2020 Opel/Vauxhall Grandland X Owner’s Manual

What the Brits call the Vauxhall brand, the rest of the world calls Opel. SUVs were never a big part of Opel’s lineup, but in the last several years there’s been a mini-explosion in options, the largest of which is the 2020 Opel/Vauxhall Grandland X.

The Grandland X shares quite a lot of its DNA with the Peugeot 3008 SUV. Engine options include a 1.2L gasoline model or a 1.6L diesel model, outputting 128-hp and 118-hp respectively. A 1.2L engine in a larger SUV might sound out of place when Ford’s “small” offering in its Lincoln models is still 3.5L, but the Grandland X’s engines are more capable than you think.

For drivetrains, a 6-speed manual is the norm, but drivers can opt for an automatic transmission if they prefer. One thing that’s a little unusual for a car of this scale is that there’s no 4WD/AWD option, but Opel does offer a traction booster as an optional extra to help create the effects of an AWD drivetrain.

While the suspension isn’t as comfortable as some competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, the Grandland X does offer a very commanding driving position with seemingless endless adjustability. You have to get the Elite Nav trim to access driver lumbar support.

The dash and center stack has a fantastically logical and ergonomically sound layout with layered and slanted controls for easy access. iOS and Android connectivity is standard on the regular 7-inch infotainment display --- upgradable to 8 inches on higher trims --- and detailing is quite pleasing considering the price point of about $26,000 for 2020 models (it’s about $34,000 for the 2022 model), with soft-touch and glossy surfaces abounding.

A panoramic roof will create a lighter, more open cabin, but will compromise headroom so taller passengers beware! Standard trunk capacity is 18.1 cubic feet.