Vauxhall Frontera Estate 1.2 Hybrid GS e-DCT6 Review: Family Practicality Meets Modern Hybrid Tech
Say hello to the all-new Vauxhall Frontera Estate 1.2 Hybrid GS e-DCT6 — Vauxhall’s sharp return to the rugged family SUV game. This reimagined Frontera ditches the boxy 1990s 4x4 image for a stylish, practical crossover with hybrid smarts, designed with modern British families and business fleets in mind.
At Pendle Lease, we’ve kept a close eye on this release — and we think it offers serious value, particularly for customers looking at affordable, electrified car leasing solutions.
Exterior: Chunky but Chic
The 2025 Frontera has been given a total visual overhaul. Forget the utilitarian vibes of the original — the new model is bold, squared-off, and modern. Think urban SUV meets adventure wagon.
At the front, Vauxhall’s signature Vizor grille sets the tone, flanked by LED headlights and chunky cladding. The GS trim adds flair with gloss black roof rails, 17" alloy wheels, and a hint of sportiness that gives this family car a surprising presence.
Fun Quirk: From certain angles, the Frontera looks like it’s been watching too many Range Rover commercials. And honestly? That’s not a bad thing.
Powertrain: Hybrid Efficiency Without the Plug
Under the bonnet, the Frontera uses a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering a total output of around 136PS via a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (e-DCT6) gearbox.
It’s not a plug-in hybrid, so you won’t need to worry about cables or charging schedules — but you’ll still enjoy improved fuel economy and lower emissions. That makes it ideal for business lease customers needing to meet fleet emission targets, or private drivers who want to reduce fuel costs without changing their routine.
Performance Snapshot:
It’s no rocket, but it’s more than capable for everyday use — whether you're in the carpool lane or the motorway fast lane.
Interior: Family-Friendly Functionality
Step inside, and the Frontera’s cabin is exactly what you want from a modern Vauxhall — clean, well-built, and full of useful tech. The GS trim comes with:
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10-inch digital instrument display
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10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
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Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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Keyless start
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Dual-zone climate control
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Ergonomic front seats with comfort-focused design
Boot space is a massive win here. The Frontera boasts 460 litres of luggage space (or over 1,600 litres with the seats down), making it an ideal choice for family road trips, IKEA runs, or dog-owning adventurers.
Driving Experience: Calm, Composed, and Comfortable
This isn’t a hot hatch — and it doesn’t pretend to be. What it does offer is a smooth, predictable drive, well suited to British roads. The dual-clutch gearbox is a welcome addition, offering snappy shifts and better fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatics.
Light steering and good all-round visibility make the Frontera ideal for urban driving, while decent suspension tuning ensures you won’t lose a filling when tackling potholes in places like… well, most of the UK.
Cost and Leasing Perspective
From a vehicle leasing angle, the new Frontera represents excellent value. As a mid-sized SUV with hybrid efficiency, low BIK potential, and Vauxhall’s strong brand recognition, it’s a strong pick for:
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Business lease customers looking for economical fleet additions
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Personal lease drivers wanting SUV practicality without SUV pricing
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Families needing an upgrade that won’t break the bank
Leasing a Frontera with Pendle Lease means you get:
Competitors: What Else Should You Consider?
While the Frontera holds its own, it does face some tough rivals in this competitive segment:
Still, the Frontera stands out for offering a little bit of everything — comfort, space, tech, efficiency — all at a sensible price.
Who’s It For?
Families who want an affordable, stylish and roomy SUV.
Commuters who want hybrid gains without plug-in hassle.
Fleet managers seeking low-CO₂ alternatives with smart tech.
Drivers upgrading from superminis or smaller hatchbacks to something more versatile.
Final Verdict: Frontera Finds Its Footing
The Vauxhall Frontera Estate 1.2 Hybrid GS e-DCT6 is more than just a name revival — it’s a genuine contender in the UK hybrid SUV space. With strong tech, loads of space, and that user-friendly hybrid drivetrain, it hits a sweet spot that appeals to both fleet and private drivers alike.
At Pendle Lease, we expect the Frontera to be a popular option for vehicle leasing customers across the UK, particularly those looking to combine low running costs with practicality and a splash of modern style.
Ready to experience the new Frontera for yourself? Get in touch with Pendle Lease to explore our tailored car leasing, business lease, or personal lease deals today.
