Performance
The Antara is available with two engines: a sluggish 138bhp 2.4-litre petrol that you can only match with the lowest trim, and a 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel that will be by far the biggest seller. Although the diesel is fine once it gets into its stride, it's frustratingly weak at low revs and therefore surprisingly easy to stall around town.

Ride & handling
Decent body control means the Antara handles more sharply than some rivals and there's plenty of grip. It's a shame that the steering has such a detached feel, however. The ride is generally comfortable, although it can become unsettled over poor surfaces. A hill descent system comes as standard, while diesel models feature self-levelling rear suspension.

Refinement
Road and wind noise aren't a problem in the Antara, while the diesel engine is quiet enough around town. At higher speeds it makes a steady drone, though. The petrol engine needs working hard and makes a nasty racket - even around town. Whatever the speed, the manual gearshift is heavy and clumsy.

Quality & reliability
Metallic inserts and circular air vents give the Antara's cabin a refreshingly sporty look, while the soft-touch plastics and fine fit and finish create a classy impression. It's Vauxhall's first 4x4 for a long time, so there's no precedent for long-term reliability, but, as a brand, Vauxhall finished ninth out of 26 in our 2006 reliability survey, and 26th out of 33 in our latest JD Power customer satisfaction survey.

Safety & security
Every Antara comes with a stability control system as standard. Front, side and curtain airbags come as standard across the range. Deadlocks help to make life as difficult as possible for thieves, while a visible VIN and locking wheelnuts are deterrents.

Behind the wheel
The Antara's high-set driving position gives the king-of-the-road feel that many 4x4 fans love, although it's hard to judge where the steeply sloping bonnet ends. The dash layout is sensibly arranged, but the stereo controls are fiddly. There's a good range of adjustment for the seats and steering wheel, but the seats could do with extra thigh support.
Space & practicality
There's plenty of space for five in the Antara's cabin, with lots head- and legroom all-round. A reclining seat back and flat floor make life comfortable for those in the back, and access is easy. The Antara's boot is smaller than many rivals, and the high floor makes it comparatively shallow. It's easy to fold the rear seats flat for extra space, however.
Equipment
Even base-level E trim comes with six airbags, air-conditioning, powered windows and mirrors, front foglights, a CD player with MP3 capability and 17-inch alloy wheels. Move into S trim and you'll gain climate control, a chilled glove compartment, cruise control and 18-inch alloy wheels. SE gains a six-disc CD player, xenon headlights, leather upholstery and all-round parking sensors.