Faults:

Clutch, ABS, suspension mount, oil leak, interior plastics broke, plus consumables - all the typical high mileage stuff. No major issues.

General Comments:

Bought this due to a growing family. Not normally a vehicle I'd choose (I prefer saloons/hatchbacks) but an MPV was required.

The extra space is great so I do get the appeal of these things. Very good visibility and very spacious, makes long journeys much more relaxing. Design model is also well equipped. Comfortable seats and driving position.

The Zafira is OK to drive. The 1.6 petrol struggles a bit when loaded, but can be surprisingly economical - I've had as much as 40 mpg on a long drive. Realistically most people will average 36 mpg. But I'd avoid the diesels, I have heard they are not reliable. But this simple old 1.6 16v unit rarely gives trouble if serviced correctly.

We bought approved used back in 2018 - initially the Vauxhall main dealer was OK - but as soon as it was out of warranty they were horrifically cold with us. Better to find a cheap independent for service/repairs as it ages.

They are as cheap as it gets in the used market right now - worth a look if you just need a spacious family vehicle.

Faults:

Lots;

Engine check light illuminated.

Exhaust fell off.

Rattling suspension.

Worn interior. Exterior rough too.

It goes on, and I've only had it a couple of years.

General Comments:

Really basic and boring, and I could leave it at that.

Clearly a rough example, only bought it as a cheap family run about.

Exclusiv model is poverty specification. No fancy electrics.

1.6 petrol is very slow, does a good 40 mpg though.

Spacious and comfortable interior.

Far too dull, wouldn't buy another.

Faults:

Changed timing belt early, as a precaution, and water pump.

New brakes, discs and pads, seized calipers at front.

Broken springs, replaced at MOT.

DPF light came on, but a long drive and firm acceleration cleared it, has not been on since.

General Comments:

This 1.7 CDTi Zafira is my daily driver, and being a 2012 model is one of the first with the "new" 1.7 diesel engine, an improvement over the previous 1.9 CDTi which was more problematic. It has been generally reliable, despite the wear and tear above.

To drive it is nothing exciting, it is not a fast car by any means, but adequate enough for every day driving. You'll get around 55 miles per gallon on average, a little less fully loaded.

Interior is very spacious and I like being in this car. The Design is near top of range and has many electric features to keep you happy.

To look at it is pretty sharp for a people carrier - mine has alloy wheels and tinted windows, looks very smart. Hard to say anymore about it, it is just the typical family MPV that is worth a look if you need something practical, used prices are excellent and you can get good deals on this older generation Zafira; the newer model that came out in 2014 are still a little expensive to buy used.

Finally if considering one of these cars do check it has had the dealer recall for fire risk! I believe as mentioned on other reviews it has something to do with the heater/fan transistor that blows and is a fire risk, but most have been sorted under warranty by now.