About the Vauxhall Antara
Produced from 2007 to 2015, the Vauxhall Antara was the brand's entry into the growing SUV market, sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Captiva. Available exclusively as a five-seater, it offered buyers a choice of front-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations, with both diesel and petrol engines. The most common engines were the 2.2-litre CDTi diesel variants producing either 161bhp or 181bhp, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The Antara received a facelift in 2011 which brought updated styling, improved interior materials and enhanced equipment levels across the range. Standard features on most models included air conditioning, cruise control and electric windows, whilst higher-spec SE and Diamond trims added leather upholstery, heated seats and touchscreen navigation. Boot space was generous at 370 litres with seats up, expanding to 1,420 litres with rear seats folded.
What Affects the Price of a Used Vauxhall Antara
Age is the primary factor influencing Antara values, with pre-facelift models (2007-2011) typically commanding £4,000 to £8,000, whilst later examples (2012-2015) range from £9,000 to £22,000. Mileage significantly impacts pricing, with sub-50,000-mile examples fetching premium prices, whilst vehicles exceeding 100,000 miles see notable depreciation.
Diesel models, particularly the 2.2 CDTi, are more sought-after than petrol variants due to better fuel economy and stronger torque delivery, typically commanding £500-£1,000 more. Four-wheel-drive versions hold their value better than front-wheel-drive models, especially in rural areas. Trim level also matters, with SE and Diamond specifications worth approximately £1,500-£2,500 more than base Exclusiv models thanks to enhanced equipment levels.
Service history is crucial, as the Antara requires regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs. Full dealer or specialist service records can add 10-15% to value. Condition of the interior, particularly leather seats which can wear on higher-mileage examples, affects desirability. Vehicles with factory-fitted extras such as panoramic sunroofs, reversing cameras or upgraded audio systems command higher prices in the used market.
Tips for Buying a Used Vauxhall Antara
Always verify the service history, ensuring cambelt changes have been completed at the recommended 75,000-mile or six-year intervals on diesel models—replacement costs £600-£800 if overdue. Check for oil leaks around the engine and gearbox, a known issue on higher-mileage examples. Test the four-wheel-drive system thoroughly if fitted, engaging it on various surfaces to ensure proper operation.
Inspect the interior carefully for wear, particularly the driver's seat bolster and steering wheel, which indicate how hard the vehicle has been used. Check all electrical systems including air conditioning, electric windows and the infotainment system, as faults can be expensive to rectify. Listen for any unusual noises from the suspension, especially on models with over 70,000 miles, as worn bushes and dampers are common.
Review the vehicle's MOT history online to identify recurring issues or advisory notices that might indicate neglect. Budget for potential dpf (diesel particulate filter) issues on diesel models used primarily for short journeys—cleaning costs £150-£200, replacement £800-£1,200. Consider paying for an independent mechanical inspection, particularly on vehicles without comprehensive service records, as this can reveal hidden problems before purchase.