Used Vauxhall Zafira for sale near Middlesbrough

CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.7%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 150
Average Price: Around £3,100

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) is the second generation of this compact MPV, based on the Astra platform and designed as an affordable seven-seater. While not glamorous, it excels in practicality, offering impressive passenger space, especially in the middle row, and a versatile Flex7 seating system that was revolutionary for its time. With the third row folded, boot space expands significantly from a tiny 140 litres to 645 litres, and up to 1,820 litres with all rear seats flat. Engine options include various petrols (1.6, 1.8, 2.0 turbo, 2.2) and diesels (1.9 CDTi, later 1.7), with the post-boost 1.6-litre petrol often recommended for its balance. A facelift in 2008 brought minor tweaks and safety improvements, and a sporty VXR model offered a more dynamic driving experience.

Driving dynamics prioritise comfort over sportiness, making it suitable for long motorway trips, though its ride can be firm. The interior is utilitarian, reflecting its pre-touchscreen era, with average quality plastics. Running costs are generally low, with used examples being very affordable. While diesels offer better MPG, petrol engines are simpler and cheaper to maintain, with the 1.6-litre being a good economical choice. Regular maintenance includes water pump/belt replacements and cambelt changes, and independent garages are recommended for servicing. Despite some reliability concerns, a well-inspected Zafira offers excellent value as a practical family car.

Best for: Budget-conscious families, those needing flexible 7-seat practicality, buyers looking for an affordable and versatile MPV, or an oddball performance car (VXR).

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising premium interiors, cutting-edge infotainment, sporty handling (outside of VXR), or those sensitive to potential reliability issues without thorough inspection.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Zafira if: You're on a budget, need flexible 7-seat practicality, want an affordable and versatile MPV, or an oddball performance car (VXR).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise premium interiors, cutting-edge infotainment, sporty handling (outside of VXR), or are concerned about potential reliability issues without thorough inspection.

Competitive Position: The Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2014) is a highly practical and affordable choice in the used compact MPV market. Its flexible Flex7 seating system and generous cargo space make it ideal for families. While it may not offer the driving dynamics of a Ford S-Max or the premium feel of some rivals, its low running costs and sheer value for money are compelling. The VXR variant also provides a unique, affordable performance option. However, buyers should be mindful of potential reliability issues and ensure a thorough inspection.

Read our full Vauxhall Zafira Review

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