By Ian Strachan
Long before Peugeot’s parent company had taken over Vauxhall/Opel the two manufacturers were already co-operating to produce individually-badged vehicles from common floor pans, writes motoring editor Ian Strachan
One of the results of this collaboration is the largest of Vauxhall’s SUV range – the Grandland X, which is based on the same floorpan as the much-acclaimed Peugeot 3008.
But the cars, apart from being pretty much the same size, are very different. The Vauxhall maintains many design cues which will appeal to the British maker’s traditional buyers. What you get with a Grandland X is a roomy vehicle which combines the performance and handling of a hatchback with the stability and size of a bigger 4×4 or MPV.
And now, with the Grandland X Ultimate, you also get pretty much every extra you can think of as standard.
The medium sector Grandland X SUV has a tough appearance and a stable ride as well as bags of room inside. You also gets bags of technology, particularly with Vauxhall’s OnStar system which gives maximum connectivity. A wi-fi hotspot, automatic crash response, smartphone, and vehicle diagnostics are all available at the touch of a button.
The Grandland X Ultimate which I tested is powered by a willing 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine delivering brisk 177bhp performance. This is a car that looks at home on a motorway or negotiating country lanes, helped by stability control and multiple-choice traction control for maximum grip.
As a result it handles remarkably well. Cornering is sure footed with no body roll. The engine provides good performance throughout the speed range, delivering power smoothly but with plenty of mid-range pull. It’s helped by a stepless eight speed automatic transmission.
Fuel consumption comes in at 57.6 miles to the gallon in mixed driving, which is good for a car of this size and content.
The well-equipped interior is light, well laid out, and spacious with plenty of room for five adults. The large luggage area can be further improved with the ability to fold the three rear seats flat.
The technology is standard across all models, and includes a premium infotainment system controlled on a clear eight-inch touchscreen. All the information, entertainment and control you need is at the touch of a fingertip including smartphone projection, navigation, DAB radio, voice control and Apple CarPlay. You even get a wireless Smartphone charging plate – extremely useful.
Other equipment levels are exceptionally generous. Standard features on the Ultimate include smart diamond-cut 19 inch alloys, front fog lights, powered tailgate, lane departure warning and blind spot alert,360 degree panoramic camera, traction control and hill start assist. You also get LED daytime running lights, automatic cruise control with intelligent speed limiter, electronic dual zone climate control, powered, heated door mirrors, heated electric front sports seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, panoramic glass roof, park assist and all round electric windows. My test car came with tri-coat premium paint at an extra £725.
This is a solid and enjoyable vehicle that looks good and has every extra you could dream of, short of a butler. And you’ll love playing with the technology. The Grandland X Ultimate comes in at £34,280 which is not cheap but you get a lot of car with no compromises in quality or specification.
