(May 18, 2011) Vauxhall has confirmed that the Zafira Tourer concept, previewed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, will become a production reality in Europe, with first cars in UK showrooms by early 2012.

Called the Zafira Tourer, the new model will sit above the current Zafira model in Vauxhall’s line-up and is set to raise the bar for design, luxury, flexibility and innovation in the MPV sector.

The production car’s design, shown in these first official images, has deviated very little from the Geneva concept, illustrating design-chief, Mark Adams’ continued influence on the look of all new Vauxhall products, and reinforcing his "Sculptural artistry meets technical precision" mantra.



While the Zafira Tourer will continue to use Flex7 seating, which set new standards for seven-seat integration in the original 1999 Zafira, the system has evolved radically in the new car to offer even greater levels of flexibility, innovation and comfort. Improved material quality, more cabin space and an overwhelmingly airy cabin further define the Zafira Tourer from its compact MPV Zafira sibling.

The Zafira Tourer will also hold great driver appeal. A new chassis, using key components from the Insignia, with a longer wheelbase (complementing its 17.5-inch increase in overall length) and wider tracks, will provide outstanding dynamics, while offering occupants more cabin space and ride comfort. Vauxhall’s FlexRide adaptive damping system — a rarity in this class — will also be available as an option.

Emphasis has been placed on safety in the Zafira Tourer, with a number of driver-assist systems making a first appearance in the new model. Traffic Sign Recognition, Side Blind Spot Alert and Advance Park Assist — which helps drivers find an adequate parking space and guides them in to it — are among the option highlights.

Two new engines — a 1.4 Turbo gas and a 2.0 CDTi diesel (with three outputs) — join a 1.8-liter gas unit to offer a spread of power options from 110 horsepower to 165 horsepower.

The Zafira Tourer will receive its world debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show (Sept. 15-25).