The Opel Frontera B Sport 2.2 DTI 4×4 Automatic, produced between 1998 and 2003, represented a significant iteration of Opel’s foray into the mid-size SUV market. Positioned as a more refined and capable offering than its predecessor, the Frontera B aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.2-liter direct injection turbodiesel engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the Frontera B lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, torque, and ease of driving. It was part of the broader Frontera B series (designated as the 5HX chassis code), which shared its platform with the Isuzu Rodeo and Honda Passport, reflecting a collaborative effort between these manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Frontera |
| Generation | Frontera B Sport |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 DTI (115 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 263 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 157 km/h (97.56 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| 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 | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1137 l (40.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4268 mm (168.03 in.) |
| Width | 1787 mm (70.35 in.) |
| Height | 1692 mm (66.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2462 mm (96.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle 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 | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Frontera B Sport 2.2 DTI was the Y22DTH (and sometimes X22DTH) engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized direct injection technology, where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber under high pressure, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output, delivering 115 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a respectable 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1900 rpm. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, was a somewhat dated design. It featured a torque converter and traditional planetary gearsets. Gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, but it wasn’t known for particularly quick shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 DTI automatic combination offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. The abundance of low-end torque made it well-suited for towing and off-road driving, allowing for controlled climbs and confident maneuvering. However, the 15-second 0-60 mph acceleration time reflected the engine’s limitations. The automatic transmission, while smooth in normal driving, could feel sluggish when attempting quicker overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.2 DTI, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness. The higher-output 2.8-liter petrol engines offered significantly more power but at the expense of fuel economy. The 2.0-liter petrol and 2.5 TDI models provided alternatives, but the 2.2 DTI automatic aimed for a sweet spot of usability and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Frontera B Sport trim level generally included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an upgraded interior trim compared to the base models. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery, although leather options were available. Dashboard configuration was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury. Optional extras included a sunroof, alloy wheels, and a more advanced audio system. The Sport trim also often included body-colored bumpers and side moldings, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontera B Sport utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing robustness and off-road capability. Front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear employed a rigid axle setup with coil springs. This configuration prioritized durability and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for improved stopping power and control. Steering was via a worm-reduction unit with hydraulic power assistance. The 4×4 system was typically part-time, allowing the driver to select between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Frontera B Sport 2.2 DTI Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its off-road capability and fuel efficiency, but often criticized its lackluster performance and the dated feel of the automatic transmission. Compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Frontera B offered a more rugged and utilitarian experience. Fuel economy was generally competitive with other diesel SUVs of the time, but the CO2 emissions of 263 g/km were relatively high even by early 2000s standards. Reliability was generally good, although the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
Today, the Opel Frontera B Sport 2.2 DTI Automatic is a relatively affordable and capable used SUV. The 2.2 DTI engine, while not known for its refinement, is generally considered durable and reliable if properly maintained. The automatic transmission remains a potential weak point, and regular fluid changes are crucial. The Frontera B has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. While it may not offer the sophistication of more modern SUVs, it remains a viable option for those seeking a practical and affordable vehicle for work or adventure.
