The Opel Frontera, reintroduced in 2024, represents a revival of a nameplate popular in the late 20th century. This latest iteration is a compact SUV positioned as an affordable and practical family vehicle, primarily aimed at the European market. Production commenced in March 2025, and the 1.2 Turbo (110 hp) Hybrid eDCT variant serves as a key entry point into the Frontera lineup, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. It’s built on the Stellantis CMP platform, shared with other Peugeot and Citroën models. This version is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a modern, well-equipped SUV with a focus on lower running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Frontera |
| Generation | Frontera (2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 Turbo (110 Hp) Hybrid eDCT |
| Start of production | March, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at High speed (WLTP) | 4.6-4.7 l/100 km (51.1 – 50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Very high speed (WLTP) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 119-120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power | 21 Hp @ 4265 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 110 Hp |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HN09 |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1269 kg (2797.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 561 kg (1236.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 44 l (11.62 US gal | 9.68 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 65 kg (143.3 lbs.) |
| Length | 4385 mm (172.64 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1849 mm (72.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, MHEV |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission eDCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 98H; 215/60 R17 96H |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Frontera 1.2 Turbo Hybrid utilizes the HN09 engine, a three-cylinder, 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine is part of Stellantis’s PureTech family and features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger and intercooler enhance power output and efficiency. The engine produces 100 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The ‘Hybrid’ designation refers to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This system incorporates a small electric motor integrated into the transmission, providing a power boost during acceleration and enabling start-stop functionality for improved fuel economy. The eDCT (efficient Dual-Clutch Transmission) is a six-speed automatic gearbox designed for smooth and quick gear changes. This transmission contributes to the overall efficiency and responsiveness of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 hp output, combined with the eDCT transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.5 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the powertrain delivers sufficient power for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The eDCT transmission offers smooth shifts, and the mild hybrid system provides a noticeable boost during initial acceleration. Compared to higher-output Frontera variants (which are not currently available), this version prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine may feel slightly strained when climbing steep hills or carrying a full load. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to lower fuel consumption but may offer less traction in adverse weather conditions compared to all-wheel-drive options (if offered in the future).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Frontera trim with the 1.2 Turbo Hybrid eDCT typically includes standard features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Interior upholstery is generally cloth, and the dashboard features a functional, modern design. Optional extras may include alloy wheels, a larger touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels, if available, would add features like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and more advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontera utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam, which is a cost-effective and space-saving solution. The braking system features disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering light and precise control. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Frontera 1.2 Turbo Hybrid eDCT is positioned as a value-oriented SUV in a competitive segment. Critics have generally praised its fuel efficiency and practicality, but some have noted its modest performance. Compared to other similarly priced SUVs, the Frontera offers a good balance of features and running costs. The mild hybrid system provides a noticeable improvement in fuel economy compared to non-hybrid gasoline engines. Reliability data is still emerging, as the model is relatively new, but the Stellantis PureTech engine has a mixed reputation, with some reports of timing chain issues in earlier iterations.
Legacy
As a newly reintroduced model, the long-term reliability of the 2024 Opel Frontera remains to be seen. However, the use of proven Stellantis components suggests a reasonable level of durability. The 1.2 Turbo Hybrid powertrain is expected to be relatively fuel-efficient and maintainable. In the used car market, this variant is likely to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable and practical family SUV with low running costs. Its success will depend on its ability to deliver on its promise of value and reliability over the long term.
