Opel Zafira Life receives a new diesel engine: 2.2-liter unit and 180 hp
Under-the-hood upgrade: Opel Zafira Life and Vivaro switch to a 2.2-liter diesel engine
In an era where most manufacturers are cutting engine capacity, Opel is making a bold move for diesel fans. The Zafira Life MPV gets a 2.2-liter unit, promising more torque and optimized efficiency for passenger transportation.
If you're the type who believes that "there's no replacement for displacement," the news from Rüsselsheim will make you happy. Opel has decided to retire the old 2.0-liter engine in favor of a new 2.2-liter diesel unit capable of delivering 180 horsepower.
Although the power increase seems modest on paper (+3 HP compared to the previous version), the secret lies in the way the engine "breathes". With a generous 400 Nm of torque managed exclusively by an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Zafira Life becomes a much more relaxed long-distance partner, whether we are talking about the short version or the giant Zafira XL.
Performances: VIP shuttle sprint
Although it is not a track car, the new model's figures are respectable for a passenger vehicle that can accommodate up to 9 passengers:
- 0-100 km/h: 10.6 seconds;
- Maximum speed: 185 km/h;
- Combined consumption (WLTP): Approximately 7.1 l/100 km.
The same mechanical recipe was also implemented on the Vivaro utility model, a sign that the Stellantis group is counting on the reliability of this engine block for fleets that accumulate hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
Opel Zafira Life on the Romanian market: Between family and business
In Romania, the Zafira Life has managed to create a solid niche for itself. While the previous generations of Zafira were compact family MPVs, the current model (based on a utility vehicle platform) has conquered the VIP, hotel and car rental sectors.
1. Price and accessibility
In the current economic context (February 2026), the starting price for the new Opel Zafira Life with the 2.2-liter 180 HP engine is around 37,500 - 41,000 Euros (VAT included), depending on the body length and features. Although it seems like a considerable amount, the model remains a "down-to-earth" alternative to its premium rivals.
2. Top of the competition on our roads
Zafira Life does not have an easy mission in Romania, fighting with tough names:
- Volkswagen Multivan/Transporter: The uncrowned king of the segment, but with a significantly higher price.
- Ford Tourneo Custom: Probably the biggest direct rival, very popular in Romanian fleets due to its extensive service network.
- Mercedes-Benz V-Class: For those who want luxury, but at a price that often doubles the budget of an Opel.
- Toyota Proace Verso: The platform "brother", which relies on the extended warranty specific to the Japanese brand.
3. How well does it sell?
Although the exact sales figures for 2025 show a massive public orientation towards SUVs, the Zafira Life maintains a stable market share in the Van segment. In Romania, the model is appreciated for its comfortable suspension (softer than the Ford) and for the fact that, in the XL version, you can transport 8 people and their luggage without making an impossible puzzle in the trunk.
The short verdict: The new 2.2-liter engine doesn't revolutionize the segment, but it gives the Zafira Life the "lungs" it needs to remain competitive in a market where diesel is still king on the long haul.