Do you remember the original Vauxhall Frontera? Part of a small group of capable off-roaders launched in the early nineties, it was originally a mid-size SUV based on an Isuzu model and assembled at Vauxhall’s Luton factory. It certainly had staying power, as it lasted for two generations before eventually being discontinued in 2005.

Well, it’s back – or rather, as Vauxhall claims, its spirit is! And just like Ford’s current Capri, having driven both the original and this car, the name is the only link to its predecessor!

This time around, the Frontera is Vauxhall’s small SUV, built on parent company Stellantis’s ‘Smart Car’ BEV-native platform. Although, with its tall, Citroen C3 Aircross-like shape, the Frontera seems much bigger than the Fiat Grande Panda, which shares the same underpinnings.

More interesting than the badge itself is that, following the ‘Electric Car Grant’, EV versions – like the one we’re testing here – are actually cheaper than the petrol mild-hybrid versions of the Frontera. Despite this, we’re mostly seeing ICE versions of this Vauxhall on the road.

The overall shape might look more like a Citroen than a Vauxhall, but the Frontera follows the Vauxhall family look, with the Vizor grille and distinctive Intelli-LED headlights at the front. Other distinctive design features include the curvy C-pillar, which stands out even more with our Ultimate’s black roof.

The interior follows the look of the rest of the current Vauxhall range, with the same ‘Pure Panel’ dashboard design, featuring two 10in displays for the instruments and infotainment. The infotainment is pleasingly simple to operate, while we’re also fans of the comfortable driving position and supportive Intelli-seats.

Elsewhere, interior stowage impresses. There’s a wireless phone charger, while a ‘Storage Shelf’ and what Vauxhall calls the ‘Flex Strap’ – to hold bigger items such as tablets – are both fitted in the centre console. Although the ‘Flex Strap’ looks a bit cheap.

Overall, there’s a generally impressive level of space in the front – which isn’t a surprise considering there’s almost as much room as in the bigger Vauxhall Astra. Rear space is generous, too. This is a good thing, as the option of an extra pair of seats in the boot is only available on GS mild-hybrid models for an additional £500. However, we’ve tried them – and reckon they’re only suitable for kids.

Otherwise, the 460-litre boot is practically shaped. And despite feeling sturdy, the interior finishes feel cheaper than you’d expect.

Performance and drive

A larger battery version with a range of up to 248 miles is expected, but currently the only EV Frontera is fitted with a 44kWh battery, producing 113hp and 125Nm of torque, and offering a modest range of 188 miles. So, the range might not be large, but it can be fast-charged, going from 20 to 80% on a rapid charger in just 26 minutes.

This Vauxhall’s performance is best described as ‘adequate’, and it’s at its most sprightly when accelerating. Choose ‘Comfort’ mode and, because of the retarded throttle response, the Frontera EV feels underpowered. So, overall, the performance might not be memorable, but the ride is impressively refined on our top-spec ‘Ultimate’ equipment grade, with its standard 17in wheels. Brake feel is good for an EV, too. Only the slow steering spoils the Frontera EV’s driving experience.

As can be seen from the early Fronteras on UK roads, Vauxhall predicts the petrol mild-hybrid versions will be the best-sellers. Having driven both, it’s the EV version that we have here that’s best to drive, in our opinion.

The affordable EV market still seems a key area of growth for fleet, and the Vauxhall Frontera fits in well. We’d only choose its sister car, the Citroen C3 Aircross, because of its Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension, which adds another layer of refinement to the drive. A likeable, spacious and high-value package, the electric version deserves every success.

Positive: Spacious and practical interior, comfortable ride, affordable.
Negative: Adequate to drive, cheap feel to some of the interior trim.

Standard equipment: Intelli-LED headlights, rear-view camera, rear parking sensors, cruise control, PureConnect Infotainment system, 10in touchscreen, Connected Navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice recognition, wireless charging, manual air-conditioning, rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, electrically adjustable door mirrors, 16in steel wheels with covers.