New Antara Enters UK SUV Market At Under £20k
LUTON, UNITED KINGDOM – February 9, 2011: With a refreshed exterior design, new engines, revised chassis settings and an upgraded interior, the Vauxhall Antara combines off-road flair with practicality for the 2011 model year.
The all-new engine line-up comprising two diesel units (both meeting Euro 5 emissions standards) guarantees improved driving performance with significantly reduced consumption and emissions. Both the six-speed transmissions available – an auto and manual – are also newly developed for the Antara.
The 2.2 CDTI diesel engine comes in two output levels. The 163PS entry level unit develops maximum torque of 350 Nm at 2000rpm and is available with front or all-wheel drive and manual or automatic transmission. With fuel consumption of 44.8mpg, CO2 emissions of 167g/km combined with a 9.9-second 0-60mph time and top speed of 117mph, the powertrain offers an excellent blend of performance and efficiency.
The 184PS top-of-the-line diesel, producing maximum torque of 400Nm at just 2000rpm, comes standard with all-wheel drive and is available with both transmissions. Performance is enhanced further, with a 0-60mph time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 124mph, yet economy is still impressive, with a combined 42.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 175 g/km.
Intelligent all-wheel drive system with variable power
distribution
The Antara’s electronically controlled all-wheel
drive system combines the advantages of front-wheel drive – such as
low fuel consumption - with the traction benefits of an all-wheel drive
system.
While the engine normally powers the front wheels, prevailing driving conditions are continuously monitored by the control electronics. If poor traction causes front-axle slippage, the system seamlessly redistributes power. Depending on the driving situation and outside conditions, the power distribution range spans from 100 percent front-wheel drive to 50 percent on both front and rear axles, and all variations in between.
New chassis set up
To match its lively engines, the updated
Antara now features a newly-tuned chassis that combines driving involvement
and agility with a comfortable, supple ride. The speed-sensitive power
steering has also been enhanced to offer more accuracy and feel.
Refinements to the chassis and active safety include improvements to the ABS system and the standard fitting of Hill Start Assist (HSA) which prevents roll-back when driving away on gradients. Depending on model variant and equipment, distinctive 17-, 18- or 19- inch alloy wheels complement the new Antara’s bold looks.
Refreshed design with clear brand identity
The new
Antara’s exterior sports an updated front grille with chrome bezel,
with the Griffin logo positioned on the chrome cross-bar. Re-designed fog
lights, rear lights with new graphics and a distinctive protection panel at
the front and rear of the car complete the exterior changes.
The refreshed interior offers new, upscale trim and upholstery, instruments with new graphics, a re-designed centre console with extra storage solutions, along with an elegant leather trim option called Light Titanium. Improved safety and comfort features include: an electric parking brake; a gear display for manual operation in the automatic variants;deactivation of front and side airbags on the front passenger side to enable mounting of a child safety seat; seat-belt pre-tensioners and belt force limiters for front passengers.
Compelling alternative in European mid-size SUV segment
With
its attractive looks, state-of-the-art powertrain line-up, active chassis
tuning and upscale interior, the Vauxhall Antara is a strong contender in
its segment. The new crossover also offers excellent value for money: the
163PS Exclusiv with front-wheel drive is just £19,995 OTR.
The SUV and crossover segment will play a more important role in Vauxhall’s product portfolio, strengthening the company’s position in the European automotive market. The next step will be an all-new compact SUV planned for 2013. Vauxhall anticipates Antara sales of 15,000 units during 2011, rising to 20,000 thereafter. Around 80 per cent of these sales will be spread across key markets in the UK, Germany, Italy and Russia. The 163PS diesel variant is expected to be the biggest seller, accounting for around 75 per cent of sales.
Engines & Transmissions
New 2.2 CDTi diesel
The updated engine line-up for the refreshed Vauxhall Antara combines strong performance with low fuel consumption and emissions. Both powertrain variants of the Antara meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Two newly-developed six-speed transmissions – one manual and one automatic – further improve the Antara’s efficiency.
2.2 CDTI diesel engine: one of the most efficient in its
class
The 2.2 CDTi engine is available with a choice of power
outputs: a 163PS version, which can be combined with front or all-wheel
drive as well as with manual or automatic transmission, and a 184PS unit,
also available with both transmission types, as well as standard all-wheel
drive.
With maximum torque of 350Nm from 2000rpm and combined fuel consumption/emissions of 44.8mpg/167g CO2, the 163PS unit is an attractive entry-level engine for the Antara range. Zero to 60mph acceleration of 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 117mph ensure that drivers aren’t short-changed on the performance front, either.
The 184PS top-of-the-line diesel combined with all-wheel drive produces maximum torque of 400Nm at just 2000rpm. In this form, the Antara achieves a 0-60mph time of 9.6 seconds and top speed of 124mph, combined with fuel consumption of 42.8mpg and emissions of 175g/km.
This new diesel unit is among the most efficient engines in its capacity
class. Its high specific power output, low emissions and reduced NVH are
achieved by use of:
Optional manual or automatic transmission
Two new six-speed
transmission systems, one manually-operated and one automatic, combine
efficiency with ease of operation. High-tech details like
precision-designed "Monoblock" gear wheels and upgraded bearing elements in
the manual gearbox ensure fluent gear changes and minimise friction and
vibration.
A widely-spaced final drive ratio allows excellent response in first gear combined with a relaxed cruising gait in top gear. In addition, drivers have two programs available at the push of a button, depending on whether they want to "cruise" or drive more enthusiastically. The transmission also includes an automatic stage-by-stage braking system, which prevents unwanted up-shifts while the vehicle is coasting downhill.
Optional front-wheel or all-wheel drive
Depending on their
needs, Antara buyers can specify their Antara with either front- or
variable all-wheel drive. The latter combines the advantages of front-wheel
drive – such as low fuel consumption – with additional power,
grip and safety.
The all-wheel drive Antara uses a system called ITCC (Intelligent Torque Controlled Coupling) which uses an electromagnetic pilot coupling and hydraulic multi-plate wet clutch housed in a single rear axle module unit. This combination ensures an ultra-quick response to changing road conditions, while also making the unit compact, lightweight and maintenance-free.
Working together, the ITCC and electronic stability control (ESC) continually compare wheel-speed, steering angles and accelerator position, and if traction is poor across the front axle, the system reacts within 0.1 seconds to seamlessly re-distribute power as required. Depending on driving conditions, the torque distribution range spans from 100 per cent front-wheel drive to 50 per cent across each axle, and all variations in between.
Chassis & Dynamics
Enhanced agility and more ride
comfort
A wide range of modifications and fine-tuning has improved every element of the new Antara’s dynamics, compared with the outgoing car.
Changes to the front axle include revised McPherson strut settings with increased spring rates, as well as a new upper strut mount, which is softer in the horizontal and vertical plane, but stiffer diagonally. Allied to a modified shock absorber layout and reinforced anti-roll bar with enlarged bearings and softer guide sleeves, the Antara has a higher roll resistance, more direct steering feel and improved ride comfort.
The multi-link rear suspension, with three transverse and one trailing link per side, has also been re-designed and fine-tuned. The trailing arms are now hydraulically damped for better structural isolation. Revised strut mounts and coil springs with increased rates also minimise the impact of road shocks. In combination with a reinforced anti-roll bar, a wide track (1,562mm front, 1,572mm rear) and a wheelbase which is long for this class of vehicle (2,707mm), these measures guarantee improved road contact, increased stability and better balanced ride comfort.
The new Antara’s speed-related rack and pinion power steering system features a modified steering gear link and a reinforced intermediate shaft with a ball guide. As a result, the system has increased rigidity, better feedback to the driver and minimal effort during manoeuvering.
Large, ventilated disc brakes front and rear are allied to a four-channel ABS system and brake assist function to ensure confidence-inspiring deceleration at all times and in all road conditions.
A wide range of leading-edge assist systems further enhance active
safety. They include:
And the Antara has a lot more to offer in terms of utility. All-wheel drive variants can tow loads of up to 2,000 kilograms (front-wheel drive: 1,500kgs) and the trailer stability program (TSP) also ensures any swaying tendencies of the car-trailer combination are recognised by a yaw sensor and effectively prevented by a reduction of engine power and controlled braking.
In addition to enhanced handling characteristics on the road, all-wheel drive Antaras also offer impressive off-road capability, aided by: electronically controlled variable front/rear power distribution, a 176 mm ground clearance, a 450 mm wading depth, an overhang angle of 20 and 24 degrees front and rear, as well as a ramp angle of 18 degrees.
Depending on specification, the Antara is fitted as standard with 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels (tyre size: 235/65 R 17 and 235/55 R 18). A new, eye-catching 8 x 19-inch wheel is available as an option with 235/50 R 19 tyres.
Body, Packaging & Passive Safety
Excellent comfort and
exceptional functionality
Taking up no more space than a normal mid-size car, the new Antara measures just 4,596mm x 1,850mm, making it an ideal vehicle for either urban or off-road driving. The elevated seating position (vehicle height: 1,717 mm) offer an unrestricted all-round view of the road, while the excellent powertrain characteristics and precise handling ensure agility, lively performance and trouble-free manoeuvering.
The interior features ample room for occupants front and rear, while the rear passenger compartment features tiltable backrests and legroom of 946mm, which is among the most generous in the segment.
The Antara’s luggage compartment holds up to 402 litres of cargo with its rear seats up; this grows to 795 litres when the back seat is folded down and up to 1,391 litres when loaded to the roof. The rear backrest (split 60:40) and the front passenger backrest can be folded down to accommodate objects up to 2.63 metres in length.
Redesigned interior with high-quality ambience
The upgraded
Antara’s interior features a standard electric parking brake operated
by the push of a button. As well as making the car easier to use,
especially during town driving, it also liberates more space, which has
allowed designers to integrate a larger stowage area for everyday items.
The well thought-out storage system is rounded off by a pull-out
compartment under the front passenger seat, a holder for sunglasses in the
roof lining, nets on the front seat backs and a parking ticket holder in
the dashboard. The rear passenger cabin also offers practical storage
spaces which can be expanded with a multifunctional centre armrest
(optional).
An under-floor compartment beneath the cargo area helps keep things tidy, while the optional FlexOrganiser system includes two standard rails on both of the rear side walls into which various (optional) elements such as nets, partitions, rods or hooks can be clipped. This means that the luggage compartment can be divided into sections that secure the load and keep it from shifting.
Acoustic comfort improved
Vauxhall’s engineers have paid
special attention to the new Antara’s NVH (Noise, Vibration,
Harshness) qualities, and have devised a raft of measures to improve cabin
refinement, such as:
Other areas benefiting from NVH improvements are on the front console, the C and D pillars, the wheelarch liners, steering column, gearshift and door trim. The efforts made by the acoustic specialists lead to a convincing result: the perceptible noise level in the Antara’s cabin was reduced by over 3dB (A) and thus more than halved.
The performance features of the on-board electronics were also enhanced. They now include systems for efficient control of the electrical on-board system and battery charge status (“RVC”, Regulated Voltage Control) as well as for optimisation of noise insulation and energy efficiency of the engine fan in the diesel versions.
High levels of passive safety
Complementing the chassis and
assist systems’ active safety gains, the Antara also offers extensive
passive safety features. They are based on a rigid bodyshell structure made
up of 37 percent high-strength steel.
The side beam, cross bar and front axle distribute energy from a frontal collision along optimised load paths, thus helping to prevent deformation of the passenger compartment. B-pillars constructed of tailored blank metal sheets with varying thickness ensure safety in the event of a side-impact collision. A reinforced rear structure with large longitudinal beams and a fuel tank positioned in front of the rear axle round off the body safety measures.
In the event of minor accidents at low speed, special crash boxes at the front and rear absorb the collision energy and thus limit potential repair costs. Vauxhall has also taken precautions in terms of long-term quality: all of the corrosion-prone areas of the body are galvanized on both sides.
The Vauxhall Antara’s passive safety is further enhanced by
extensive restraint and add-on systems including:
Design
Elegant crossover with clear brand
connection
More than ever before, the new Vauxhall Ampera combines the rugged looks of an off-roader with a hint of urban chic.
Exterior changes to the 2011 model include a newly designed front grille whose dynamic V form continues in the crease on the hood up to the A-pillars. The front grille’s chrome bezel with its trademark chrome bar, carry the bold Griffin logo and new fog lamps, accentuating Vauxhall’s sculptural design language and the crossover’s upscale look.
Dark toned cladding around the doorsill and floor areas as well as distinctive underside protection are a clear sign of the Vauxhall Antara’s offroad intent. The rear features balanced proportions and a symmetry that sets it apart from the competition.
Clear contours reflect robustness and quality, while curves in the right places of the underbody, waistline and the roof form a harmonious unit. The Antara’s eye-catching looks are rounded off by large rear wrap-around lights with newly designed surface graphics and elegant alloy wheels in a choice of 17-, 18- or 19-inch diameter sizes.
Interior with new instruments, new materials and additional storage
space
The Antara’s updated interior offers improved comfort
and quality. New levels of standard equipment include an electric parking
brake and seats offering either manual six-stage or optional power
eight-stage adjustment.
The refreshed interior also includes instruments with new bezels and distinctive, easy-to-read cluster graphics. New panelling and upholstery materials, the new (optional) leather trim and elegant interior lighting create a high-quality look and feel.
Technology & Equipment
Comfort, functionality and
individuality
The 2011 Antara model comes as standard with an electric parking brake that ensures easy drive away on gradients, particularly in combination with Hill Start Assist (HSA) which is also standard. New safety features include deactivation of front and side airbags on the front passenger side when a child safety seat is mounted, optimised seat-belt pretensioners on the front seats and a tyre repair kit.
Customers have a choice of three equipment versions: Antara Exclusiv FWD, Exclusiv AWD or SE AWD. Standard features include:
Antara Exclusiv FWD
Exclusiv AWD
In addition to the standard equipment in the
Exclusiv FWD, the Exclusiv AWD variant offers:
SE
Beyond the equipment in the Exclusiv AWD, the SE
offers:
SE Nav
Numerous choices for individualisation
The possibilities for
personalising the new Antara begin with a choice of six exterior colours:
Olympic White, Sovereign Silver, Placid Grey, Thunder Grey, Carbon Black
and Cream White. Depending on equipment variant, the interior
trimsavailable are: Jet Black cloth/Morrocana with Exclusiv models, or
Saddle Brown for the top-of-the-line SE variant.
High quality accessories
The Vauxhall Antara can be equipped
with an extensive range of accessories, ranging from roof boxes, roof-rack
systems and a trailer hitch to exclusive alloy wheels, child seats and
trays and floor mats for the cargo area. Bluetooth-compatible audio systems
with steering wheel controls and a USB interface in the front console to
connect external media players and Apple iPhones are also available.