VAUXHALL'S new Frontera will go on sale in the UK in October with a revised engine line-up and improvements in fuel economy and noise reduction following a £100 million-plus investment to boost quality. Vauxhall says chassis, suspension and steering changes, and a shift-on-the-move system allowing four-wheel-drive to be engaged at speed, boost the vehicle's off-road capability.

Out go the 2.0i and 2.5 TDS engines, while the 2.2i petrol engine has been refined. It is joined by a new 2.2-litre ECOTEC turbodiesel and an improved version of the 3.2-litre V6 engine used in the Monterey, along with automatic transmission for the first time.

The new 12-model Frontera range will feature Sport (three-door) and five-door Estate models with specification and prices announced closer to the launch date. The new model is more rigid and more durable than the out-going model, but lighter, and bodyshell styling changes give the 4x4 a more muscular appearance and increased fuel economy. The vehicle sits on wider front and rear tracks and the Sport wheelbase has been extended. An extra window improves visibility and safety.