Vauxhall’s Zafira Tourer has been named Best MPV at Practical Caravan magazine’s Towcar Awards 2012.

The Practical Caravan awards, backed by What Car? magazine and The Camping and Caravanning Club, are based on a vigorous and thorough towcar assessment. Each car is tested by a panel of eight judges for its towing ability, buying and owning costs, drive quality when not towing and practicality.

“The Zafira Tourer really comes into its own when towing,” said awards judge Nigel Donnelly, Haymarket Outdoor Leisure Group’s editor-in-chief – digital. “At the legal limit and beyond the Zafira Tourer is a relaxing car to tow with. With plenty of power and torque, the 2.0-litre engine pulled car and caravan from 30-60mph in 14.1 seconds. Braking showed the shortest stopping distance in this class. The Zafira Tourer offers strong performance, good stability and space for seven.”

“We’re delighted Zafira Tourer has won the Best MPV title at the Towcar Awards 2012,” said Peter Hope, Vauxhall’s marketing director. “The Towcar of the Year awards are an industry standard and by far the most prestigious event in the caravanning calendar.”