The good-looking next generation Opel Zafira plans to dramatically break the mundane MPV mould with bright new ideas and clever options when it is launched in South Africa next year.

The good-looking next generation Opel Zafira plans to dramatically break the mundane MPV mould with bright new ideas and clever options when it is launched in South Africa next year.

When the first-generation Opel Zafira was launched internationally in 1999, the compact MPV immediately shot to the top of global sales charts, and South Africa was no exception. In its 2001 road test, Car Magazine commended the MPV's styling and its most endearing feature - the innovative Flex-7 seating system, which simply allows the its extra seats to be folded away.

The second-generation retains its clever seating system with the ability to transform from a seven- to a two-seater in seconds. But new technologies, like the panorama roof system with integrated storage compartments, will also début in the next Zafira.

Its look borrows heavily from the latest Astra and reflects the new family face of Opel. The characteristic V-shaped tapering at the front merges with the rear crease line and complements the MPV's larger body proportions.

On the inside, the cabin is driver-oriented and all the controls are within easy reach. The new instrument panel is simple and uncluttered and has a large easy-to-read monitor to display the infotainment system's details.

Its long wheelbase (2,7 m) offers even more room for the three rows of passengers and a bigger cargo area. Aside from its bigger load capacity (the Zafira's maximum capacity of 1 820 litres is 120 litres more than its predecessor), the cargo space with the five-seat configuration remains generous at 645 litres.

The front passenger seat can be ordered with a foldable seat back that can be transformed into a "table", while a large storage area under the seat can be used to stow additional items. The MPV is also available with the new FlexOrganiser cargo management system for the luggage compartment first seen in the Astra Caravan (station wagon).

The optional panoramic roof has four large dark-tinted panels with an electrically-operated shading system and a clever storage facility. A centre console running down the length of the roof houses five storage compartments, and there are up to 30 extra storage spaces tucked away in the Zafira's interior.

However, safety remains important and this people carrier uses Opel's Safetec system, which includes ABS with EBD and CBC, brake assist and the company's advanced ESP Plus programme. Front and thorax/side airbags for the front occupants and curtain airbags for the front and outer seats in the second row form part of the standard safety equipment list. Additional safety features include active head restraints and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

In Europe, a range of petrol and diesel engines with displacements ranging from 1,6- to 2,2-litres will power the Zafira.

GMSA's product communications manager Tim Hendon told CARtoday.com on Thursday, that the MPV's local line-up had not been decided yet. He added thought that local derivatives could receive the new 103 kW 1,8-litre petrol engine, the current 147 kW turbocharged 2,0-litre petrol engine, and at least one diesel engine.

According to Hendon, the local details for the Zafira, expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2006, will be finalised within the next month or two.

The range will later be expanded with a more powerful OPC version with a potent 176 kW of power on tap . . . .

Original article from Car