By Otsile Kadiege

Back in the early 1990s, Opel and Vauxhall (sister company) revelaed the first-ever Frontera which was based on the rugged Isuzu MU. Decades later, the Frontera nameplate has made a come-back sporting the brand’s new design philosophy, a versatile interior with smart technologies as well as numerous convenience features. The Frontera will be available as an electric powered vehicle and customers will also have the option of hybridised internal combustion engines.

Bold and Pure

Opel’s new Bold and Pure design philosophy has been used on numerous cars like the Mokka, facelifted Corsa and Grandland. The new Frontera is the latest model from Opel’s stable to get the new design language, however, Opel switched it up a bit by adding rugged accentuations to the Frontera’s exterior. These include contrasting front and rear faux skid plates and contrasting wheel arches which are also pronounced.

More highlights include Opel’s new signature Vizor black panel with the brand’s new ‘Blitz’ logo on the centre. It’s flanked by Eco LED headlights with automatic high beam, a two-tone body paint, split LED taillights and “FRONTERA” lettering on the tailgate. Customers can opt for functional roof rails which can hold up to 200 kg.

Versatile cabin

Inside, the new Frontera boasts a typical modern and minimalist Opel design. Highlights include flat-top and bottom multifunctional steering wheel, two integrated 10-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, a cooled wireless charger, two USB ports up front and two more at the second row, smart storage spaces and fabric seats made with recycled materials.

The Frontera has a luggage capacity of 460 litres which can be expanded by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats to 1 600 litres.

EV and MHEV powertrains

As mentioned above, customers will be able to choose between a purely battery electric variant and internal combustion engines with 48-volt hybrid technology. Opel is yet to share official details of either powertrain.

Availability

The Frontera will replace the brand’s Crossland. Opel South Africa is yet to confirm local availability.