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“We have owned a 54 reg Fontera Sport 3.2l V6 (SWB)...”

written by ramtec on 01/02/2010

We have owned a 54 reg Fontera Sport 3.2l V6 (SWB) since new. The shocks supplied by the factory were faulty when new. The factory's inspector visited the dealer and pronounced them as ok, without knowing that we had already put them on a rig. One front shock had 25% of the damping of the other. The fault was potentially lethal. Lesson 1: If you get a Frontera don't let a Vauxhall employee anywhere near it.



This episode prompted me to buy some new Koni 4x4 adjustable shocks and, when paired with Bridgestone Duelers (H rate, not S rate) they transformed the vehicle into a sports car! The V6 Isuzu engine has a sub 8 second 0-60 and is capable of over 120mph. The change in shocks and tyres means that you can really use the performance. As a benchmark, I have 22 years competitive experience in professional motorsport and have been a factory tyre tester. Believe me, this vehicle is sooo good they should put it back in production but with different shocks and tyres. Just remember Lesson 2: If you get a Frontera don't let a Vauxhall employee anywhere near it.



Off-road, my experience includes off-road courses in a number of different Land Rovers. I have yet to find anthing that the Frontera can't handle, the only restriction being my own ability to stay planted in the seat!



For towing, I have pulled both lightweight and heavyweight trailers and am pleased to report that, because of the gentler driving style, I get better fuel consumption towing that I do with the vehicle unladen. (I did say it was like a sports car!)



Servicing is easier than an easy thing from Easyville, on a particularly easy day in EasyLand but remember Lesson 3: If you get a Frontera don't let a Vauxhall employee anywhere near it.



I had one warranty repair with self-activating headlight washers that took a dealer five attempts to get right, each time it being apparent that they hadn't tested for the fault after the 'repair'. Once your warranty is up, remember Lesson 4: If you get a Frontera don't let a Vauxhall employee anywhere near it.



I wouldn't sell mine for any price but do remember Lesson 5: If you get a Frontera don't let a Vauxhall employee anywhere near it.