The Opel Antara 3.2 i V6 24V ECOTEC, produced from 2006 to 2010, represented Opel’s entry into the burgeoning compact SUV segment in Europe. Positioned as a more premium offering within the Antara range, this variant featured a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 engine paired exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of comfort, space, and all-wheel-drive capability, offering a step up in performance and refinement compared to the four-cylinder models available. The Antara itself was based on the GM Theta platform, shared with vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox and Suzuki XL7, reflecting Opel’s close ties with General Motors at the time.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Antara |
| Generation | Antara |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 i V6 24V (227 Hp) ECOTEC |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.4 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.2 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 227 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71 Hp/l |
| Torque | 297 Nm @ 3200 rpm (219.06 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z32SE |
| Engine displacement | 3195 cm3 (194.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt, 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt, 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs) |
| 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 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 3.2 i V6 was the Z32SE engine, a 3.2-liter, 60-degree V6. This engine was part of Opel’s ECOTEC family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on refinement. It featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and utilized a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produced 227 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 297 Nm (219 lb-ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission was a conventional hydraulic unit, offering smooth shifts but lacking the efficiency of more modern transmissions. It was calibrated for comfort rather than outright performance, with gear ratios geared towards relaxed cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Antara 3.2 i V6 Automatic offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the V6 engine provided ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract slightly from the engine’s responsiveness. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 8.4 seconds, and the top speed was 203 km/h (126 mph). The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a suitable vehicle for year-round use. Compared to the 2.2-liter direct injection four-cylinder models, the V6 offered significantly more power and a smoother, quieter driving experience. However, it came at the cost of increased fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Antara 3.2 i V6 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as the premium trim level. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a more advanced audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes, front and side airbags, and electronic stability control. The interior design was functional and modern, with a focus on practicality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Antara’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The Antara’s weight of around 1865 kg (4112 lbs) meant that the braking system needed to work effectively to provide adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Antara 3.2 i V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable all-wheel-drive system. However, the V6 engine’s fuel consumption was a common criticism, especially compared to the more economical four-cylinder models. In terms of reliability, the Antara proved to be reasonably dependable, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission. Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Antara offered a more European driving experience and a more stylish design, but it lacked the same level of brand recognition and resale value.
Legacy
The Opel Antara 3.2 i V6, while not a massive sales success, remains a popular choice among used car buyers seeking a comfortable and capable SUV. The Z32SE V6 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for automatic transmission issues and the relatively high fuel consumption. Today, these Antaras represent an affordable entry point into V6-powered SUV ownership, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and all-weather capability.
