The hot OPC version of Opel's seven-seater Zafira, first shown at the recent Geneva motor show, will go on sale in Europe in October 2005, combining hot-hatch performance with the flexibility of an MPV.
It shares its 180kW, 320Nm two-litre turbo engine and six-speed manual transmission with the Astra OPC and replaces the GSi version of the outgoing Zafira.
GMSA's Tim Hendon told motoring.co.za the new Zafira would be launched in South Africa in the last quarter of 2005, with the OPC to follow in 2006.
Opel estimates that the Zafira OPC will reach 100km/h from a standstill in 7.2sec and go on to a top speed of 230km/h, making it the fastest production MPV on the market.
To ensure that the car can be agile and responsive through the bends - even with the vastly differing load weights of between one and seven passengers - Opel's IDSPlus electronic chassis control is fitted as standard.
Huge brakes (321mm discs at the front) with distinctive blue brake callipers ensure the VXR can stop safely even when fully laden.
The hot Zafira is distinguished by the characteristic VXR honeycomb grille, a larger front bumper with a central air intake and integrated fog lights. Deep side sill extensions lead to a new rear bumper incorporating twin trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes.
18" alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres and a spoiler on the tailgate complete the look; 19" wheels are available as an option.
Flight deck crew enjoy the comfort and support of Recaro sport seats in two-tone leather/fabric, the trim strips on the instrument and door panels are colour-coordinated to the seats and the sports steering wheel and gear lever incorporate the OPC logo.
Like its predecessor, the OPC uses the Flex7 seating system, allowing the Zafira to be turned from a seven to a six, five, four, three or two-seater in a matter of seconds without having to remove or stow away the seats.
The new Zafira range will go on sale in Europe in July, with the OPC model following in October.