Opel is re-launching the Frontera name with a brand new model, a false twin to the Citroën C3 Aircross. But between its divisive lines, a size that doesn’t match its 7-seater version and an official speech advocating dubious dynamics, this curious Frontera left us confused.
Long gone are the days of the 1990s Frontera, an Isuzu-gutted 4×4 that offered a proper big-block oil-burning 2.8, barely 113bhp, among its engines. A final value that can still be read in the data sheet after 33 years, because it is also the performance of the 100% electric unit that powers this new type of Frontera. A simple coincidence, because apart from the Frontera logo on the sales brochures, which subtly corresponds to the logo affixed to the Sport model of the last century, the Frontera, which today embodies the urban compact SUV, has nothing in common with its ancestor, such as Ford and its Puma or, more recently, the Capri.
Original optional package
The Frontera’s proportions at first glance share common DNA with its false twin, the Citroën ë-C3 Aircross. But as usual with Opel, its design is more consensual than the French creations. The Germans still found a very inspiring idea through the White Style package (500 euros) which, in addition to adding a roof in this color, coordinates it with 16-inch steel rims with small black covers, truly original. It even makes you wonder why no one else thought of it, specifically Dacia. Please note that this option is only offered in the First Edition finish (not available for testing in the Electric version) and is only compatible with Kanyon Orange (free market color), Karbon Black (€500) and Khaki Green (€550). It’s a shame for Blue Effekt (550 euros), it’s logical for Gray Kristall (550 euros) and White Arktis (300 euros).
Two-tone paint is standard for the high-end GS, the SUV is fitted with more conventional 17-inch alloy wheels, and the taillights switch to LED, noting that the front ones are LED from the base level, unlike the ë-C3.
Very differentiated interior
On board, Opel really tried to apply its own atmosphere. In addition to the clearly more driver-oriented instrument orientation, the Frontera dashboard also gets a 10-inch digital instrument panel, where Citroën prefers minimalism with a small strip of display wrongly considered “head up” just by its position (nothing is projected onto the windshield). Their center consoles have remained very similar, although Opel offers an elastic system surrounding the cup holders to hold a tablet, for example. Weird example, why place it so low that it looks at something?
