Geneva: Opel Zafira

**TaHoE** · 02-17-2005, 08:01 AM

Geneva Auto Show: New! Opel Zafira
www.gminsidenews.com
GMI is First Again, with your Geneva Auto Show Coverage, Stay tuned for more information and pics!

World premiere at 75th Geneva Motor Show

New Zafira: Second Generation of Compact Van Trendsetter

Driver-oriented seven-seater, unrivalled versatility, dynamic design

Rüsselsheim. Opel presents the second generation of its compact van trendsetter, the new Zafira, to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show (March 3 – 13, 2005). The new Zafira features dynamic design and driving performance as well as a larger, high-quality interior with a driver-oriented ****************pit. Further enhancements to the seven-seat bestseller include a wide range of state-of-the-art engines and an exceptional technology package. The Flex7 seating system continues to set standards with its ingenious versatility. Making its debut in the new Zafira is an innovative panorama roof system with integrated storage compartments, which creates a pleasant, light atmosphere for the passengers.

Familiar from the Astra and now redeveloped for the Zafira, the IDSPlus chassis (Interactive Driving System) with electronic CDC (Continuous Damping Control) ensures exciting driving. Other technical highlights offered for the first time in the compact van segment include steering-linked AFL bi-xenon headlamps (Adaptive Forward Lighting) with dynamic curve light. The exceptionally wide range of engines available for the new Zafira includes state-of-the-art units with displacements of 1.6 to 2.2 liters and power outputs from 74 kW/100 hp to 147 kW/200 hp. No competitor offers such a wide variety of powertrains. All diesel engines have latest-generation common-rail multiple direct injection and are available with a maintenance-free Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The new Zafira will be launched as of July 2005 and production in the Bochum plant starts at the end of April.

Hans Demant, Managing Director, Adam Opel AG on the new Zafira generation: “Lots of space, maximum versatility and easy to operate – this is what customers expect from a modern van. With its unrivalled Flex7 interior concept, the new Zafira holds the key to success, just like its predecessor. This is complemented by an exciting design, excellent driving dynamics, innovative technology and numerous practical details.”

In 1999 the Opel Zafira was the first seven-seat compact van from a German manufacturer and the first van with a third row of seats that can be completely folded down and stowed away. It was this patented, easy-to-operate Flex7 seating system that was decisive for the success of the multiple award-winning bestseller. In Germany the Zafira immediately went to number one in its class when it was launched, and stayed there for four years in a row. To date, around 1.4 million units of the original Zafira have been produced.

The new Zafira’s look is confident, dynamic and unmistakeably related to the Astra, whose form language has been reinterpreted in compact van format (length/width excl. exterior mirrors/height: 4467/1776/1637 mm). Its sportiness and elegance are magnified by the distinct V-shape tapering of the front and rear with the characteristic Opel crease line, the strong, rising body shoulder and the aerodynamic roofline gently sloping downward to the rear. The new Zafira’s elegant and dynamic looks are accentuated by eye-catching details such as large air inlets in the front bumper, visibly hi-tech, three-dimensional headlamps and taillights, as well as the trapezoidal-shaped, chrome-framed radiator grille with the Opel logo and characteristic chrome crossbar.

The interior features high-quality materials, high-class finish and perfect ergonomics. The driver-oriented ****************pit is an excellent example: all controls are positioned in optimal reach for the driver. The gear shift lever, for instance, is positioned higher for easy, comfortable operation. This provided space for a newly-designed, U-shaped hand brake lever integrated in the center console, and an additional storage compartment. The new instrument panel boasts chrome-ringed instruments and a clearly laid-out center console with a large, easy to read monitor. This displays all information for the state-of-the-art infotainment systems with intuitive operating concept, including units with DVD navigation and Bluetooth technology.

In terms of comfort and space, the new Zafira is a step ahead of the first generation model. Thanks to its long wheelbase (2703 mm) and clever packaging, up to seven passengers have even more room in all three rows. The Flex7 seating system, now even easier to operate, ensures maximum versatility for all everyday transportation needs. In a matter of seconds, the Zafira can easily be turned from a seven to a six, five, four, three or two-seater, without having to remove or cumbersomely stow away the seats. The front passenger seat can also be ordered with a foldable seat back, fold-down table on the seat back, and a large storage compartment under the seat cushion to store items like an atlas. Depending on the equipment line, the new Zafira offers around 30 practical storage compartments, making the spacious van an ideal family car.

In its five-seat configuration, the new Zafira’s luggage compartment volume is 620 liters,
20 liters more than in the predecessor. The FlexOrganizer system from the new Astra station wagon is now also available for the Zafira. This clever cargo management system is comprised of two horizontal side rails in the luggage compartment, which have adjustable mounting points to allow flexible attachment of various retaining straps, hooks, dividers and storage boxes. In this way, every type of cargo can be safely, comfortably and neatly transported.

The optional panorama roof with integrated storage facilities makes its world premiere in the new Opel Zafira. With its four large glass panels, the system offers passengers a particularly pleasant, light atmosphere. Dark tinted glass and a power-operated shading system provide protection against strong sunlight. And the center roof console running down the length of the ceiling houses five different-sized compartments for additional storage space.

The Zafira´s SAFETEC system ensures a high level of safety, combining all standard active and passive safety elements. These include ABS with electronic brake force distribution and cornering brake control, brake assist, the electronic stability program ESPPlus as well as a comprehensive restraint system with airbags in front, thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front seat passenger, and head curtain airbags for the first and second row. Additional passive safety equipment includes decoupling pedals (PRS, Pedal Release System), a safety belt warning system in front, and mountings for the ISOFIX child’s seat system on both outer seats in the second row.
Active head restraints in front, a seat occupancy detection for the front passenger seat and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System TPMS are available as options.

Lively and economical performance is ensured by the new Zafira’s wide range of engines. Customers can choose between three diesel and four gasoline units from the ECOTEC family with power outputs of 100 to 200 hp. The top-of-the-line engine is the 147 kW/
200 hp 2.0 turbo gasoline unit, which takes the Zafira to a top speed of around 220 km/h. That is followed by a 2.2-liter gasoline direct injection engine (110 kW/150 hp) and a new 1.8-liter unit (103 kW/140 hp). The entry-level gasoline engine is a 1.6-liter unit (77 kW/
105 hp) with fuel-saving TWINPORT technology.

Three state-of-the-art 1.9-liter common-rail turbo-diesel engines with multiple direct injection round off the powertrain program for the new Zafira. The 1.9 CDTI units are offered in three output levels – 74 kW/100 hp, 88 kW/120 hp, 110 kW/150 hp – and are available with a maintenance-free Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Transmissions for the new Zafira include a six-speed manual gearbox (standard for
2.2 direct, 2.0 turbo and all 1.9 CDTI), a five-speed manual (standard for 1.6 TWINPORT and 1.8), a six-speed automatic with ActiveSelect function (optional for 1.9 CDTI with 120 and 150 hp) and a four-speed automatic (optional for 2.2 direct). In conjunction with the 1.8-liter gasoline engine, a further development of the Easytronic automated manual transmission is available.

Text and images can be downloaded under www.media.opel.com.

GMMediumDutyMQ · 02-17-2005, 09:20 AM

Looks nice. I've always liked the Zafiras, and this would definately be a nice replacement for the CSV, or addition to the Saturn lineup. Hey, wouldn't you drive a minivan with a 5-speed manual?

Is it just me, or in that side view, does the front fascia look a bit like an Accord/Oddessy?

GN6 · 02-17-2005, 09:32 AM

Yep. Replace Saturn's CSV with this thing. It looks a little smaller, but it adds to Saturns Euro image that they're shooting for.

paul8488 · 02-17-2005, 12:44 PM

Well it's 100% clear where the Aura nose came from! I knew it was similar to the Opel nose, but it's closer than I thought! Even the tailights look the same. It's not a bad thing, just noticeable.

kain01 · 02-17-2005, 01:02 PM

I say this thing could be redesigned into the next Pontiac Vibe so they could stop helping Toyota.

johnd89 · 02-17-2005, 01:10 PM

that would be "ZAFIRA"-hehe-

gmsickofan · 02-17-2005, 01:21 PM

This is what a Saturn minivan should be. Not some OHV, 4-speed powered clone of a Chevy van.

driverblogger · 02-19-2005, 12:39 PM

looks great

AMcA · 02-19-2005, 12:56 PM

Nice.

Note the little Cadillac touch in the V shape of the rear window bottom.

Absolutely, Saturn ought to be seling this.

citric acid · 02-23-2005, 12:57 AM

To Saturn: Sell this, not the Relay.

**TaHoE** · 02-23-2005, 06:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnd89

that would be "ZAFIRA"-hehe-

........ooooook........

xtremegrandam · 02-23-2005, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paul8488

Well it's 100% clear where the Aura nose came from! I knew it was similar to the Opel nose, but it's closer than I thought! Even the tailights look the same. It's not a bad thing, just noticeable.

Yep that is exactly what I was going to say!

member12 · 02-24-2005, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GMMediumDutyMQ

Looks nice. I've always liked the Zafiras, and this would definately be a nice replacement for the CSV, or addition to the Saturn lineup. Hey, wouldn't you drive a minivan with a 5-speed manual?

Is it just me, or in that side view, does the front fascia look a bit like an Accord/Oddessy?

Way to small for the CSV's. It might even be smaller than a mazda MPV. It might do well for a saturn minivan, though. Chevrolet and Pontiac need to go after Honda and Chrysler.

x2222 · 02-27-2005, 11:39 PM

gm can really learn something from opel interiors. And yeah, they really should have used this instead of the relay although it would have outshined the other three csv clones.

pkd87 · 02-28-2005, 08:02 AM

WEll this should denfinatly help out GM in Europe.

02-17-2005, 08:01 AM	#1 (permalink)
TaHoE GMI Staff Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: South Central NC Drives: 2009 Pontiac G6 Convertible 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Posts: 10,032	Geneva: Opel Zafira Geneva Auto Show: New! Opel Zafira www.gminsidenews.com GMI is First Again, with your Geneva Auto Show Coverage, Stay tuned for more information and pics! World premiere at 75th Geneva Motor Show New Zafira: Second Generation of Compact Van Trendsetter Driver-oriented seven-seater, unrivalled versatility, dynamic design Rüsselsheim. Opel presents the second generation of its compact van trendsetter, the new Zafira, to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show (March 3 – 13, 2005). The new Zafira features dynamic design and driving performance as well as a larger, high-quality interior with a driver-oriented **************pit. Further enhancements to the seven-seat bestseller include a wide range of state-of-the-art engines and an exceptional technology package. The Flex7 seating system continues to set standards with its ingenious versatility. Making its debut in the new Zafira is an innovative panorama roof system with integrated storage compartments, which creates a pleasant, light atmosphere for the passengers. Familiar from the Astra and now redeveloped for the Zafira, the IDSPlus chassis (Interactive Driving System) with electronic CDC (Continuous Damping Control) ensures exciting driving. Other technical highlights offered for the first time in the compact van segment include steering-linked AFL bi-xenon headlamps (Adaptive Forward Lighting) with dynamic curve light. The exceptionally wide range of engines available for the new Zafira includes state-of-the-art units with displacements of 1.6 to 2.2 liters and power outputs from 74 kW/100 hp to 147 kW/200 hp. No competitor offers such a wide variety of powertrains. All diesel engines have latest-generation common-rail multiple direct injection and are available with a maintenance-free Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The new Zafira will be launched as of July 2005 and production in the Bochum plant starts at the end of April. Hans Demant, Managing Director, Adam Opel AG on the new Zafira generation: “Lots of space, maximum versatility and easy to operate – this is what customers expect from a modern van. With its unrivalled Flex7 interior concept, the new Zafira holds the key to success, just like its predecessor. This is complemented by an exciting design, excellent driving dynamics, innovative technology and numerous practical details.” In 1999 the Opel Zafira was the first seven-seat compact van from a German manufacturer and the first van with a third row of seats that can be completely folded down and stowed away. It was this patented, easy-to-operate Flex7 seating system that was decisive for the success of the multiple award-winning bestseller. In Germany the Zafira immediately went to number one in its class when it was launched, and stayed there for four years in a row. To date, around 1.4 million units of the original Zafira have been produced. The new Zafira’s look is confident, dynamic and unmistakeably related to the Astra, whose form language has been reinterpreted in compact van format (length/width excl. exterior mirrors/height: 4467/1776/1637 mm). Its sportiness and elegance are magnified by the distinct V-shape tapering of the front and rear with the characteristic Opel crease line, the strong, rising body shoulder and the aerodynamic roofline gently sloping downward to the rear. The new Zafira’s elegant and dynamic looks are accentuated by eye-catching details such as large air inlets in the front bumper, visibly hi-tech, three-dimensional headlamps and taillights, as well as the trapezoidal-shaped, chrome-framed radiator grille with the Opel logo and characteristic chrome crossbar. The interior features high-quality materials, high-class finish and perfect ergonomics. The driver-oriented *************pit is an excellent example: all controls are positioned in optimal reach for the driver. The gear shift lever, for instance, is positioned higher for easy, comfortable operation. This provided space for a newly-designed, U-shaped hand brake lever integrated in the center console, and an additional storage compartment. The new instrument panel boasts chrome-ringed instruments and a clearly laid-out center console with a large, easy to read monitor. This displays all information for the state-of-the-art infotainment systems with intuitive operating concept, including units with DVD navigation and Bluetooth technology. In terms of comfort and space, the new Zafira is a step ahead of the first generation model. Thanks to its long wheelbase (2703 mm) and clever packaging, up to seven passengers have even more room in all three rows. The Flex7 seating system, now even easier to operate, ensures maximum versatility for all everyday transportation needs. In a matter of seconds, the Zafira can easily be turned from a seven to a six, five, four, three or two-seater, without having to remove or cumbersomely stow away the seats. The front passenger seat can also be ordered with a foldable seat back, fold-down table on the seat back, and a large storage compartment under the seat cushion to store items like an atlas. Depending on the equipment line, the new Zafira offers around 30 practical storage compartments, making the spacious van an ideal family car. In its five-seat configuration, the new Zafira’s luggage compartment volume is 620 liters, 20 liters more than in the predecessor. The FlexOrganizer system from the new Astra station wagon is now also available for the Zafira. This clever cargo management system is comprised of two horizontal side rails in the luggage compartment, which have adjustable mounting points to allow flexible attachment of various retaining straps, hooks, dividers and storage boxes. In this way, every type of cargo can be safely, comfortably and neatly transported. The optional panorama roof with integrated storage facilities makes its world premiere in the new Opel Zafira. With its four large glass panels, the system offers passengers a particularly pleasant, light atmosphere. Dark tinted glass and a power-operated shading system provide protection against strong sunlight. And the center roof console running down the length of the ceiling houses five different-sized compartments for additional storage space. The Zafira´s SAFETEC system ensures a high level of safety, combining all standard active and passive safety elements. These include ABS with electronic brake force distribution and cornering brake control, brake assist, the electronic stability program ESPPlus as well as a comprehensive restraint system with airbags in front, thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front seat passenger, and head curtain airbags for the first and second row. Additional passive safety equipment includes decoupling pedals (PRS, Pedal Release System), a safety belt warning system in front, and mountings for the ISOFIX child’s seat system on both outer seats in the second row. Active head restraints in front, a seat occupancy detection for the front passenger seat and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System TPMS are available as options. Lively and economical performance is ensured by the new Zafira’s wide range of engines. Customers can choose between three diesel and four gasoline units from the ECOTEC family with power outputs of 100 to 200 hp. The top-of-the-line engine is the 147 kW/ 200 hp 2.0 turbo gasoline unit, which takes the Zafira to a top speed of around 220 km/h. That is followed by a 2.2-liter gasoline direct injection engine (110 kW/150 hp) and a new 1.8-liter unit (103 kW/140 hp). The entry-level gasoline engine is a 1.6-liter unit (77 kW/ 105 hp) with fuel-saving TWINPORT technology. Three state-of-the-art 1.9-liter common-rail turbo-diesel engines with multiple direct injection round off the powertrain program for the new Zafira. The 1.9 CDTI units are offered in three output levels – 74 kW/100 hp, 88 kW/120 hp, 110 kW/150 hp – and are available with a maintenance-free Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Transmissions for the new Zafira include a six-speed manual gearbox (standard for 2.2 direct, 2.0 turbo and all 1.9 CDTI), a five-speed manual (standard for 1.6 TWINPORT and 1.8), a six-speed automatic with ActiveSelect function (optional for 1.9 CDTI with 120 and 150 hp) and a four-speed automatic (optional for 2.2 direct). In conjunction with the 1.8-liter gasoline engine, a further development of the Easytronic automated manual transmission is available. Text and images can be downloaded under www.media.opel.com. __________________ Last edited by TaHoE : 02-17-2005 at 01:55 PM.*

02-17-2005, 09:20 AM	#2 (permalink)
GMMediumDutyMQ 3.6 Liter SIDI V6 Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Motor City, MI Drives: '94 Buick Century Wagon Posts: 1,095	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa Looks nice. I've always liked the Zafiras, and this would definately be a nice replacement for the CSV, or addition to the Saturn lineup. Hey, wouldn't you drive a minivan with a 5-speed manual? Is it just me, or in that side view, does the front fascia look a bit like an Accord/Oddessy?

02-17-2005, 09:32 AM	#3 (permalink)
GN6 2.4 Liter SIDI ECOTEC Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 478	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa Yep. Replace Saturn's CSV with this thing. It looks a little smaller, but it adds to Saturns Euro image that they're shooting for.

02-17-2005, 12:44 PM	#4 (permalink)
paul8488 Firebird Concept (the turbine one) Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: France Drives: '09 Ford Ka, '85 Citroen GSA, '06 Yamaha YBR 125 Posts: 15,115	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa Well it's 100% clear where the Aura nose came from! I knew it was similar to the Opel nose, but it's closer than I thought! Even the tailights look the same. It's not a bad thing, just noticeable. __________________ *It's been swell, but the swelling's gone down.*

02-17-2005, 01:02 PM	#5 (permalink)
kain01 2.4 Liter SIDI ECOTEC Join Date: Jul 2003 Drives: Arctic White 1998 Z28 w/many upgrades to come Posts: 343	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa I say this thing could be redesigned into the next Pontiac Vibe so they could stop helping Toyota.

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02-17-2005, 01:10 PM	#6 (permalink)
johnd89 4.6 Liter Northstar V8 Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: In front of the PC! Posts: 1,973	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa that would be "ZAFIRA"-hehe-

02-17-2005, 01:21 PM	#7 (permalink)
gmsickofan 4.6 Liter Northstar V8 Join Date: May 2004 Location: Spring, Texas Posts: 1,921	Re: Geneva: Opel Zarifa This is what a Saturn minivan should be. Not some OHV, 4-speed powered clone of a Chevy van.

02-19-2005, 12:39 PM	#8 (permalink)
driverblogger 3.6 Liter SIDI V6 Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 1,222	Re: Geneva: Opel Zafira looks great

02-19-2005, 12:56 PM	#9 (permalink)
AMcA 4.4 Liter Supercharged Northstar Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Chicago Posts: 2,747	Re: Geneva: Opel Zafira Nice. Note the little Cadillac touch in the V shape of the rear window bottom. Absolutely, Saturn ought to be seling this. Last edited by AMcA : 02-24-2005 at 08:36 PM.

02-23-2005, 12:57 AM	#10 (permalink)
citric acid 4.4 Liter Supercharged Northstar Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 2,881	Re: Geneva: Opel Zafira To Saturn: Sell this, not the Relay. __________________

02-27-2005, 11:39 PM	#14 (permalink)
x2222 2.4 Liter SIDI ECOTEC Join Date: Jan 2003 Posts: 387	Re: Geneva: Opel Zafira gm can really learn something from opel interiors. And yeah, they really should have used this instead of the relay although it would have outshined the other three csv clones. __________________ Last edited by x2222 : 02-27-2005 at 11:42 PM.

02-28-2005, 08:02 AM	#15 (permalink)
pkd87 5.3 Liter Vortec V8 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Michigan Posts: 1,475	Re: Geneva: Opel Zafira WEll this should denfinatly help out GM in Europe.

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