Stellantis Transforms Its Most Affordable SUV Into A Tree House With A View | Carscoops

      The optional roof tent for the Opel Frontera provides sleeping space for two adults.

      16 hours ago

      By Thanos Pappas

      Opel's budget-friendly SUV now features a roof tent designed for camping as a distinctive accessory.

      Priced at $2,800, the rooftop tent accommodates two adults and can fold flat when not in use.

      The Citroen C3 Aircross might also be compatible with this tent upgrade due to shared design elements.

      Affordable SUVs typically offer little more than basic mobility and foldable seats. However, the Opel Frontera, among the most economical models from Stellantis, adds a bit more value, especially with the introduction of a camping-ready roof tent in its accessories collection.

      Targeted at budget-minded families, the Frontera provides solid practicality and a spacious interior, while this new feature enhances its appeal for weekend adventures.

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      The Thule Foothill roof tent attaches to the Frontera's optional aluminum roof racks, which support a weight of up to 240 kg (530 pounds). It can accommodate two adults, provided they can fit into a sleeping area measuring 2.13 x 1.19 m (83.9 x 46.9 inches). Its breathable, weather-resistant fabric keeps campers dry during rain, and a large shade offers sun protection.

      Accessing the tent is made easy with a retractable ladder that connects to the side of the vehicle. The windows are equipped with flynets for ventilation and insect prevention. When not in use, the tent folds into a compact rectangular unit that rises only 240 mm (9.5 inches) above the rack.

      Camping Without the Need for a Van

      Notably, Opel chose to highlight the roof tent on the base Edition variant of the Frontera instead of the more premium GS trim. The Edition variant comes with basic white steel wheels and a contrasting two-tone exterior that lends itself to a weekend getaway vibe.

      Opel emphasizes that the Frontera is suitable for camping due to its combination of space and storage. The SUV measures 4,385 mm (172.6 inches) in length and has a cargo capacity ranging from 460 to 1,600 liters (16.2 to 56.5 cubic feet), depending on seat configuration. Additional interior storage features enhance its practicality.

      Mild-Hybrid Capability (Sort Of)

      The roof tent setup is compatible with the entire Frontera range, including mild-hybrid and fully electric models. The vehicle shown in the images displays its powertrain through visible cooling intakes and an exhaust pipe, confirming the inclusion of the mild-hybrid 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine. This engine produces 99 hp (74 kW / 100 PS), with an additional 28 hp (21 kW / 28 PS) from an electric motor integrated into the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

      Given that the Frontera shares its central structure and roof design with the Citroen C3 Aircross, it is likely that the same roof tent could also fit that SUV. For those needing more space (and willing to pay for it), Opel and Citroën offer larger models such as the Grandland and C5 Aircross, though they can be pricey.

      More: Which New Stellantis Compact SUV Would You Actually Purchase?

      If you're exploring options outside Stellantis, the closest competitors to the Opel Frontera are the Dacia Jogger crossover and Duster SUV, both of which can be equipped with an optional Sleep Pack and other camping accessories.

      Regarding pricing, the roof tent is available on Opel’s official accessory page for €2,447 ($2,800). However, buyers will also need to purchase the aluminum roof racks, priced at €298 ($336). The base hybrid trim of the Opel Frontera starts at €23,900 ($27,000) in Germany.