The Opel Frontera B 2.2 i 4×4, produced from November 1998 to December 2003, represented a significant evolution of Opel’s foray into the mid-size SUV market. Positioned as a capable and relatively affordable all-terrain vehicle, the Frontera B aimed to appeal to buyers seeking practicality, space, and a degree of off-road capability. This 2.2-liter variant, producing 136 horsepower, occupied a middle ground within the Frontera B lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy compared to the lower-powered base models and the more potent V6 options. It was primarily sold in European markets, where it competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Terrano.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Frontera |
| Generation | Frontera B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i (136 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) | 14.8 l/100 km (15.9 US mpg, 19.1 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 161 km/h (100.04 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp, 79 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 117.3 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 | X22SE, Y22SE |
| 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 | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1722 kg (3796.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 678 kg (1494.73 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 | 1814 mm (71.42 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.) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Frontera B 2.2 i 4×4 is the X22SE or Y22SE inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 2.2 liters (2198 cc). This engine, a member of Opel’s ‘E’ family, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It employed multi-port fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The engine’s 136 horsepower peak arrived at 5200 rpm, while its 202 Nm (148.99 lb-ft) of torque was readily available at 2600 rpm. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the chassis, a configuration common in rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and drivability. The transmission was chosen for its durability and relative simplicity, aligning with the Frontera’s intended use as a robust utility vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2-liter engine, paired with the manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.7 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 100 mph. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, making it reasonably tractable in everyday driving situations. However, when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines, the engine could feel strained. Compared to the more powerful Frontera B 3.2 V6, the 2.2 i offered significantly less outright performance. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards providing sufficient pulling power for off-road conditions and towing, rather than maximizing on-road acceleration. The four-wheel-drive system, typically part-time with selectable 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, provided enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making the Frontera B a competent off-roader for recreational use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Frontera B 2.2 i 4×4 typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its positioning as a value-oriented SUV. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric windows, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels, if available, might add features like leather upholstery and wood trim. The focus was on practicality and durability rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontera B utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. Front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear employed coil springs. This setup offered a reasonable compromise between ride comfort and off-road capability. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance safety. The ABS system helped maintain steering control during hard braking. The Frontera B’s relatively high weight (1722 kg / 3796.36 lbs) contributed to its stable handling, but also impacted its acceleration and fuel economy.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Frontera B 2.2 i 4×4 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable SUV. Critics praised its off-road capability and spacious interior, but noted its somewhat unrefined engine and basic interior appointments. Compared to the V6 models, the 2.2 i offered better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 2.2-liter engine proved to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance was essential. Fuel economy figures were around 14.8 l/100 km (15.9 US mpg) in urban driving and 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) on the highway.
Legacy
The Opel Frontera B, including the 2.2 i 4×4 variant, has developed a modest following among enthusiasts and those seeking a capable and affordable used SUV. The X22SE engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Parts availability is generally good, although some components may be becoming increasingly difficult to source. Today, the Frontera B represents a relatively affordable entry point into the world of four-wheel-drive vehicles, offering a blend of practicality, space, and off-road capability that continues to appeal to a niche market.
