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The large Opel Zafira minivan returned to the brand’s lineup in 2019 under the name Zafira Life, helping distinguish it from the previous generation Zafira Tourer passenger model. After a 2024 refresh, Opel simplified the naming strategy by dropping the “Life” suffix. Today, the vehicle is once again called simply Zafira, although the naming depends on trim level.
In Germany, the entry version with black bumpers, basic seating, and a simplified interior is sold as the Vivaro Kombi, while the Zafira name applies starting with the mid-level Edition trim and continues through the flagship GS model.
For buyers, the name split is a quick shortcut: “Vivaro Kombi” signals a more utilitarian, work-focused setup, while “Zafira” points you toward the better-equipped passenger versions meant to feel more like a family or shuttle vehicle.
Flexible Seating and Practical Layout
Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika.
The base Vivaro Kombi comes standard as a nine-passenger vehicle, featuring a two-seat front passenger bench alongside the driver. Higher trims typically include eight seats as standard, though buyers can configure the interior with either nine seats for maximum capacity or six seats for a more comfortable, executive-style layout.
Like many vehicles in the Stellantis commercial van ecosystem, the current Zafira is part of the large K0 family of light commercial vehicles, meaning it shares its underlying engineering with French-developed models from across the group. The Opel branding reflects positioning rather than unique platform development.
Until 2022, the Zafira Life with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine was also assembled in Kaluga, Russia, at the PSMA Rus facility. Production there ended when Western automakers withdrew from the Russian market.
Diesel Returns With a New 2.2-Liter Engine
Powertrain availability has shifted over time by market and trim. In Germany, Opel currently sells the Zafira and Vivaro Kombi with a choice of electric or diesel powertrains.
Opel now offers the Zafira with a new 2.2-liter turbo diesel that produces 180 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and certified to Euro 6e.
Opel quotes 0 to 62 mph in 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 115 mph for the 2.2-liter diesel when paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing and Body Styles
Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika.
In Germany, diesel pricing starts at about $47,500 for the Vivaro Kombi, $50,000 for the Zafira Edition, and $58,500 for the Zafira GS, which adds upgraded upholstery and additional comfort features.
The Vivaro Kombi is available only in the shorter body configuration measuring 196 inches in length, while Zafira models can also be ordered in the extended XL version, which stretches to 210 inches and provides significantly more cargo capacity behind the third row.
A Practical Alternative in a Changing Market
Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika.
The return of diesel power highlights the continued importance of efficient long-distance people movers in Europe, even as manufacturers expand electric offerings. Large passenger vans like the Zafira occupy a niche that electric vehicles still struggle to fill, particularly when it comes to long-range travel with heavy loads and multiple passengers.
By introducing the new Multijet Evo engine, Opel ensures the Zafira remains competitive for families, shuttle services, and commercial passenger transport operators who still rely on diesel efficiency and range.
This article originally appeared on Autorepublika.com and has been republished with permission by Guessing Headlights. AI-assisted translation was used, followed by human editing and review.
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