body-colored flush door handles and mirrors.

Inside, the cabin provided enough room for up to seven passengers on three rows of seats, with the last row folding flat in the trunk. At the front, the high-mounted seats provided good all-around visibility. The instrument cluster was smaller than on the 2003-2005 Zafira, but the center stack was taller and included the infotainment's screen. Vauxhall installed only the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel level in the instrument panel, losing the coolant-temperature gauge.

Under the hood, the carmaker introduced a choice of six engines, both gasoline and turbo-diesel, paired with either a five- or six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.