Vauxhall Zafira

Vauxhall Zafira Buying Alternatives

If you have a large family to ferry, what options are there to the Zafira?

Auto Express Car Reviews

June 2002

Rating:

The clever Zafira is one of our second-hand car favourites, with its versatile Flex7 seating, car-like dynamics and comfortable ride. But the Vauxhall is in big demand and prices remain strong, meaning you have to pay top money if you have a large family to ferry. So here's four other first-rate options worth a look...
Fiat Multipla
The only one of our quartet that doesn't seat seven, the Multipla is still an attractive choice, in packaging, if not appearance. Two rows of three-abreast benches mean there's plenty of room for six, while the funky Fiat features the wackiest control deck this side of the Starship Enterprise. Those unconventional looks keep prices low. Don't pay more than GBP8,500 for a 1999 1.6.
Engines: 1.6-litre petrol; 1.9-litre diesel. Years: 1999-present. Prices: GBP7,500-12,000
Peugeot 406 Estate
In Family spec, the 406 estate keeps its sixth and seventh seats under the floor. Lift the trap and two rear-facing chairs glide out, with three-point belts. For travelling five-up, you can leave them flat in the floor and have one of the most stylish and useful load-luggers on the market. A wise and versatile choice, especially the excellent HDi diesels.
Engines: 1.8, 2.0 and 3.0-litre petrol; 1.9, 2.0, 2.1 and 2.2-litre diesel. Years: 1996-present. Prices: GBP4,700-15,800
Kia Sedona
The Sedona won the MPV class in this year's Used Car Honours, and not without good reason. For no more than the price of a second-hand Zafira, the Kia offers the practicality of a full-size people carrier. The Korean manufacturer also gives a three-year, 100,000-mile warranty, which means that you can pick up a year-old example for as little as GBP11,000 and enjoy worry-free motoring.
Engines: 2.5-litre petrol; 2.9-litre diesel. Years: 1999-present. Prices: GBP8,000-14,250
Land Rover Discovery
An older, but no less worthy choice, the original Discovery offers a seven-seat option, a family-friendly interior and a legendary image. Ignore the thirsty V8 petrol versions - they're expensive to run and can prove difficult to sell on. The 300 Tdi diesel is a far better choice, with good torque for towing and reasonable fuel economy, although it's harsh at high revs.
Engines: 3.9-litre petrol; 2.5-litre diesel. Years: 1994-1998 Prices: GBP5,300-16,800