4x4 Mag - Vauxhall Frontera Sport RS

The New Frontera Sport RS

After several hundred miles it was apparent just how far Vauxhall have taken this vehicle since the last one I drove back in 1994. The Sport RS had torque as well as brake-horse-power throttle response and was infinately more tractable and a pleasure to drive. The only thing I paused to question was the £18,120 on the road asking price.

Be that as it may my short time with the new Frontera was an enjoyable one. Getting technical you can see what makes this Frontera "new". The track is wider (almost 60mm more than the previous model) giving a more balanced on-road stance, with better straight line stability and a more supple ride. This extra 60mm makes the Frontera a little more muscular looking don't you think ? It also improves cross-wind stability. Combine this extra width with a new coil spring rear suspension set-up and you get an all-together better 4x4 for road going and improved ride comfort on the rough stuff too. The rear end also has gas-pressure dampers to assist with level and ride comfort.

It's under the bonnet that most people will notice the changes - this 2.2 litre unit boasts 16 valves and develops sufficient power to propel the machine at motorway crusing speeds without strain. A very useful 2.4 ton towing weight compliments the new Frontera and makes it a more flexible all round performer. There's a diesel option on this vehicle and the long wheel base is available with a V6 petrol as well.

Four wheel drive was selectable on the move via a neat dashboard mounted switch and was accompanied by a warning light. This new system allows you to change from two high to four high at speeds of up to 60mph without stopping, very handy when trailer towing loosing traction on a steep slippery road, or pulling over onto the verge and restarting. Off road the Frontera felt stable and capable, it was just important to take into account the overhang past the back axle when clambering over obstacles. A mix of muddy tracks and gravel slopes were explored. The tyres let us down on the muddy stuff, but selecting a higher gear and changing the approach enabled this machine to traverse quite tricky terrain. Lateral stability was good and throughout both driver and passengers felt secure. A limited slip rear diff is an option on this model, one which we would recommend to anyone considering purchase.

As to the asking price, well it's a question of whether you require the additional specification of the Sport RS or are content with the slightly less well equipped 2.2i 16v at £16,620 on the road price.