The new midsize crossover in Stellantis' European lineup is available in five- or seven-passenger configurations with a hybrid ICE or BEV drivetrain configuration – but that's not the exciting part. The interesting part is this: whether you go with gas or electricity, the price you pay remains the same. (!)
Price parity, in the context of EVs, basically means that it will cost the same to buy an electric version of a car as an internal combustion version. Whether or not equity has been a priority makes sense (and many would argue that it isn't), there is still a persistent belief that EVs cost more than comparable gas vehicles.
Well, they did. The new Vauxhall Frontera shown here is a mid-size crossover that will be launched in the UK later this year at a price of £23,495 (about $30,705) for the ICE version … and £23,495 for the BEV.
There is no turning back
The Frotera SUV is part of a wider program to refresh the Stellantis range in Europe – which is going much better than its US model, it has to be said.
“The New Frontera is our new family-size SUV, offering customers innovative and efficient electric mobility at an affordable price,” said James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall. “Very flexible with up to seven seats, roomy, and with a choice of hybrid and electric powertrains, we're confident the Frotera will appeal to new and existing audiences and sit well in our updated SUV lineup within the Mokka. and the upcoming All-New Grandland.”
The new Frotera is available as a hybrid with 48-volt technology or full electric. The Frontera Hybrid has a 100 hp 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine optimized for hybrid use. This works in conjunction with a 21kW (28 hp) electric motor and an electrified six-speed dual clutch transmission, so that fuel consumption and CO.2 The carbon emissions are very low compared to the conventional power model. In addition, the Frontera Hybrid will be available with a 136 hp 1.2 turbo engine.
Customers looking to travel in a non-emissions environment can order the all-electric Frontera Electric, which is based on the new 'Smart Car' BEV-native platform – an upgrade from the current e-CMP platform – and has a 113 hp electric motor. It will offer a range of over 186 miles (c.300 km) (interim WLTP) and 100 kW charging power as standard, while the “long-range” version will be able to travel around 248 miles (c.400 km ) (WLTP temporary) without stopping to charge.
STELLANTIS
Either version comes with a “Clean Panel” digital cockpit featuring dual 10″ displays. Among the few questions, the GS trim (shown here) adds automatic climate control and Intelli-Seat front seats. The GS trim is the only option available in the seven-seat configuration, which cuts 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the standard five-seater.
The GS trim also gets you 17″-inch” alloy wheels, LED taillights, silver skid plates on body-colored bumpers, black roof and badging.
There's no word yet on whether a Dodge or Jeep version of the new Frotera will make it Stateside.
SOURCE | PHOTOS: Stellantis.
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