New Opel Zafira In Depth

Press Release

Design

 

Confident and dynamic look

 

·         Harmonious front end styling with integrated pedestrian protection

·         Best aerodynamics in compact van class

 

The new Zafira’s looks are dynamic, sporty and confident. Its front end is unmistakably related to the successful Astra, but with the formal language reinterpreted in compact van format. The design of the Zafira’s front end also had to satisfy additional pedestrian protection requirements. Malcolm Ward, its Chief Designer, is particularly proud of the result: “We have transformed legal requirements relating to pedestrian protection from a potential disadvantage into an visual advantage. The harmonious, pioneering front-end design of the new Zafira will make its mark in the compact van class.�

 

From the front, from the side, from the rear – the new Zafira is dynamic from every angle. This dynamism comes from the van’s balanced proportions and the ideal relationship between length (4467 mm), width (1801 mm with folded mirrors) and height (1635 mm without roof rails). From this starting point the designers have made use of technically configured details, distinctive graphic elements and the interaction of taut surfaces with striking lines to create an emphatically dynamic appearance that clearly distinguishes the new Zafira from its competitors.

 

The front end is dominated by the wide, trapezoidal-shaped, chrome-framed radiator grill with Opel logo and characteristic chrome crossbar, which flows seamlessly into the engine hood. With its prominent crease, this is a classic Opel design feature. The central fold and the athletic V-shape are major elements of a common styling approach running through the interior to the rear. Together with the large, central air intake beneath the front bull bar, they further underline the dynamic front end styling.

 

The dynamic front end conceals a new safety concept

 

Although not evident at first glance, Opel’s designers and engineers have incorporated advanced passive pedestrian protection measures into the Zafira’s front end concept. Energy-absorbing elements around the bumper and an engine hood specifically designed for improved cushioning in the event of an impact help to reduce the risk of serious leg and head injuries to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists in the event of a collision. The new Zafira is the first Opel model and one of the first cars at all to comply with EU pedestrian safety guidelines for new models that will come into force on October 1, 2005.

 

Formal harmony and development of Opel’s design language

 

Strongly-defined, arrow-shaped “tucks� at the front and rear make the Zafira appear shorter than it actually is – even though the new model is 150 millimeters longer than its predecessor. The newcomer’s compact, well-proportioned dimensions, with the width (+ 59 mm) also increased, are emphasized by the three-dimensional design of the headlamps integrated into the Zafira’s profile. Their facetted surfaces and technically interesting details are further evidence of Opel design language moving towards greater self-confidence and autonomy.

 

An aerodynamic roofline and a bold profile define the silhouette

 

A striking feature of the Zafira’s silhouette is the roofline, the rear section of which slopes gently away, and the tapered lateral belt line, which interact with each other to create a visual impression of dynamism. This is strengthened by the long wheelbase (2703 mm). Added to this are the flowing transition of the A-pillar into the front side panel of the body and the C-pillar, positioned well back, which facilitates access to the rear seats and also enhances the view for their occupants. In addition to the steep side panels, the broad, powerful shoulders extending through from front to rear enhance the impression of stability and strength. The side view is also notable for the distinctively shaped wheel arches suitable for wheels up to 18 inches in diameter, which are available for the new Zafira in this size from the factory for the first time. Together with the wide track (1488 mm at the front and 1510 mm at the rear), the well-defined side sills underline the vehicle’s athletic visual image.

 

The roof of the new Zafira slopes away gently at the rear, thereby emphasizing the aerodynamic lines of this compact van, which has a drag coefficient of c_D = 0.31 – the best in its class. The passengers do not incur any loss of space, however. On the contrary: despite its dynamic exterior lines, the new Zafira offers the generous interior space for which Opel is well known. Many of its dimensions are again greater than those of its predecessor. The spacious feeling is further enhanced by the upright side windows, which convey a pleasantly light, airy sensation. The large rear doors provide easy access and simplify the fitting of children’s safety seats in the second row. The long door windows improve both the view for rear passengers and all-round visibility for the driver.

 

A powerfully-shaped rear end with easy access to the load area

 

The new Zafira’s dynamic stature is also evident when it is seen from the rear. The designers have transferred the V-shape of the front to the tailgate and rear bumper as a distinctive styling element. The wide, panoramically curved rear window provides an ideal view out of the back of the vehicle and creates an even greater impression of power. The three-dimensional tail lamp units with chrome surrounds highlight the body’s broad shoulders. An elegant chrome strip, the center of which conceals a sensor field for unlocking the tailgate, joins the tail lamps visually. The third brake light (which uses light-emitting diodes) lies flush within the upper edge of the tailgate. The distinctive rear-end design has practical benefits: the tailgate lifts to a wide angle to provide access for loading, while the low loading lip permits easy loading and unloading of the spacious, versatile load area.

 

Innovative panorama roof makes an outstanding design statement

 

The optional panorama roof (standard on the Cosmo) celebrates its world premiere in the new Opel Zafira and makes a very special kind of visual statement. With its dark tinted glass, the system, together with the silver-colored roof rails, makes the compact van highly elegant in appearance, and also offers passengers a particularly pleasant, bright atmosphere.

 

Four large glass panels ensure a light-filled interior and at the same time provide a view out of the top of the vehicle – especially welcome during trips to the mountains, for example.

 

When the sun’s rays are strong, the dark tinted glass prevents the interior from becoming too warm. A fully-synchronized power-operated shading system can be activated if required: each of the four glass panels is simultaneously covered with a sunshade. A further benefit of the panorama roof is that the middle section houses a roof console extending along its full length and incorporating five different-sized, outward-opening storage compartments. The special design of the panorama roof means that headroom at all seven seats is virtually unchanged.

 

Opel presented its concept of a panoramic glass roof system with integrated storage compartments for the first time in the “Snowtrekker� compact van study. This concept vehicle had its debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2000 and was well-received by the press and the public. Opel designers and engineers have now developed this innovative roof concept to production readiness for the new Zafira.