HOW do you build on the success of a super-selling people carrier?

Simple. Produce another bigger and more refined one and place it above your best-seller in the range.

That was the General Motors move with the creation of the Zafira Tourer, an upmarket vehicle with all the versatility of the supremely successful Zafira, but with an altogether more luxurious feel and the striking ‘blade’ design styling used on the Insignia.

With prices starting at about £21,000, the sharp handling, smooth riding Tourer has the availability of a ‘lounge seating’ system offering second-row passengers limousine-style luxury; a clever, versatile sliding storage system between the front seats; an in-built bicycle carrier that holds up to four cycles and a panoramic windscreen and sunroof.

The improvements to the interior are matched by a boost to handling, comfort and the technology on offer.

One optional feature is a camera-based system that helps prevent collisions and encourages drivers to keep a safe distance from the car in front. It also incorporates traffic sign recognition, that identifies key road signs, such as speed-limit warnings, no overtaking signs and traffic restrictions.

In addition, there is the option of two new satnav systems that both use SD card technology, allowing not only the regular points of interest (POIs) to be shown, but also the ability for further POIs to be downloaded and stored via a USB connection on the device.

Another new feature on both systems shows not only the fastest and shortest routes, but also the one on which a driver can expect to use the least amount of fuel.

The top-of-the-range device has the ability to recognise voice commands in up to six languages to control navigation, radio, CD and USB connection.

It also has a log book function which identifies journeys with a trip number and precisely records items like starting point and destination, route length and the time needed for the trip.

For company car drivers, it also has the benefit of allowing all data to be stored on a USB stick for external use. The system can even separate data to show private and business trips individually.

Above all else, space remains the key factor in buyers opting for a people carrier and the Zafira does not disappoint with a total carrying space of up to 65 cu ft (1,860 litres) and more than 30 in-cabin storage spaces.

Since 1999, the two versions of the Vauxhall Zafira have dominated the compact multi-purpose vehicle sector in the UK.

Across Europe, well over two million have been sold, with almost a quarter of those sales coming from the UK.

The Tourer will only help Vauxhall maintain that solid sales success.

AT A GLANCE

  • Insurance group: 16A (1-50)
  • Fuel consumption (Combined): 68.9mpg
  • Top speed: 120mph s Length: 465.8cm/183.4in
  • Width: 188.4cm/74in
  • Luggage capacity: 25 cu ft (five seats in place)
  • Fuel tank capacity: 12.7 gallons/58 litres
  • CO2 emissions: 109g/km
  • Warranty: 100,000 miles