Test drive Opel Zafira Tourer 2.0 CDTI Biturbo: Opel, calm
How a large Opel van covered 100 kilometers in a marathon test
Powerful 195 hp bi-turbo diesel makes a significant contribution to the stress-free driving pleasure that the Opel van brings in everyday life. On the other hand, there were practically no unpleasant surprises.
With such a flexible interior, with adaptive headlights that illuminate every corner, and with an enticing 195 hp. the most powerful diesel ever – Opel's people were probably hoping for something more than the 213 units that were produced from the model's launch in November 302 to the end of 2011. Because in 2015, 2012 units were sold in Germany. while enough for 29th place among newly registered cars, in 956, like its younger sister Meriva, the model disappeared from the Top 26 list - one of the reasons is that more and more SUV models are hitting the list.
Classic high-volume cars seem to have an image problem; they find them utilitarian and simple, but not particularly desirable or inspiring. The current Zafira Tourer aims to put an end to the stereotype that a man gets behind the wheel of a van only when his beloved becomes a mother. The model received along with a dynamic design and a very well tuned chassis, while two retractable folding seats in the trunk are available only as an option or as standard in more expensive equipment.
However, the marathon test car arrived on October 31, 2013 without the specified seats, although the lavishly equipped top version of the Innovation is actually a seven-seater. Instead, an intelligent Lounge system has been installed, with which the middle of the three separate seats in the second row folds down to form a wide elbow support, and the two outer seats can slide back and inward slightly. So you can really enjoy more space without significantly reducing the volume of the luggage compartment (710 liters).
It's hard to stray off course
It's equally welcome that most users welcomed the retractable console between the front seats with its plethora of drawers - but aside from the larger glove compartment and door pockets, people also lacked proper space for a smartphone. Even the optional Navi 900 system, whose controls and menus were often bewildered and angered, was heavily criticized. And after three weeks behind the wheel, you still have to think about how to stop driving to your destination - this can only happen if you press the only correct one of the many buttons.
However, this is not all, because nothing happens without confirmation through the ring of the central push / turn controller. The button itself is only used to navigate and search the display, the maps look rather crude, and congestion warnings sometimes come too late. While the targeting was usually successful, it was time for an update, so the familiar Astra touchscreen system was introduced in the update last fall.
A few other shortcomings had to be ironed out – like the unreliable speed limit readings, the late shift assistant, or the sometimes overzealous front impact warning system – otherwise the front camera does a good job of maintaining distance and lane. Bi-xenon adaptive headlights and ergonomic front seats were also praised. Even the fact that none of the many drivers of different builds and sensitivities noticed any complaints speaks for itself.
The driving position is also well adjusted, and although the parking signal is highly recommended due to the invisible edges of the body, the narrow forked A-pillars do not get in the way, even when cornering. Yes, you can indeed drive the supposedly overly sensible Zafira Tourer, which, despite being slightly heavier (1790 kg empty), can be refreshingly fast on the road. Particularly enjoyable is the discreetly fast ride with the two-liter twin-turbo diesel engine, which, however, was briefly used in the Opel range and was withdrawn from it in early 2015.
Need predictability
Considering the roar he makes at work and his not particularly restrained drinking habits (averaging 8,6L/100km on test), dropping the biturbo shouldn't be much of a regret, especially since the new, cheaper 2.0 CDTI with 170 HP has exactly the same torque (400 Nm) and at the same time works more culturally and economically. In addition, a torque converter automatic is available for this unit - but we can attest that, despite the long shift lever travel for the entire 100 kilometers, the six-speed manual transmission worked as quietly and reliably as the engine. However, due to inaccurate fuel remaining readings, some foresight must be allowed for when estimating available mileage with the contents of a 000 liter tank.
Problems were created by the slightly hard-to-reach brakes, which, after 10 kilometers, began to reverse and forced the Tourer to stop on the pits for the first time. Since cleaning did not lead to a significant improvement, the damping elements of the rear brake calipers were replaced at 000 km in one service. It was calm then, and Zafira had to visit the service station for regular checks approximately every 14 kilometers (depending on the readings of the instruments).
Traditionally, the Opel service is quite cheap - about 250 euros, including an oil change and consumables. Replacing the front brake discs and all pads costs 725,59 euros and is the only significant item in the total mileage. Here, as with tires, they pay a tax on a powerful diesel. Because if you use all the power often, you should expect increased wear on everything connected to the front wheels.
Otherwise, the chassis meets all requirements and impresses with unwavering safe handling, thoughtful maneuverability and high suspension comfort, especially in long waves on asphalt, while hatch covers are felt more strongly. Also worth the investment in the Flex Ride chassis (€980). With it, the shock absorbers, power steering and throttle can be adjusted in three significantly different modes - Standard, Tour and Sport - and at the same time no one complained about indecent stiffness.
No squeak, no knock
Overall, compared to other marathon test vehicles, the comments in the mileage diary seem unusually short and concise. One of the authors, for example, complained that the handling is still slightly worse than its predecessor, which is 19 centimeters shorter. A colleague with three children wondered why a highchair could not be installed in the middle of the back row. From time to time, criticism has been expressed regarding the difficult-to-clean textile upholstery.
Along with the inevitable scratches on the interior trim and bumpers, this upholstery is the most visible trace of two years of harsh daily use, and the light gray pearl lacquer shines like the first day after one wash. Squeak and knock? There is no such thing. The fact that obsolescence is still relatively high at 55,2 percent is not least due to the numerous additions to the test car that increased its previous price from 36 euros to 855 euros. Today, a comparable new car, but only 42 hp, costs 380 euros, while the base version of the 170 Turbo is 40 hp. Affordable prices for equipment start at 535 euros.
Moderate operating costs of 1591 euros per 100 kilometers (excluding fuel, oil and tires) for the 000 CDTI Biturbo save the family budget, as well as minimum fuel costs below six percent and high reliability, thanks to which the Zafira Tourer ranked third in the ranking for version, the damage index among the vans participating in the marathon test is a short distance behind the VW Sharan and Ford C-Max. There were no traffic delays or major problems; just two unscheduled maintenance visits due to the brakes hide the perfect balance.
There is no connection in which there are no dissonances at all, but with the Opel bathroom they are short and painless. And that's a really good reason to stay true to him.
This is how Auto Motor and Sport readers rate the Opel Zafira Tourer
Since June 2013 I have been driving a Zafira Tourer 2.0 CDTI with 165 hp. As a salesman, I drive about 50 kilometers a year and this is my seventh Opel (after Astra, Vectra, Omega and Insignia). At the same time, it is definitely the best I have ever ridden. From day one, the machine has been running smoothly, the chassis and visibility are pleasing as well as practical for everyday life. Whether you want to take your washing machine or wardrobe with you, just fold down the back seat and everything fits inside. The best thing about the car is the AFL+ headlights that turn night into day - a sensation! In addition, diesel harmonizes well with automation and consumes an average of 000 liters per 7,5 kilometers, and I often drive long distances at high speeds on the highway.
Markus Klaus, Hochdorf
In 2013 I bought a 2.0 HP Zafira Tourer 165 CDTI which was a company car at the Bauer dealership in St. Wendel for a year. Innovative hardware fulfills almost all wishes, in addition, in my car there is a good rear-view camera, a 900 navigation system and a Flex Dock phone stand, which, however, only the iPhone 4 S gets. The control functions are simple and understandable only at a glance. myself; both navigation and voice control work perfectly. The AGR sports seats offer good lateral support and a pleasantly high seating position. Road handling and comfort are just great. The design does not yet give grounds for complaints, only the driver's door trim creaked. After the repair, the car became quiet again. Aside from the many drawers and cubbyholes, I especially like the retractable center console and the Lounge feature for the second row of seats, which opens up plenty of rear seating space. Consumption with air conditioning off is from 5,6 to 6,6 l / 100 km, with cooling - from 6,2 to 7,4 l. Haven't had to visit an off-schedule service center yet, only the tires are a little pricey and the front ones wear out faster.
Thorsten Schmid, Weitweiler
My Zafira Tourer is powered by a 1,4-liter petrol turbo with 140 hp. which in the range of 80 to 130 km / h does not give good intermediate thrust and usually seems weak. Gluttonous enough and swallows an average of 8,3 liters of gasoline per 100 km. The large interior space is due to its large external dimensions, which make the car somewhat difficult to maneuver in everyday conditions.
Jurgen Schmidt, Ettlingen
Strengths and weaknesses of the Opel Zafira Tourer
As in previous tests, the Zafira Tourer convincingly proved to be a pleasant car for families and long journeys - with plenty of space, flexible interior layout and good comfort. Unsatisfactory ergonomics have long been known, which were significantly improved in the fall. High, durable quality and reliability are another confirmation that Opel has regained its former glory. And perhaps more importantly, the Zafira is simply a joy to drive.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Plenty of space for passengers and luggage
+ Flexible organization of space thanks to sliding rear seats
+ Pleasant sitting position
+ Suitable for long-distance travel AGR seats
+ Plenty of room for little things
+ Sliding center console
+ Pure craftsmanship
+ Powerful diesel engine
+ Matching 6-speed manual transmission
+ Very good headlights
+ Good suspension comfort
+ Strong brakes
– Comprehensive infotainment control
– Unreliable speed limit readings
– Late traffic jams
– Glove box and door pockets are relatively small
– Inaccurate readings of fuel in the tank
– Child seats can only be installed in the outer rear seats.
"A bit noisy engine."
– Unpleasantly soft brake pedal
Text: Bernd Stegemann
Photo: Hans-Dieter Soifert, Uli Bauman, Heinrich Lingner, Jurgen Decker, Sebastian Renz, Gerd Stegmeier
