The Opel Antara (facelift, introduced in 2010) 2.2 CDTI AWD Ecotec Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of Opel’s compact SUV offering. Produced from 2010 through 2015, this variant occupied a significant position within the Antara range, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, all-weather capability, and relative fuel efficiency. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original Antara, which was based on the GM Theta platform, also underpinning vehicles like the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue. This particular 2.2 CDTI AWD model aimed to provide a comfortable and capable SUV experience, primarily targeted at the European market where diesel engines and all-wheel drive systems were highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Antara |
| Generation | Antara (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CDTI (163 Hp) AWD Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 225 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A22DM |
| Engine displacement | 2231 cm3 (136.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt, 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt, 7.92 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 402 l (14.2 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1391 l (49.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal, 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4596 mm (180.94 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1761 mm (69.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2707 mm (106.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.25 m (40.19 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Antara 2.2 CDTI is the A22DM engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A22DM utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing good responsiveness across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth shifting and comfortable cruising, although it isn’t known for particularly sporty performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while not the quickest shifting, provides smooth gear changes and makes the vehicle easy to drive in urban environments. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for all-weather use. Compared to the more powerful petrol variants, the 2.2 CDTI offers significantly better fuel economy. However, it lacks the outright performance of those models. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel efficiency, but gains in convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the Cosmo, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system. Optional extras included navigation, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. The interior design was functional and well-built, although it lacked the premium feel of some competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The Antara’s chassis features independent suspension at the front, typically utilizing MacPherson struts, and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at the front and, depending on the specific market and trim level, either disc or drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking control in emergency situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and all-weather capability. However, some critics noted that the engine was somewhat noisy and that the automatic transmission wasn’t particularly responsive. Fuel economy was considered good for a vehicle of its size and type. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Ford Kuga, the Antara offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value for money. The 2.2 CDTI variant was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance.
Legacy
The Opel Antara, and specifically the 2.2 CDTI Automatic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The A22DM engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance, including timely DPF regeneration, is crucial. The automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but it’s important to check for smooth shifting and any signs of wear. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic remains a practical and affordable option for buyers seeking a comfortable and capable SUV. Its blend of fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive, and reasonable running costs continues to make it a popular choice in the used car market today.
