The Opel Antara 2.4 i 16V ECOTEC Automatic, produced between 2006 and 2010, represented a key offering in Opel’s foray into the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Antara lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between affordability, practicality, and a more refined driving experience compared to base models. The Antara itself was Opel’s response to the growing popularity of SUVs in Europe, sharing its platform – the GM Theta – with vehicles like the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue. This variant, with its 2.4-liter engine and automatic transmission, was primarily targeted at families and drivers seeking a comfortable and capable all-weather vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Antara |
| Generation | Antara |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (150 Hp) ECOTEC Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 2400 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2405 cm3 (146.76 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1420 l (50.15 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4575 mm (180.12 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1704 mm (67.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2707 mm (106.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Antara 2.4 i was the Z24SEP engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant belonging to Opel’s ECOTEC family. This engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient breathing. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, a common setup for engines of this era. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. This output was considered adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended purpose, but not particularly sporty. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
Paired with the engine was a five-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, wasn’t known for its particularly quick shifts or fuel efficiency compared to manual alternatives. The automatic transmission was a key factor in the Antara’s appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Antara 2.4 i Automatic offered a comfortable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The engine’s torque peak at 2400 rpm meant that most of its usable power was available at lower to mid-range speeds, making it suitable for everyday driving. Compared to the more powerful 2.8-liter V6 Antara, the 2.4-liter felt noticeably less responsive. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy and lower running costs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Antara 2.4 i Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and upgraded audio systems. Safety features included ABS brakes and front airbags. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The Antara’s cargo area was also reasonably sized, with 370 liters of space with the rear seats up and 1420 liters with them folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Antara utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a coil spring suspension at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The Antara 2.4 i was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The all-wheel-drive system, a key selling point of the Antara, provided enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Antara 2.4 i Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable SUV. However, it wasn’t considered a class leader in terms of performance or handling. Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Antara offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and brand reputation. The 2.4-liter engine offered a good balance between fuel economy and performance, but the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness. The Antara’s all-wheel-drive system was a significant advantage in regions with harsh winters.
Legacy
The Opel Antara, and specifically the 2.4 i Automatic variant, has become a relatively affordable and reliable used car option. The ECOTEC engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, is generally considered to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The automatic transmission, if well-maintained, can provide years of service. Today, the Antara 2.4 i Automatic represents a practical and affordable choice for buyers seeking a compact SUV with all-wheel drive, offering a comfortable ride and reasonable running costs.
