Opel has officially revealed the all-new Grandland, positioning it as a stylish, dynamic, spacious and versatile contender within South Africa's competitive family crossover SUV segment. This latest model marks a significant evolution for the brand, bringing design elements first showcased on the Opel Experimental concept car into production reality.
The relationship to the Experimental concept is immediately apparent. Key features making their debut include the distinctive 3D Vizor front fascia, centrally adorned with an illuminated Griffin logo enhanced by Edge Light Technology. The rear introduces permanent illuminated ‘Opel’ lettering, forming part of a new compass lighting signature.
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Another major technological introduction is the Intelli-Lux Pixel Matrix HD lighting system, featuring some 50 000 individual elements (51 200 precisely) for sophisticated light distribution.
Mike Whitfield, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa, stated, "The all-new Grandland is a milestone for Opel. The relationship to the Opel Experimental is unmistakable. It offers innovations that were first seen on this extraordinary concept car. The new Grandland will therefore strengthen our position in the important family crossover segment."
Built on new underpinnings, the Grandland presents a more confident stance. It measures 4 650 mm in length, 1 905 mm in width, and 1 665 mm in height, representing increases of 173 mm, 64 mm, and 19 mm respectively over its predecessor. Riding on 19-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R19 tyres, it adopts the ‘Opel Compass’ design principle, featuring a prominent horizontal centre crease and a visually stretched profile accentuated by a two-tone floating roof and contrast cladding.
The long 2 784 mm wheelbase and steep tailgate signal increased interior space. Sustainability is reflected in the tailgate, where the 'Grandland' name is now embossed centrally, replacing chrome lettering.
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Inside, the cabin emphasises width and a driver-focused experience. A horizontal theme flows across the instrument panel into the doors. A large 16-inch central touchscreen is slightly oriented towards the driver, complemented by a fully digital driver information cluster and an available Intelli-HUD head-up display. Opel's ‘Pure Mode’ minimises displayed information across these screens to reduce distraction during night or rainy driving. Frequently used controls retain physical buttons.
Comfort is prioritised with AGR-certified (German Campaign for Healthier Backs) ergonomic front seats. These introduce powered bolsters with pneumatic pockets for improved lateral adjustment, alongside ventilation and a massage function for the driver. Rear passengers benefit from 20 mm more legroom. The patented Intelli-Seat feature in the front seats enhances long-distance comfort. All interior fabrics utilise 100% recycled materials.
Practicality for families is addressed through versatile storage solutions totalling over 35 litres. The centrepiece is the illuminated Pixel Box within the centre console, incorporating a wireless smartphone charger and ensuring devices remain visible to prevent them being left behind. Additional storage includes phone pockets in the front seat backrests and a large compartment under the console.
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The driving experience is engineered for both comfort and dynamism, aided by frequency selective damping (FSD) technology in the chassis. This system mechanically adapts damping force based on road surface frequency, aiming to provide comfort over small bumps and sharper response during sporty driving. Opel-specific tuning for springs, anti-roll bars, steering, and ESC further defines the character.
A brief drive at the launch event, which coincided with a comprehensive update of Stellantis activities and plans in South Africa (more of which in the August issue of the ATMi magazine) confirmed two things – firstly, the range adjustments across the brands making up the Stellantis group opens up a space for Opel to compete against brands outside of the group, rather than within. Secondly, the step up from the previous Grandland become immediately apparent and this version is a worthy title chaser in the mid-size SUV segment.
An extensive suite of driver assistance systems comes standard. This includes Automatic Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Adaptation, and In Crash Braking. The Intelli-Drive 2.0 system integrates these features with semi-automatic lane-change assist and Recommended Speed Adaption. Parking is assisted by front and rear sensors, a self-cleaning rear-view camera, and an optional 360-degree Intelli-Vision camera.
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For the South African market, Opel is initially launching the Grandland GS Line 1,6T. Powered by a 1,6-litre turbo-charged petrol engine delivering 134 kW and 240 Nm, it features an automatic transmission. Opel quotes a combined fuel consumption figure of 7,0 l/100 km, reducing to 5,3 l/100 km on the open road. The GS Line specification includes colour coding, rear privacy windows, a two-tone roof, and contrasting mirror caps, alongside the comprehensive safety and comfort feature set.
The Grandland is backed by a 5-year/100 000 km warranty inclusive of Roadside Assistance, alongside a 12-year/unlimited kilometre anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are set at 12 months or 15 000 km, covered by a service plan for the first 5 years or 90 000 km.
Priced at R789 900 including VAT, the new Opel Grandland GS Line 1,6T arrives in South Africa, leveraging its modern platform, advanced technologies, and concept-inspired design to target families seeking a sophisticated crossover experience.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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