This engine's high-tech features include variable camshaft phasing for both induction and exhaust sides, as well as a variable intake manifold.

The ultra-modern all-aluminum engine belongs to a V6 range that was developed in close co-operation between GM Powertrain engineers in North America and their European and Australian colleagues. In addition to the six-cylinder naturally-aspirated engines with displacements of 2.8 to 3.6 liters, this collaboration also produced a turbo variant, which is available in the Vectra and Signum.

Besides the Vectra, Signum and Antara, other GM cars that benefit from the dynamic driving performance and fuel efficiency of these engines include the Cadillac CTS, several U.S. Buicks, the Saab 9-3 Aero, and many Holden models. In each case, the units are carefully tuned to meet the needs of the specific brand.

Global co-operation in developing and producing these engines enables an up to 90 percent share of identical components. To allow these engines to be used globally, they were designed to meet many market demands around the world. For example, they feature valve timing to ensure optimal power delivery and emissions performance for the prevailing traffic and climate conditions. The intelligent base design of GM's new V6 model range is further proof of its versatility and global application possibilities. It allows engines to be mounted transversely or longitudinally, while accommodating variants with direct injection, manifold injection and turbo charging. In total, the ultra-modern six-cylinder engines cover a performance and torque range of 203 to 320 hp and 267 to
485 Nm.

Other similarities between the 24-valve engines include:

- classic cylinder angle of 60 degrees
- double overhead camshafts driven by dual chains
- four-bearing crankshaft made of micro-alloyed forged steel
- sintered connecting rods
- exhaust valves filled with sodium for better cooling
- rigid die-cast aluminum oil sump



Transmissions for shifting-comfort and high torque

The all-new five-speed manual transmission is available for the first time in the Antara. The compact three-shaft gearbox can deliver torque of up to 330 Nm, and gear changes are especially smooth and quiet thanks to the use of carbon fiber material in the synchromesh. The 2.4-liter entry-level gasoline variant is available only with this transmission.

The 2.0 CDTI with 150 hp can also be coupled with a new five-speed automatic gearbox, which is also designed to deliver torque of up to 330 Nm. Including automatic transmission fluid, the compact unit weighs just 91 kilograms. The 3.2-liter V6 features this transmission as standard.


Intelligent, active and lightweight four-wheel drive system

All Antaras feature the modern four-wheel drive system ITCC (Intelligent Torque Controlled Coupling). Key elements are one electromagnetic pilot coupling and one hydraulic wet multidisk clutch. ITCC is electronically controlled and variably distributes propulsion power between the front and rear axles. The advantages of this design compared to conventional ones are that it is maintenance-free, compact and light. The system reacts immediately and also prevents wind-up in the transmission, which can occur with a rigid axle connection. The low weight is also beneficial, as the essential components - Power Transfer Unit (PTU), drive shaft, rear axle shaft, Rear Drive Module (RDM) and couplings - weigh just 75 kilograms altogether.

previous page | go to page 15