FAMILY life doesn't have to mean kids get all the toys!

Vauxhall has just revealed its hot version of the new Zafira, and it offers hot-hatch looks, performance and driving dynamics that - combined with its seven seats - promises to beef up the school run.

The new model will replace the GSi version of the outgoing Zafira.

However, before that particular takeover in October, there will be a line-up of new Zafiras unveiled in July, powered by diesel and petrol engines, providing power outputs of 100bhp to 200bhp, and adding a new 1.9-litre clean and economical common rail turbo diesel.

The new models are also longer at 176inches/4467mm (by six inches/150mm), 70ins/1776mm wider (1.5 inches/34mm) and a shade taller at 64.4/1637mm than the outgoing versions.

Inside, the changes include a gear lever positioned higher on the dashboard, with a u-shaped aircraft style hand brake lever also integrated into the centre console.

It was back in 1999 that Zafira was launched as the first multi-purpose vehicle with a third row of seats that could be completely folded down and stowed away. It is known as the Flex7 system.

To date, around 1.4 million Zafiras have been produced with 15 per cent of them sold in the United Kingdom.

The July models will feature an optional innovative panorama roof system, with four large dark-tinted glass panels with a power-operated shading system. The centre roof console running the length of the ceiling has five different-sized storage compartments.

Getting back to the VXR model, it is powered by a 240PS, 320Nm 2.0-litre turbo engine that it shares with the Astra VXR. Coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, it is estimated that the Zafira VXR will hit 60mph from standstill in 7.2 seconds, and go on to reach an over-the-top top speed, making it the fastest production multi-purpose vehicle in Britain.

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 - Vauxhall has fitted the Zafira with an innovative electronic chassis control fitted as standard. Huge brakes (321mm discs at the front) help with the braking, especially when fully laden.

The Zafira's dramatic look is underlined by the exterior styling, with the VXR trademark 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. A tailgate-topping spoiler and massive 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look. Super car-sized 19-inch alloys are an option.

Front seat occupants enjoy the comfort and support of Recaro sport seats in two-tone leather/fabric. Trim strips on the instrument and door panels are colour-coordinated to the seats, and the sports steering wheel and gearshift lever incorporate the VXR logo. Like its predecessor, the VXR uses the ingenious and easy-to-use Flex7 seating system, which allows 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.

Using only five seats, the luggage compartment is 620-litres, 20 litres more than earlier models.

Updated: 11:05 Friday, April 01, 2005