We drive the Opel Grandland X
This week we’ve been enjoying Opel’s newest member to its X-family, the Opel Grandland X.
Offering top technology, off-road looks, new lighting, more space and comfort and a superbly smooth ride, we figured it would be the perfect vehicle to road trip in. So I gathered my 80+-year-old grandparents, as well as my hyperactive brother (who isn’t the best road tripper with all his restlessness) and we headed out to Pringle Bay for the day.
Here’s what stood out for us in the Opel Grandland X…
5 things we love
Top technology
All the Opel X family members are loaded with technology to keep you connected on the road. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink also comes as standard. The modern infotainment system brings the world of smartphones into the car while ensuring easy access via the eight-inch colour touchscreen or via voice control.
In terms of safety technology, the Grandland X offers features such as a speed limiter with Intelligent Speed Adaption, Hill Start Assist, Lane departure warning and Speed Sign Recognition, to name just a few.
We love the Grandland X’s 360° camera that offers a surrounding view of the car – not only when you’re reversing, but when you’re approaching any obstacles from the front too.
Off-road looks
Opel notes that the Grandland X is where sporty character meets the spirit of adventure. We love that it boasts off-road intentions through its bold and outdoorsy personality. In such a competitive SUV segment, we love when manufacturers build a car that represents a perfect balance of elegance and sportiness, and the Grandland X is exactly this. It’s athletic but still maintains its sense of refinement from the very first look!
New lighting
You won’t be lost in the dark in the Grandland X, thanks to increased visibility from innovative headlamps with Adaptive Forward Lighting and 30% brighter vision than with conventional headlamps. The Adaptive headlights look ahead of curves and keep the high beam activated without affecting oncoming vehicles. It also automatically adapts to driving conditions.
Also read: New SUV: The Opel Grandland X
Space and comfort for days
The Grandland X’s spaciousness and high level of comfort really stood out, especially while travelling along Clarens Drive where driving uncomfortably can be a real problem for families. I think we all agreed that the heated seats in the Grandland X kept us feeling pretty cosy on such a cold day in the Cape! To quote my 82-year-old grandmother who is currently recovering from a double-fusion back operation, “I feel more comfortable in this car than I do in my own bed!”
A relaxing high seating position gives a comfortable lookout too. The heated and ventilated ergonomic AGR front seats adjust electronically in up to 16 ways for the perfect sitting position.
Smooth ride
On the road, the Grandland X is practical, capable and responsive. Light and precise steering is a real joy, especially when maneuvering in and out of tricky spaces, or if like us you miss the Pringle Bay turn off and need to turn back, safely.
“She glides!” remarked Gran, and it’s true that the Grandland X really does offer the smoothest of rides. We had the chance to get off the beaten track for a bit and enjoyed how quiet and smooth the ride quality was on gravel.
Overall, the Grandland X is an SUV that certainly stands out for us in such a competitive segment, and we’re sure that those who get out and test drive it will see what all the fuss is about, so go and give it a try…
Pricing
Opel Grandland X 1.6T A/T | R429 000
Opel Grandland X 1.6T Enjoy A/T | R465 000
Opel Grandland X 1.6T Cosmo A/T | R565 000