Space and technology – Opel Grandland: This is how the SUV becomes a flagship

Opel will launch the second generation of the Grandland in autumn. The brand’s largest SUV to date is growing significantly again. A new platform also enables a purely electric drive for the first time.

Without a doubt, today’s Grandland is one of Opel’s most successful models. The Rüsselsheim-based company’s largest SUV is well received by customers thanks to its sporty, slim design and attractive proportions. But sometimes there was also criticism. Size emerged as the most important point. Families in particular complained about the associated restrictions in terms of space, variability and trunk space. Utility before designOpel’s developers took this to heart. When the new Grandland – it’s the second generation – rolls into dealers in autumn, the brand’s flagship SUV will have unusual dimensions. From now on, the Grandland – which has grown by over 17 centimeters to 4.65 meters – is almost a class higher and stands significantly more massive and upright on its wheels. The slim proportions of its predecessor are alien to it. Unmistakable: Here, utility took precedence over design. The Grandland number two is immediately recognizable by the 3D Vizor front and the Opel flash that is illuminated for the first time. The stylish face is intended to usher in the beginning of a new design philosophy. The 3D Vizor front, which is completely under glass, celebrated its debut last year in the “Experimental” study. It also shines innovatively at the rear in the form of the illuminated Opel logo.Rüsselsheimer Revolution under the sheet metalThe new Grandland is the first Opel to stand on the Stellantis STLA Medium platform, which was developed primarily for electric cars. It is currently considered the most advanced and efficient in the volume segment. With the largest battery (98 kWh), a range of up to 700 kilometers should be possible. Opel also promises that only 26 minutes should be enough to charge up to 80 percent of capacity. Up to 160 kW charging power is possible. The headquarters are still keeping quiet about further technical data. However, you will find what you are looking for at the sister brand Peugeot. Because the E-3008 is on the same platform, the entry-level version has 157 kW/213 hp, front-wheel drive and a 73 kWh battery. With it, 527 kilometers should be possible with one filling. Opel will probably also offer a sporty all-wheel drive version similar to Peugeot. The E-3008 with dual motor has a powerful 240 kW/320 hp, which should provide plenty of driving fun. Also mild or plug-in hybridized. If you’re new to purely electric drive, you can also get the new Grandland as a 48- Get a Volt mild hybrid or a plug-in hybrid. For the latter, an electric range of 85 kilometers is specified. The mild hybrid has a 1.2-liter turbo gasoline engine with an output of 100 kW/136 hp. The electric motor contributes 21 kW/28 hp. Opel’s flagship SUV is completely up to date when it comes to digitalization. The cockpit includes a very large (16-inch) flat screen on the center console and a ten-inch driver information display behind the steering wheel. For the first time there is a head-up display. Infotainment software and connectivity can be updated “over the air”. Even the artificial intelligence Chat GPT is integrated. But despite all the touch and voice controls, Opel fortunately sticks to a few switches and buttons, for example for the climate control and volume control. Seats with tailbone protection The newly developed front seats (Intelli-Seats) should ensure relaxation, especially on longer journeys. They not only have a massage and ventilation function, but also a narrow recess in the middle of the seat that is intended to relieve the pressure on the tailbone. Rear passengers have two centimeters more knee room. The rear seat backs can be split in a 40:20:40 ratio. The trunk holds 550 liters with the backrests up. It’s 1641 liters. The height of the loading floor is adjustable. Overall, with the new Grandland, Opel has put a very practical and at the same time innovative SUV on its wheels. This is demonstrated not only by the modern drives and the entire bundle of electronic assistance systems, but also by the so-called Intelli-Lux Pixel HD light as well as materials and surfaces in the interior, all of which are made from recycled PET plastics. Opel gives the exact prices for the new Grandland later. However, around 40,000 euros can be assumed for the mild hybrid. The plug-in hybrid version and the fully electric Grandland should start at around 45,000 euros.
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