Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic

Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic: A Detailed Overview

The Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic represents a significant entry in the burgeoning subcompact crossover SUV segment for the British market. Launched in June 2019 as part of the Crossland X generation, this particular variant, produced until October 2020, showcases Vauxhall’s commitment to offering versatile and efficient vehicles. Essentially a rebadged version of the Opel Crossland X, which itself was a product of the PSA Group (now Stellantis) platform sharing, the Crossland X was designed to appeal to families and urban dwellers seeking the practicality of an SUV with the maneuverability of a smaller car. It superseded the Vauxhall Meriva, marking a strategic shift from the declining MPV segment to the more popular SUV category, a move reflective of broader European automotive trends.

As a model primarily sold in the United Kingdom and continental Europe (as the Opel Crossland X), this vehicle was never officially offered in the United States. However, its technical specifications and market positioning are directly comparable to compact SUVs found on American roads, such as the Kia Seltos or Hyundai Kona, albeit with a distinct European flavor in terms of design and driving dynamics. The Crossland X aimed to combine a raised driving position, flexible interior space, and a compact footprint, making it ideal for navigating both city streets and longer journeys.

The Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic Powertrain and Performance

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic lies a modern and efficient 1.2-liter (1199 cm³ or 73.17 cu. in.) turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated with the model code F12XHT. This inline-three unit, positioned transversely at the front, delivers a robust 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm, translating to an impressive 108.4 horsepower per liter – a testament to its advanced engineering. The engine’s peak torque of 169.64 lb.-ft. (230 Nm) arrives early at just 1750 rpm, providing strong low-end acceleration and flexible driving characteristics, particularly useful in urban environments.

Power is managed by a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, exclusively driving the front wheels. This drivetrain architecture, combined with the eager turbocharged engine, allows the Crossland X to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 9.5 seconds, while reaching a maximum speed of 123.03 mph (198 km/h). Despite its spirited performance, the engine is designed for efficiency, featuring direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), and a Start & Stop system. These technologies contribute to a combined fuel consumption (WLTP) ranging from 35.1 to 36.8 US mpg (6.4-6.7 l/100 km), with CO2 emissions rated at 113 g/km, meeting the stringent Euro 6d emission standard.

The engine’s compact design and lightweight construction also play a role in the vehicle’s overall balance and handling. With an engine oil capacity of 3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters) and a coolant capacity of 6.02 US quarts (5.7 liters), maintenance is straightforward. The inclusion of a particulate filter for gasoline engines further underscores its commitment to environmental responsibility, a common feature in modern European vehicles.

Design, Features, and Practicality

Design & Features

The Vauxhall Crossland X adopts a contemporary SUV body type, characterized by its elevated stance, rugged styling cues, and practical five-door, five-seat configuration. Its dimensions – 165.83 inches (4212 mm) in length, 69.49 inches (1765 mm) in width (77.8 inches or 1976 mm including mirrors), and 63.19 inches (1605 mm) in height – place it firmly within the compact crossover segment. The design features a distinctive floating roof effect and a prominent grille, aligning it with Vauxhall’s then-current design language.

The interior of the Crossland X prioritizes versatility and user-friendliness. The generous 102.52-inch (2604 mm) wheelbase contributes to a surprisingly spacious cabin for its class. The trunk offers a substantial 14.48 cu. ft. (410 liters) of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to a cavernous 44.32 cu. ft. (1255 liters) when the rear seats are folded down. This flexibility makes it highly adaptable for various lifestyles, from daily commutes to weekend excursions. The fuel tank capacity of 11.89 US gallons (45 liters) provides a respectable range for its segment.

In terms of handling and safety, the Crossland X is equipped with an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, paired with a dependent spring suspension at the rear, a common setup for front-wheel-drive compact vehicles. Braking is handled by disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping power and control. The vehicle features electric power steering with a rack and pinion system, offering a minimum turning circle of 36.78 feet (11.21 meters), which aids maneuverability in tight urban spaces. Standard tire sizes include 195/60 R16 or 215/50 R17, mounted on 16-inch or 17-inch wheel rims, respectively, contributing to its stable road presence and ride comfort. The aerodynamic design is reflected in a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31.

Technical Specifications: Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic

Legacy & Market Impact of the Vauxhall Crossland X

The Vauxhall Crossland X, and by extension the Opel Crossland X, played a crucial role in Vauxhall’s product strategy during its production run. It was designed to fill a gap in the highly competitive European subcompact SUV market, targeting buyers who desired the practicality of a small family car but with the fashionable styling and elevated driving position of an SUV. Its primary competitors included well-established models like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 (which shared its platform), and the Volkswagen T-Cross.

The decision to replace the Vauxhall Meriva, a compact MPV, with the Crossland X was a direct response to shifting consumer preferences across Europe, where SUVs and crossovers rapidly gained market share at the expense of traditional hatchbacks and MPVs. The Crossland X offered a more adventurous aesthetic and perceived robustness, which resonated strongly with modern buyers. Its strong emphasis on interior flexibility, with features like a sliding rear bench seat (though not explicitly detailed for this specific variant, it was a common Crossland X feature), further enhanced its appeal to families seeking versatile space.

The 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic variant, in particular, was positioned as a well-rounded option within the Crossland X lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance and efficiency. The automatic transmission provided ease of driving, especially in congested urban areas, while the turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivered sufficient power for highway cruising without sacrificing fuel economy. This powertrain configuration aligned perfectly with the demands of the European market, where smaller, efficient turbocharged engines are highly favored due to fuel costs and emissions regulations.

While the Crossland X was never sold in the US, its engineering reflects global automotive trends towards downsizing, turbocharging, and the proliferation of crossover vehicles. Its legacy lies in its contribution to Vauxhall’s transition into the modern era of compact SUVs, demonstrating how a brand can adapt its product offerings to meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory pressures. The Crossland X proved to be a practical, efficient, and well-packaged option for its target market, solidifying Vauxhall’s presence in a vital segment.