Elegant, dynamic crossover will be launched in Europe by the end of 2006

• Powerful diesel and petrol variants; top-of-the-line 3.2 V6
• Intelligent four-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic differential

Following the enthusiastic reaction to the Antara GTC crossover concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) 2005, Opel and Vauxhall launches, this year, in Europe, the five-door production version of the new Antara. “With the new Antara, we are entering one of the fastest-growing segments in Europe. It is a technically sophisticated vehicle with a unibody construction which combines dynamic design with intelligent four-wheel drive, high levels of functionality and a higher seat position – tailor-made for a growing customer base,” says Opel Managing Director, Hans Demant. The total share of the combined SUV and crossover market in Europe has doubled since 1998, from three to six percent, with continued growth expected.

“When we presented the Antara GTC concept car last September at the IAA in Frankfurt, it immediately became the star of the show,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Marketing, Adam Opel GmbH. “Now the production version is ready. It realises our high ambitions in the growing crossover market, as it takes the coupé-like sporty character of the three-door Antara GTC concept, and transforms it into a dynamic, elegantly designed five-door series-production model, with five seats and remarkable interior versatility.” Prices for the new Antara - with 2.4-litre petrol engine - will start at 26,850 euro in Germany. “That is a very modest price for such a high-value crossover,” adds Visser. While the opening of the GM Europe Design Centre in Rüsselsheim today (Wednesday 10th May, 2006) provides the first opportunity to see the new model, the Antara will make its public world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (Mondial de l´ Automobile) in Paris in October, 2006.

The special character of the Antara design is spotlighted by bold contrasts. The lower section looks very robust, and the body features bold lines and taut surfaces that combine to give a sporty muscular appearance with stylish elegance. The designers visualised a versatile car, that is both dynamic and comfortable for long journeys. Carefully crafted details such as the crease on the bonnet and the grille accented by the wide chrome bar with large Opel logo confidently emphasise the car’s high quality and brand identity.

High ground clearance, large wheels and robust protective elements all round are defining characteristics of the new Antara, as are its compact dimensions (length x width x height: 4.57 x 1.85 x 1.70 metres). It takes up no more space than a mid-size passenger car, while at the same time offering ample interior room. The interior echoes the style and elegance of a top-of-the-line sedan, with sporty contoured seats that highlight its dynamic SUV character. In characteristic Opel style, all instruments and operating controls are ergonomically placed and arranged. The large, well-designed instruments and centre console with central info display give the cockpit a driver-oriented layout. On board are innovative 'infotainment' systems familiar from other Opel models, including DVD navigation and Bluetooth functionality.

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-litre displacement, output of 165 kW, and comes with an automatic transmission with ActiveSelect function. Opel expects the 110 kW, 2.0-litre 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-litre, 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 accelerator pedal. Trailer Stabilisation 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.

Opel is now staking a claim as leader among volume manufacturer in the midsize crossover market, which has been mostly dominated by non-European brands until now. Thanks to the synergy-effects of GM’s worldwide development capacity, a vehicle has been developed with an unmistakably unique brand character, distinguished by its sporty design, high-quality interior and dynamic chassis settings.