Used Vauxhall Zafira for sale near Clacton-on-sea

CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 140
Average Price: Around £3,300

Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2014) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Lots of car for not much money	Reliability is a serious concern
Performance models are surprisingly good fun	Disappointing interior quality
Space for up to seven with clever and flexible seating	The Zafira Tourer is a better car, if your can stretch your budget

Quick Summary

The Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2014), the second-generation compact MPV, is essentially a stretched Vauxhall Astra, offering affordable seven-seater practicality. It features a revolutionary Flex7 seating system, providing impressive passenger space and a highly configurable interior, though the third row is best for children. Boot space is limited to 140 litres with all seats up, but expands to 645 litres with the third row folded, and a massive 1,820 litres with all rear seats flat.

While not designed for dynamic driving, the Zafira prioritises comfort for longer journeys. Engine options include various petrol and diesel units, with the 1.6-litre petrol often recommended for its balance. The interior is utilitarian and lacks modern infotainment, but running costs are generally low due to affordable parts and widespread mechanical familiarity. However, potential buyers should be aware that reliability, especially concerning water pumps and cam belts, is a significant factor to consider.

Best for: Drivers on a budget, those needing a practical and flexible seven-seater for family use, or buyers interested in the surprisingly fun VXR model.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising reliability without thorough pre-purchase checks, those desiring a premium interior or modern infotainment, or drivers seeking dynamic handling.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Zafira if: You're on a budget, seeking a practical and flexible seven-seater for family use, or are interested in the surprisingly fun VXR model.

Consider alternatives if: Reliability is your top priority without extensive pre-purchase checks, you desire a higher quality interior, modern tech, or a more dynamic driving experience.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2014) is a highly affordable and practical used seven-seater, offering exceptional seating flexibility with its Flex7 system. While it may not excel in driving dynamics, interior quality, or modern features compared to some rivals, its low purchase price and inexpensive parts make it a strong value proposition for budget-conscious families. However, its reputation for reliability issues means thorough inspections are crucial for prospective buyers.

Read our full Vauxhall Zafira Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.