Summer 2009
ICE-CREAM SUNDAY
Our Car
Vauxh all ZAFIRA VXR
Engine: 2.0-litre 16-valve turbo
Power output: 237bhp
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Maximum power: 240PS (176kW) @5600rpm
Maximum torque: 320Nm (236lb ft) @ 2450-5000rpm
Front-wheel drive
0-60mph: 7.2sec
Top speed: 144mph
Combined fuel economy: 29.4mpg
CO2: 230g/km
Armed with a 2.0-litre, 16 valve ECOTEC 4-cylinder turbo engine generating 237bhp and a stonking 236lb/ft of torque, the Zafira VXR will yell from 0-60mph in just 7.2 seconds, and on to a top speed of 144mph.
But power means nothing without precision, and the VXR also benefits from Vauxhall’s newly-developed IDS2-plus (Interactive Driving System) chassis and massive 321mm disc brakes.
Using sophisticated electronics previously only seen on supercars, the system integrates control of the Zafira’s driving stability control system (ESP), traction control Understeer Logic Control (ULC), ABS brakes and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) to offer drivers the ultimate in traction, road-holding and handling nous.
A lap-full of loose fillings is, however, the last thing you want from family transport, which is why CDC’s default setting artfully contrives to combine a remarkably pliant straight line ride with pin-sharp handling through the bends, a quick press of the ‘Sport’ switch on the dashboard stiffening the chassis set-up for even greater responsiveness and agility.
Complementing the Zafira VXR’s dramatic exterior styling, the interior combines all the flexible practicality you’ve come to expect from Vauxhall’s ingenious, easy-to-use Flex7® seating system with a whiff of sporting flair. Front-seat occupants enjoy the comfort and support of Recaro sports seats trimmed in leather, the dashboard and centre console are highlighted by a fabulous, piano-black lacquer finish, and the gear lever and perfectly-sized sports steering wheel are trimmed in grippy, tactile leather too.
