The Opel Frontera B 2.2 DTI 4×4, produced from November 1998 to December 2003, represented a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size SUV offering. Positioned as a robust and practical vehicle, the Frontera B aimed to compete in the growing European SUV market, offering four-wheel drive capability and diesel engine efficiency. This particular 2.2 DTI variant, equipped with a direct injection turbo diesel engine, served as a mid-range option within the Frontera B lineup, bridging the gap between the base models and the more powerful gasoline-powered versions. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a capable off-road vehicle with reasonable fuel economy for both on and off-road use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Frontera |
| Generation | Frontera B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 DTI (115 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | November, 1998 |
| End of production | December, 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 157 km/h (97.56 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp, 64.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1900 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Y22DTH, X22DTH |
| Engine displacement | 2171 cm3 (132.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 389 l (13.74 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1790 l (63.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4658 mm (183.39 in.) |
| Width | 1787 mm (70.35 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm (106.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Frontera B 2.2 DTI 4×4 is the Y22DTH (and sometimes X22DTH) engine, a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes direct injection technology, where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber under high pressure. This system, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows for increased power output and improved fuel efficiency compared to older indirect injection diesel engines. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and usability. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output, making it suitable for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.2 DTI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to approximately 97.56 mph. Compared to the gasoline-powered Frontera B models, the 2.2 DTI offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of outright speed. The manual transmission allowed for good control over the engine’s power band, but the relatively long gearing meant that frequent downshifts were necessary when overtaking or climbing hills. The 4×4 system, typically part-time with selectable 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, provided excellent traction in off-road conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 DTI 4×4 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, ABS brakes, central locking, and basic instrumentation. Interior appointments were functional rather than luxurious, with durable cloth upholstery and a straightforward dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a more advanced audio system. Higher trim levels, if selected, might have added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and a sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontera B utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension employed a torsion bar setup, while the rear featured coil springs. This configuration offered a good balance between ride comfort and off-road capability. Braking duties were 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 emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Frontera B 2.2 DTI 4×4 was generally well-received in the European market as a practical and affordable SUV. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and off-road capability, but some noted its relatively modest performance and somewhat basic interior. Compared to other diesel-powered SUVs of the time, such as the Mitsubishi Pajero or the Nissan Terrano, the Frontera B offered a competitive price point and a good level of standard equipment. The 2.2 DTI variant was often seen as a more sensible alternative to the more powerful, but also more expensive, gasoline-powered models.
Legacy
The Opel Frontera B, and specifically the 2.2 DTI 4×4 variant, has developed a reputation for being a reliable and durable vehicle. The Y22DTH engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered to be a robust unit capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, these vehicles can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices, making them an attractive option for those seeking a capable and practical off-road vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. The Frontera B represents a significant chapter in Opel’s SUV history, offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and off-road capability that appealed to a wide range of buyers.
