Meet Opel's Antara 4x4

Typical SUV high ground clearance, large wheels and robust protective elements all round are defining characteristics of the new Antara. It measures 4.57m in length, is 1.85m wide and stands 1.7m tall.

Initially, three transversally-mounted engines are available for the Antara, all of which have four valves per cylinder.

The top-of-the-line unit is closely related to the six-cylinder engines of the Vectra and Signum models. The Antara's V6 petrol engine has 3.2-liter displacement, output of 165 kW, and comes with an automatic transmission with ActiveSelect function.

Opel expects the 110 kW, 2.0-liter common-rail turbo-diesel to be the top seller. It is available with a five-speed manual gearbox, or with the same automatic transmission as the V6 engine.

The entry-level engine is a 2.4-liter, 104 kW, four-cylinder petrol unit with two overhead camshafts and one balance shaft.

The Antara?s intelligent active four-wheel drive system combines the benefits of front-wheel drive - such as tractional stability when accelerating and increased driving dynamics - with those of permanent four-wheel drive.

It features an electronically controlled electro-hydraulic differential which ensures optimal torque distribution between the front and rear axles in all situations. The drivetrain is fully integrated in the ABS and ESP systems, enhancing vehicle control and active safety.

Other standard functions include Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Active Rollover Protection (ARP), and (unusually for the Antara?s segment) Descent Control System (DCS).

DCS enables the Antara to be driven safely on steep slopes at a constant speed, which is pre-selected by the position of the gas pedal. Trailer Stabilization Assist (TSA) is available as an option.

The McPherson suspension in front and a four-link suspension in the rear provide a high-quality chassis concept similar to that in the Opel Vectra and Signum models. The braking system comprises large-sized ventilated disc brakes on all wheels.