We Drive: The Opel Grandland X Enjoy 1.6T Automatic
Opel’s SUV flagship model, the Grandland X, launched locally in May 2018, and we recently spent some time with its updated Enjoy 1.6T Automatic model. Here’s everything you need to know about the Grandland X…
On the outside, the Grandland X has a stylish design with sharp cut lines, a muscular stature and an athletic attitude. The new Enjoy model also receives updates such as 18″ Alloy Wheels, Front Fog Lamps, Rear Privacy Glass, as well as Roof Rails as Standard, to name a few. It has a good combination of sleek, yet sporty and unpretentious looks and I like that Opel hasn’t tried anything too elaborate with its design, keeping it modest and well-suited to the city as well as road trip destinations. If, however, you find that its exterior personality isn’t vibey enough, you could move one trim higher (to the COSMO level) and opt for a stylish 2-toned roof – but you’ll pay a bit extra.
What really stood out during my test drive with the Grandland X was the level of comfort that its cabin has to offer. There’s a real sense of calm and restfulness when you step in – and when you’re out doing long trips or stuck in traffic, it does a good job at making life behind the wheel less stressful. You’ll find premium materials, ergonomic seats that are as supportive and adjustable, and a sleek dashboard that is uncluttered but functional. The nicely-sized IntelliLink infotainment system is easy to use and now includes navigation as standard on the Enjoy trim.
There’s ample technology in the Grandland X and in terms of safety, our test unit came with Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Assist that really keeps you feeling extra secure on the roads. Parking is a breeze with its 360 degree surround camera that detects any obstructions or objects in the way – you really start to rely on this once you’re used to using one. After my week with the Grandland X I struggled to adjust to not having use of one again!
In terms of drive quality and handling on the road, the Grandland X feels smooth and sturdy, but also light in weight despite it being a fairly large SUV. This is thanks to the use of lightweight materials that make for better aerodynamics and propulsion. The 1.6 turbo engine offers 121 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque, and is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox that is responsive and doesn’t delay or feel lost during gearshifts. Out on the highway, overtaking slow-moving vehicles or dealing with steep inclines is a breeze and there’s a sense of confidence that you get from a high seating position in the driver’s seat. It’s also super quiet in the cabin and free from road and wind noise. Light and easy steering makes city driving a lot less stressful, and at night, customers will ‘Enjoy’ Opel’s ‘Sight & Light’ pack that enhances your night-time vision by lighting up corners and adjusting brightness.
Overall, the Opel Grandland X is a practical and comfortable SUV worth considering, especially if you’re after a vehicle that feels solid, safe and refined without being overly pretentious.
The Opel Grandland X 1.6T Enjoy is priced from R478 950. Click here for more.