Opel is reviving the Frontera name with an electric SUV. For just over 30,000 euros, you can buy a spacious family car with a range of 300 kilometers. We’re conducting the first test kilometers in Spain.
Size and versions
At 4.38 meters long and with a wheelbase of 2.73 meters, the Frontera is a big boy; it even comes close to the Volvo EX40. It’s not surprising, as a seven-seater will be coming later. The SUV comes in two flavors: an Edition and a GS. The Edition rolls on 16-inch steel wheels and has standard EcoLED headlights. For an additional 399 euros, you can have the roof and wheels painted white. If you opt for the GS, you get 17-inch alloy wheels, a black roof, LED taillights, and tinted glass from the B-pillar.
Interior and space
As soon as you step into the Frontera, you immediately notice how much space you get for your money. The entry is comfortable at hip level and you quickly find a comfortable seating position. The GS version spoils you with comfortable Intelli seats that provide extra support for your back, plus an adjustable center armrest. There are plenty of handy storage compartments.
The rear seat is downright spacious. Even if you are 1.90 meters tall, you can sit comfortably ‘behind yourself’. The almost flat floor also makes it pleasant for the middle passenger. Thanks to a luggage compartment that can be expanded from 460 to 1600 liters, the Frontera scores top marks in its class. A handy detail: when folding down the rear seat, the headrests can simply remain in place.
Powertrain and performance
The Opel Frontera Electric is available in Standard and Long-Range Versions, but only the standard version is currently available. It has a 44kWh battery and a 113 hp electric motor on the front wheels. Fast charging is possible with a maximum of 100 kW, which allows you to go from 10 to 80 percent in 26 minutes. According to the WLTP method, the promised range is 305 kilometers.
The engine proved surprisingly powerful in the Spanish mountains. It can sprint from 0 to 100 in 12.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 140 km/h, easily keeping up with traffic. The real test will follow in the Netherlands, especially regarding energy consumption in winter.
Technical drawbacks
However, there are also a few caveats. For example, there is no heat pump and you cannot preheat the battery. EV route planning is also unfortunately not an option. The LFP battery is only cooled with air, which may mean that you do not achieve that 100kW charging speed in the winter. There is also a chance that the battery will deteriorate more quickly in the long term.
Driving behavior
On the road, the Frontera feels nicely German. It drives nicely straight and is a pleasant travel companion, especially on the motorway. The sound insulation is excellent and the chassis offers a nice balance. In the city, the damping could be a bit softer, but it never really becomes annoying.
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