The second generation of Opel’s largest SUV, the Opel Grandland, arrives on the market with a completely new look and modern technology. It offers diesel, petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains that can deliver up to 300 horsepower.

The German SUV is based on the shared platform of the Stellantis Group (PSA+FCA), similar to the Peugeot 3008 (Best car of 2017) or Citroën C5 Aircross. Its competitors include the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga, Mitsubishi ASX, Renault Kadjar or Skoda Karoq.

What Opel Grandland reviews agree on:

Packed interior includes two screens

The biggest changes are in the interior, which has been given a completely new architecture and high-tech equipment. New features include the Pure Panel digital cockpit, consisting of a pair of widescreen displays. A 12-inch screen directly in front of the driver displays the most important driving information and the second 10-inch display takes care of the rest of the multimedia system functions with navigation and support for Android Auto and Apple Car Play (not wireless though).

Unfortunately the infotainment is taking it’s time sometimes, which can be annoying – just like the start button, which you always have to hold long whether you want to start or turn off the engine.

With 514 l boot it offers more space than the Vauxhall Mokka and Vauxhall Crossland.

As for the exterior, what was previously an ugly duckling turned out to be a swan. This is largely due to the new Opel Vision grille, which gives the Grandland a modern and minimalist look. The sides and rear of the car have not undergone any major revolution.

Opel keeps the style of the German carmaker, some elements clearly refer to Opel Astra and Opel Insignia. The Opel’s more sedate and restrained design will be more appealing to many people than the aggressive styling of its French sibling, and it will probably age more slowly.

All drive types available

The Opel Grandland can have four different engines under its bonnet. There is a choice between the 1.2 Turbo petrol three-cylinder (130 hp and 230 Nm), the 1.5 CDTI diesel four-cylinder (130 hp and 300 Nm) and two plug-in hybrid units. The weaker electrified unit has a system output of 224 hp and consists of a 1.6 Turbo petrol engine, one electric motor on the front axle and a 13.2 kWh battery. The range-topping Hybrid4 also has a petrol straight-six in its guts, but in this case it works directly with two electric motors (one on each axle).

The hybrids are very pricey, but overall, this is not an expensive car. The price/performance comparison with the older generation actually comes out better for this one.

In the case of pure petrol engines, power can be transferred to the wheels using either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. The diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrain then works only with an automatic transmission.

Lowest trim level still rich

The Opel Grandland comes in three trims: Grandland, GS Line and Ultimate. The basic version costs from 23 400 EURO and has a relatively rich standard equipment. There are 17″ alloy wheels, a Multimedia car radio with 7″ display and 7″ driver information display, lane assist, leather steering wheel, Eco LED headlights and traffic sign recognition.

You can add on premium AGR seats, IntelliLux Led smart headlights and a Night Vision system that can detect pedestrians or wildlife up to 100 metres away in poor visibility.

Opel Grandland in numbers

• Price: 23 400-48 000 EUR
• Max power: 300 HP
• Boot space: 514 l
• Curb Wieght: 1350 kg

• Length: 4477 mm
• Width: 1856 mm
• Height: 1609
• Wheelbase: 2675 mm

Insteresting Opel Grandland reviews

Vauxhall Grandland reviewed by Top Gear

WhatCar offers different and much more critical view on Opel Grandland