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Opel Antara: compact SUV, engines and trims
Opel Antara — a compact SUV, produced in South Korea from 2006 to 2015 and sold in Europe under the Opel badge. In this article, we review the facelift, engines, trims, and what to check when buying a used Antara.
Antara in brief
The Antara is a five-door compact SUV with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It shares a platform with the Chevrolet Captiva, so the technology and parts often overlap with that model.
On the used market, the Antara is valued for its spacious interior, high seating position, and all-wheel drive at an acceptable price. It's often chosen as a more economical alternative to better-known SUVs.
Which version to choose
Around 2010, the Antara received a facelift: the front and rear were redesigned, the interior was improved, and newer engines were introduced. Facelifted versions usually come with better equipment and more modern technology.
Earlier versions (2006–2010) are cheaper, but they require more attention to maintenance. If you're looking for a diesel, it's crucial to choose a variant with a clear service history.
Engines and transmissions
The most common are diesel CDTI (2.0 l, later 2.2 l, around 130–185 hp) and petrol 2.4 l (around 140–167 hp) and 3.2 l V6 (around 230 hp). The facelifted version predominantly featured the 2.2 CDTI with varying power outputs.
Transmissions come as manual (5 or 6-speed) or automatic (5 or 6-speed). All-wheel drive and front-wheel drive versions were offered in various engine combinations.
What to check when buying a used Antara
Diesel engines (especially the 2.2 CDTI) need to be well-maintained: check the timing chain tension, turbo, EGR, and diesel particulate filter. Listen to the cold engine and ask for the oil change history.
Test the automatic transmission and all-wheel drive operation (drive smoothly without jerking). Inspect the sills and wheel arches for rust, check the suspension components, brakes, and electronics — windows, air conditioning, sensors, and dashboard indicators.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Essentia
All periodsBase trim.
- Often — air conditioning and electric windows
- Often — steel or standard alloy wheels
- Standard audio system
Enjoy
All periodsMore comfortable version.
- Often — climate control
- Often — alloy wheels
- Often — parking sensors
Cosmo
All periodsTop-of-the-range trim.
- Often — single-seater interior
- Often — navigation, xenon headlights
- Often — larger alloy wheels
Comparing trims
| Essentia | Enjoy | Cosmo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For everyday use | For families and comfort | For comfort and gadget lovers |
| Wheels (most common) | 16–17 inch | 17 inch | 18 inch |
| Interior | Standard | More spacious | More equipment |
| Engine | 2.0–2.2 CDTI, 2.4 | 2.0–2.2 CDTI, 2.4 | 2.2 CDTI, 3.2 V6 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ |
Most buyers will be happy with the Enjoy diesel and four-wheel drive. The Cosmo is worth it for the equipment, but the 3.2 V6 is only if fuel economy isn't a concern.
Pros
- Spacious interior and high seating position
- Four-wheel drive option
- Acceptable price for the class
- Wide range of engine choices
Cons
- Diesel engines require careful maintenance
- Fewer parts available than for more popular models
- Interior and ride can sometimes lag behind competitors
Frequently asked questions
Is the Antara reliable?
It depends on the specific car. The most important thing is to thoroughly check the engine, especially the diesel, and choose examples with a full service history.
What is the Antara's connection to the Chevrolet Captiva?
Both models are based on the same GM platform, so the technology and parts often match. The Antara was produced with the Opel badge for the European market.
Is it worth choosing all-wheel drive?
Yes, if you often drive in winter or on poor roads. Before buying, check its operation and service history, as it can be expensive to maintain.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
