In the jungle of urban electric SUVs, the Opel Frontera wants to make a big impact. Already offered at under $27,500 in the base version, the German compact SUV returns in an “Extended Range” variant equipped with a larger battery and targeted optimizations, offering up to 254 miles of range. A technical advancement in service of more accessible electric mobility.
While most of the design and technical specifications remain identical, this long-range version hides numerous improvements under its body: 54 kWh battery, lowered chassis, low-resistance tires, and enhanced regenerative braking. All these subtle modifications allow for gaining up to 62 miles of range compared to the standard version, without sacrificing driving comfort.
With a starting price of $29,700, the Frontera Electric Extended Range positions itself as one of the most interesting 100% electric SUVs on the market. Opel responds here to a clear demand: offer an affordable, versatile vehicle capable of handling real intercity trips.
A Compact Electric SUV Redesigned to Go Further
In its 100% electric version, the Opel Frontera establishes itself as a versatile urban SUV, designed for a broad clientele. But in its Extended Range variant, it gains in range, efficiency, and credibility for considering longer trips. It’s therefore much more than just a bigger battery: Opel has refined its approach on several key points.
The Frontera Electric Extended Range maintains its compact size and modern lines, but now houses a 54 kWh battery (versus 44 kWh on the base version), allowing it to achieve up to 254 miles of EPA-estimated range. To achieve this result, Opel didn’t just integrate a new battery: the brand revised the vehicle’s aerodynamics by lowering the body height by 0.4 inches and adopting new specific wheels mounted on very low-resistance tires.
Result: a version that’s visually almost identical, but technically much more efficient. This foundational work illustrates Opel’s desire to offer an SUV better suited for versatile use, especially for drivers hesitant to make the electric leap due to concerns about limited range.
Up to 254 Miles of Range Thanks to a Larger Battery
The new 54 kWh net battery provides approximately 62 additional miles of range compared to the standard version rated at 190 miles. The technical specifications now announce 254 miles EPA-estimated, which allows the Frontera Extended Range to move into another usage category: that of vehicles capable of handling extra-urban trips or short getaways without stress.
According to road tests, this value appears realistic: with a charge at 92%, the gauge indicated 233 miles remaining, a coherent correspondence with official data. Opel didn’t stop at the battery. The manufacturer also recalibrated the regenerative braking, with deceleration increased from 1.2 to 1.4 m/s², favoring energy recovery in urban driving. A “C” mode remains available for those who prefer gentler regeneration on highways.
All these technical adjustments make this version a serious alternative to gasoline vehicles for daily use, without giving up the driving simplicity offered by an electric motor.
Reduced Consumption and Enhanced Comfort
The efforts deployed by Opel on the Extended Range version translate into a significant reduction in consumption: from 18.3 to 16.5 kWh/100 km (approximately 3.7 to 3.8 miles/kWh), according to official data. A progress explained by the work done on mass, rolling resistance, and driving fluidity, without harming the vehicle’s overall appeal.
The motor remains unchanged: 151 hp (113 kW), with sufficient performance for urban, suburban, and moderate highway use. The Frontera maintains its balanced driving, without harshness, and offers good sound insulation for the segment. In the city, enhanced regenerative braking improves energy recovery, while on the road, it remains possible to adopt a smoother and more linear driving mode.
Equipment-wise, two trims are offered: Edition, with functional and sober equipment, and GS, more upscale, with enriched content, particularly regarding connectivity and driver assistance. Ergonomics remain simple, trunk volume is generous, and interior space is suitable for a family.
Very Competitive Pricing for the Segment
The launch price in the US market would be particularly attractive: $29,700 for the Edition version, and $33,200 for the GS trim. Pricing that would place the Frontera Electric Extended Range among the most affordable electric SUVs on the market, while offering more than 250 miles of range. A rare configuration at this price point.
This pricing strategy allows Opel to target a broad clientele: individuals looking for their first electric vehicle, corporate fleets, and households seeking a reliable, modular, and accessible SUV. This model therefore enters direct competition with vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox EV, Nissan Ariya, or even Chinese offerings like the BYD Atto 3.
By focusing on efficiency, solid engineering, and realistic range, the Frontera Extended Range embodies a pragmatic vision of electric mobility: accessible, well-designed, and adapted to real-world usage, without falling into flashiness.
