The Opel Antara (facelift, introduced in 2010) 2.2 CDTI AWD Ecotec Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of Opel’s compact SUV, positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai ix35 in the European market. Produced from 2010 through 2015, this variant offered a blend of practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and a diesel powertrain aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and towing capacity. The facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and refinements to the engine lineup, solidifying the Antara’s place as a family-oriented SUV. This specific 2.2 CDTI Automatic configuration occupied a mid-to-upper position within the Antara range, offering more performance and features than the base models but remaining below the more expensive, fully-equipped trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Antara |
| Generation | Antara (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CDTI (184 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 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A22DMH |
| 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 | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt, 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt, 6.6 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 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 A22DMH engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 184 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. This torque output is particularly beneficial for towing and provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. It features adaptive shift logic, adjusting gear changes based on driving style and road conditions. While not a sport-tuned transmission, it provides adequate performance for the Antara’s intended use.
Driving Characteristics
The Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The 184 hp engine, coupled with the automatic transmission, provides adequate power for most driving scenarios. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.5 seconds, which is competitive within its class. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a suitable vehicle for year-round use. The Antara’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. However, this does result in some body roll during cornering. Compared to the lower-powered 1.8-liter gasoline versions, the 2.2 CDTI offers significantly more torque and a more relaxed driving experience, especially when fully loaded or towing. It also provides better fuel economy than the gasoline engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rear-view camera, 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 a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and either disc or drum brakes on the rear wheels, depending on the trim level. The Antara’s braking performance is adequate for its weight class, providing sufficient stopping power in most situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll.
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 fuel-efficient diesel engine. However, some critics noted that the interior design was somewhat dated and that the handling was not as sharp as some competitors. Compared to other trims in the Antara lineup, the 2.2 CDTI Automatic offered a compelling combination of performance, fuel economy, and features. It was a popular choice for buyers who needed a versatile and practical SUV. Fuel economy averaged around 27.7 US mpg in combined driving, making it an economical option for long-distance travel. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter.
Legacy
The Opel Antara, and specifically the 2.2 CDTI Automatic variant, has established a reputation as a reliable and practical SUV in the used car market. The A22DMH engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. While not a particularly exciting vehicle to drive, it offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The availability of all-wheel drive makes it a good choice for buyers in regions with inclement weather. Today, well-maintained examples of the Antara 2.2 CDTI Automatic can be found at affordable prices, making it a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and economical SUV.
