1995 Vauxhall Frontera Estate 2.3 turbo diesel

Summary:

Good value for money

Faults:

Low oil pressure gauge (electronic fault). Sticky central locking front nearside door.

General Comments:

Good all round 4x4, bad reputation not deserved. This car is only let down by small silly things. I have found the 2.3 TD engine economical and although critics say it is under powered I tow all over the country with a race car and spares with no problem quietly and comfortably.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th June, 2000

1995 Vauxhall Frontera Sport "S" 2.8 TDI

Faults:

Some misfiring of engine, resulting in fuel filter being replaced twice.

New discs fitted front and rear due to vibration when braking.

Prone to rattles and squeaks.

General Comments:

Have owned both the 2.0i petrol and now the 2.8TDI.

The diesel with its torque and full independent suspension is a far better machine, although the 2.8 version is a little noisy and smoky. (Don't Know about the new 2.5 TDI.)

I have been lucky with my dealer, who can't do enough for me. I believe some are pretty bad though.

All problems sorted out without fuss under warranty, although fuel filter problem took some time to be finally diagnosed and sorted.

The 2.0i petrol (1992) was quite a problem for reliability, with such replacements as new engine bottom end, rear diff., rear window seals, etc. being carried out, again without hastle, under warranty.

Providing that you remember that the Frontera is an off-road vehicle, and not a saloon car, the ride and handling is acceptable.

It's a great fun car, but remember to go for the later diesel models if possible!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st April, 1998

9th Mar 2001, 14:32

Had 1996 SWB Frontera for three years now. No major problems, though the original exhaust was badly designed and soon rusted away as the propshaft threw water onto the silencer box seam. Revised seam now on the outside.

Various squeaks and rattles that I have resolved myself.

Rust spot on the leading edge of the bonnet.

Poor interior finish.

Not a car for a lot of travel, but ideal for fun and towing a medium sized caravan. A car with lots of hormones though - and they keep out of your way in a 4x4! Other car a Mondeo Estate. Both owned by us.

13th Jan 2002, 01:31

I have owned both the 2.4 petrol LWB and now own the 2.8 tdi LWB, the difference between the 2 is astonishing. If you need a towcar forget the 2.4 petrol, it only just has the guts to pull its own weight, so forget hitching up a caravan because you'll hate it. Get a 2.8 if you can (they made them between 1995-96), you won't regret it.

1995 Vauxhall Frontera 5 Door Estate 2.3 turbo diesel

Faults:

Continual oil leaks, radio display replaced once (and gone again) switch lights failure.

Front passenger door problems with central locking.

General Comments:

Not a bad 4x4 for the price. I have used it for Off Road and performed well. Comfort leaves a little to be desired but this ain't no sedan. Will not be getting a new one as I no longer have a need for a 4x4.

Main let downs are Dealer support. But this is a problem with Dealers of run of the mill manufacturers.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 25th January, 1998