We say The all-new, upmarket MPV is a decent car but competition in the MPV segment has risen sharply since the original Zafira hit the streets.Performance There two petrol engines plus three diesel units to move the Zafira Tourer along. The 2.0-litre CDTi diesel offers the least and most powerful choices with power outputs varying from 109bhp to 163bhp. The most powerful engine offers a 0-60mph acceleration time of 9.8 seconds, while the top speed is 129mph.Emissions The ‘green’ dedicated Ecoflex diesel engine offers the cleanest figures with CO2 emissions at 119g/km. This figure increases up to 148g/km with the most powerful petrol engine, the 163bhp unit.Driving Uneventful handling, which is unlikely to entertain the driver, but the Zafira Tourer works well on the motorways and holds its own in comparison to most other MPVs.Feel The steering is weighted enough for city driving but lacks feedback, while the general ride can become rough courtesy of the thumping suspension. On a more positive note, body roll is nicely controlled.Space The Zafira Tourer can pack seven passengers and still leave plenty of head and legroom, especially in the first two rows. The five rear seats can be folded flat as well for extra loading space. With all the seats up, the boot can handle 710 litres of luggage space.Equipment Entry level models are provided with air conditioning, a DAB radio and cruise control. Higher end models bring in some useful gadgets like parking sensors for instance.Price Pricing for the Zafira Tourer starts at £21,000.Quality The flexible seating system will be greatly appreciated by owners with large families. Inside the car feels much more polished than its predecessor. The interior is overall classy and road noise is minor on most road surfaces, although the big doors can generate some wind noise at high speed. The console and buttons are neatly laid out but a bit fiddly and reliability is generally questionable.Safety There are airbags for the first two rows and numerous driving safety features included standard like stability control. With enough extra cash owners can pack the Zafira Tourer with loads of other safety gadgets.Pros Upgraded seven seat system is comfortable and practical, cabin looks and feels smart, it’s well equipped and diesel engines are pretty clean.Cons The drive is subdued, rearmost seats can be uncomfortable for adults, ride and handling is overshadowed by other MPVs, satellite navigation option is unreliable.Alternatives Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, Renault Grand Scenic, Ford S-Max
