The first Fronteras were not real Opels, since these 4x4s were derived from an Isuzu model. The last one is no more, being a simple city SUV available only in traction. This time, it is on the basis of the new Citroën C3 Aircross that Opel signs its copy. If its positioning has nothing to do with the late 4×4, it also stands out from the rest of the Opel range with less expensive prices, closer to those charged by Dacia.
After having dedicated a complete test to its electric version, we are interested here in the most powerful thermal model, the 136 hp version of a three-cylinder turbo block with 48 V hybridization also offered in a 100 hp version. Furthermore, our test model this time is in Edition finish, the entry level of the Frontera.
The Frontera range starts at €24,500 in the 100 hp Hybrid version and goes up to €26,000 in the 136 hp version. For comparison, a Dacia Jogger Hybrid 140 starts at €25,200 and a Duster equipped with the same engine starts at €26,600.
Precisely, the positioning of the Frontera is halfway between its two rivals at Dacia. It sports an SUV style, like the Duster, but offers an optional third row of seats, like the Jogger. Unfortunately, our test model was without it, because this €700 option is reserved for the high GS finish.
Compared to the GS model that we tested in the electric version, the Edition finish sacrifices some equipment. As standard, the Frontera, for example, skips the central screen, replaced by a smartphone holder with a dedicated app. A good idea that we already find at Dacia, but which can be surprising at such a price. Not everyone necessarily wants to have to connect their smartphone to listen to the radio, for example, and even less so after spending €26,000.
The interior of the Frontera Edition without the options of our test model.
© Opel
It is possible to benefit from the services of the central screen, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, integrated navigation or even the reversing camera, as part of the Techno pack at €1,200. The latter equips our test model, as do the Intelli-Seat seats at €1000 and the White Style Pack at €500 (white rims and roof).
Under the hood of the thermal versions, we find the well-known 1.2 PureTech, here in its version with timing chain and 48 V hybridization. It is associated with the e-DCS6 automatic gearbox with three clutches produced by Punch Powertrain. The whole thing, which we already encountered on board other models of the group, turns out to be quite efficient with a 0 to 100 km/h which takes only 8.3 s. However, we regret the jolts which affect the smoothness of use, particularly between the electric and thermal driving phases. As a reminder, despite its voltage of 48 V, this hybridization allows you to drive on electricity for short periods.
Consumption is announced at 5.2 l/100 km in the WLTP combined cycle. This is slightly more than the full-hybrid (HEV) version of the Dacia Jogger (4.7 l/100 km) and Duster (5.0 l/100 km), but it remains a good score. In real conditions, you will obviously have to plan a little more, but an average consumption of around 6 l/100 km seems tenable.
For the rest, the Frontera Hybrid 136 hp Edition retains the good habitability and the fairly generous trunk volume (460 l) which we liked during our test of the electric version, but also a quality of finish (even a little more) disappointing and quite poor road handling.
