That has been enough time for competitors to get a hold on the market, but on the brighter side it has also been long enough to wipe out memories of the Frontera, which was Vauxhall's last attempt at a small off-roader and not its finest hour.

Now it is back on the bandwagon with the Antara – and what a difference!

I rate it as one of the most attractive and well-built compact SUVs around at the moment and more than capable of holding its own in some extremely strong competition.

Admittedly it is more about fashion than floundering across muddy fields, but urban 4x4 fans will be smitten by its solid styling and the high driving position.

It helps that Vauxhall is on a roll at the moment and can do no wrong.

Every model is up there among the best sellers and the Antara won't take long to join them bearing in mind that it has the looks, a high level of equipment, plenty of space for family owners and, provided they are sensible and opt for the 2.0 litre diesel option, they can expect well over 30 miles to a gallon and a smaller carbon footprint than the alternative 2.4 litre petrol version.

The Antara is not cheap. The range starts at just under £20,000, but the model which I tested, the diesel automatic with S-level trim, costs £24,000 and is better value.

For buyers looking for the full works there is the lavishly equipped SE level, but that will cost them nearly £4,000 extra and is getting seriously expensive for a sports utility vehicle.

It handles well and the ride only gets harsh over roughest surfaces.

Noise is not an issue and it earns bonus points with allround
airbags, easy access, and a smart sporty dashboard. Top spec equipment includes cruise control, heated rear seats, drinks holders and, standard only in the SE, satellite navigation.

The Antara is strictly a fiveseater and has a decent boot with the back seats in use and a large, square, flat luggage area with them folded.

It is a fun car to drive and comfortable with it and, although there is not a huge amount of space for passengers, there are several models which offer a lot less and cost more.

Maybe I shouldn't tell you this, but if you want seven seats there is always Antara's close relative, the Chevrolet Captiva, which shares its chassis and engine and is cheaper... and which I am road testing in
the next few weeks.

On the other hand, if you want the quality finish, the refinement and the comfort and can afford to pay a bit more, then it has to be the Antara.

Your nearest Vauxhall dealer is Thurlow Nunn, which can be found on Campbells Meadow, Hardwick Road, King's Lynn or online at www.thurlownunn.co.uk