The compact seven-seater wins its class with the low-emission and ultra-economical 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX turbo engine. CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) gives particularly clean combustion in the four-cylinder engine.

With a claimed fuel consumption of 4.7 kilograms (7.2 m³) high-grade natural gas per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle, the 110 kW/150 hp Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX model emits 129 g/km CO_2,which earns it the German A energy efficiency label.

Opel’s CNG ecoFLEX engines are optimised to run on natural gas, biogas or any combination of the two, as well as petrol. Opel states that CNG and biogas cost less than gasoline or diesel, and in terms of kilometers driven, are cheaper than liquefied petroleum gas.

In Germany, the government has introduced a tax benefit regulation for the use of natural gas as a fuel until the end of 2018 at least. This recognises its environmental friendliness because natural gas vehicles emit up to 25% less CO₂, up to 80% less nitrogen and are free of benzol and soot particles. If 100% biogas is used as fuel, the vehicle’s carbon footprint is almost zero.