Driving Seat: Hottest Zafira.

Byline: Alistair COULL

IT'S long been billed as the daddy of the school run - but now Vauxhall's performance Zafira is quicker than ever.

Replacing the GSi, the new VXR tops the revamped compact MPV range and will cost pounds 21,995 when it officially goes on sale in October.

However, order books are open now for the 240bhp car, and its maker is claiming the Zafira VXR offers hot-hatch looks, performance and driving dynamics combined with the family-friendly flexibility of a seven-seat MPV.

The new VXR boasts an extra 40bhp than the GSi as it shares an engine with the recently announced Astra VXR.

With the aid of a six-speed manual gearbox, according to Vauxhall the revised Zafira can reach 60mph in 7.2 seconds and go on to reach a top speed of 144mph, making it the fastest production MPV in Britain.

The hottest 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 exhaust tailpipes. A tailgate spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look. But if you want more, 19-inch wheels can be specified at extra cost.

Inside, front seat occupants get to sit in Recaro sports seats, while the sports steering wheel and gearshift lever incorporate the VXR logo.

Like its predecessor, the VXR uses Vauxhall's 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.

On top of the standard equipment, buyers can specify options including electronic climate control for just pounds 250, a Bluetooth compatible mobile phone system for pounds 300 and front and rear parking sensors for pounds 350.

The VXR costs pounds 220 more than its predecessor, which broke the mould for what people carriers should be when it was launched in 2002.

But Zafira buyers don't have to stretch to the range-topping VXR to achieve a sporty look.

Vauxhall has created a styling pack for its new Zafira range, consisting of a rear lower skirt, rear roof spoiler, side sills and front lower spoiler.

It can be supplied and fitted by Vauxhall retailers in any one of the new Zafira's body colours for pounds 1,305.

Along with the style upgrade, the car maker is also offering a wide range of practical accessories designed to protect the Zafira from daily wear and tear.

These include a selection of floor mats from pounds 19, a rear seat protection cover for pounds 39, and load sill protective film at pounds 26, which helps to prevent the rear bumper being scratched when loading and unloading the vehicle.

Other items on the options list include a dog guard to ensure safe travelling space for both pets and passengers. There is also an accompanying divider grid to maximise the space available in the back of the car.

All items can be bought from any Vauxhall retailer or by shopping online at www.

vauxhall.co.uk/accessories