Vauxhall Zafira

Compact MPV (5 or 7-seat family car) · 1999 to 2019

The Vauxhall Zafira was a popular compact MPV sold new in the UK from 1999 until production ended in 2019. It was aimed at families needing practical seven-seat flexibility without stepping up to a larger van-based people carrier. The original Zafira A introduced the clever Flex7 folding seat system, which was carried through later generations. The Zafira B followed in 2005 with a more refined cabin and updated engines, while the Zafira Tourer (sometimes called Zafira C) arrived in 2011 with sharper styling and improved efficiency. Petrol and diesel engines were offered throughout its life, ranging from smaller 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrols to 1.9 and 2.0-litre diesels, with a later 1.4-litre turbo petrol option. Many used examples remain on UK roads today, often bought as affordable, spacious family transport, making MOT and service history checks particularly important before purchase.

Body type

Compact MPV (5 or 7-seat family car)

Years (UK)

1999 to 2019

Typical engine

1.6 to 1.8-litre petrol or 1.9 to 2.0-litre diesel, later models with 1.4-litre turbo petrol or 2.0 CDTi diesel

Fuels available

2 options

Fuel and powertrain options

The Vauxhall Zafira is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the Vauxhall Zafira. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Check the rear seat folding mechanism and seatbelt anchorages operate correctly, as wear is common on high-mileage Flex7 systems
Inspect for corrosion around the rear wheel arches and sills, a known weak point on older Zafira models
Confirm any safety recalls, particularly the Zafira B seatbelt pretensioner and engine bay fire risk recalls, have been carried out - verify via gov.uk
Test the electric window regulators and central locking, as faults are frequently reported on this model
Check for timing belt or chain service history on diesel and older petrol engines, as failure can cause serious engine damage

Frequently asked questions

Is the Vauxhall Zafira still available to buy new in the UK?

No, the Zafira was discontinued in the UK in 2019. All examples are now bought and sold on the used car market.

What should I check on a Zafira's MOT history?

Look at the full MOT history on the official DVSA MOT history checker to see past advisories, failures and mileage records before buying.

Was the Vauxhall Zafira subject to any recalls?

Yes, certain Zafira B models were recalled over seatbelt pretensioner and engine bay fire risks. Always check the vehicle's recall status on gov.uk using the registration number.

Is the Zafira a good choice for a family car?

Its seven-seat flexibility and practical interior made it popular with UK families, though buyers should check service history and MOT records carefully given the age of most examples now on sale.

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