The Opel Frontera A 2.2i 4×4, produced between February 1995 and June 1998, represented a significant entry for Opel into the rapidly growing SUV market in Europe. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Frontera A lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between off-road capability, on-road comfort, and affordability. The Frontera A, built on a ladder-frame chassis, was Opel’s answer to competitors like the Nissan Terrano and Mitsubishi Pajero, offering a robust and practical vehicle for families and those with active lifestyles. This particular 2.2-liter variant was a popular choice, offering a step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-specification engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Frontera |
| Generation | Frontera A |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2i (136 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | February, 1995 |
| End of production | June, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 270 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 161 km/h (100.04 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 202 Nm @ 2600 rpm (148.99 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | X22XE |
| Engine displacement | 2198 cm3 (134.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1803 kg (3974.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 707 kg (1558.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1720 l (60.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4692 mm (184.72 in.) |
| Width | 1764 mm (69.45 in.) |
| Height | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 230 mm (9.06 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Frontera A 2.2i 4×4 is the X22XE engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of Opel’s ‘E’ family, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head with a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The X22XE utilized multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports for improved combustion efficiency. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 202 Nm (148.99 lb-ft) of torque at 2600 rpm. This power was delivered through a robust five-speed manual transmission to all four wheels via a selectable four-wheel drive system. The 4×4 system typically offered 2H (two-wheel drive), 4H (four-wheel drive high range), and 4L (four-wheel drive low range) settings, providing versatility for both on-road and off-road driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2i 4×4 Frontera A offered a competent, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 100 mph. The engine’s torque curve provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving and light off-road work, but it wasn’t as responsive as the higher-output 2.5-liter V6 versions. The manual transmission featured relatively long gearing, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Compared to the 2.0-liter base engine, the 2.2i offered a noticeable improvement in power and responsiveness. However, it lacked the refinement and performance of the V6 models. The Frontera’s ladder-frame chassis and solid rear axle contributed to a somewhat truck-like ride quality, especially when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Frontera A 2.2i 4×4 typically came equipped with features such as power steering, ABS brakes, and a basic audio system. Interior trim levels varied, but generally included cloth upholstery and a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a sunroof. Higher trim levels might have featured upgraded interior materials and additional convenience features. The Frontera A wasn’t known for luxury, but it offered a practical and durable interior designed to withstand the rigors of active use.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontera A utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for off-road driving. Front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear featured a rigid axle with leaf springs. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during hard braking. Ground clearance of 230mm (9.06 inches) allowed for reasonable off-road capability, and the 4×4 system provided excellent traction in challenging conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Frontera A 2.2i 4×4 was generally well-received as a capable and affordable SUV. Critics praised its off-road ability and practicality, but noted its somewhat basic interior and truck-like ride quality. Fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 20.6 US mpg. Compared to the 2.0-liter base model, the 2.2i offered a worthwhile performance upgrade. However, the V6 versions were favored by those seeking more power and refinement. The Frontera A competed directly with vehicles like the Nissan Terrano, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Suzuki Vitara, offering a competitive package in terms of price and capability.
Legacy
The Opel Frontera A, and specifically the 2.2i 4×4 variant, has developed a reputation for reliability and durability. The X22XE engine is known to be a robust and long-lasting unit, provided it is properly maintained. Today, the Frontera A is a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a classic SUV with off-road capability. Parts availability is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair. While not a collector’s item, well-maintained examples of the Frontera A 2.2i 4×4 continue to command reasonable prices in the used car market, appealing to those seeking a practical and affordable SUV with a touch of retro charm.
