Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp)

Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp)

The Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) represents a significant offering within the compact SUV segment for the United Kingdom and other European markets. Produced by the British automotive marque Vauxhall, a subsidiary of Opel and part of the larger PSA Group (now Stellantis), the Grandland X was introduced in July 2019 as a refreshed iteration of its first-generation model, continuing production until July 2021. Sharing its platform and many components with the Opel Grandland X, this vehicle was engineered to provide a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and modern design for families and individuals seeking a versatile daily driver. Positioned as a direct competitor to popular C-segment SUVs in Europe, the Grandland X emphasized fuel economy and reduced emissions, particularly with its advanced 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, making it a relevant choice for the evolving automotive landscape.

Engine and Performance of the Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo

At the heart of the Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo lies a sophisticated 1.2-liter (1199 cm³ or 73.17 cu. in.) three-cylinder inline engine, designated by the code D12XHT. This compact yet potent powertrain is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, ensuring robust performance despite its modest displacement. It employs a direct injection fuel system, a modern approach that optimizes fuel atomization and combustion efficiency, contributing to both power output and fuel economy. The engine also features Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT), further enhancing its operational flexibility across the RPM range.

The 1.2 Turbo engine delivers a respectable 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 108.4 HP/l, a strong figure for an engine of this size. More notably, it generates a substantial 169.64 lb.-ft. (230 Nm) of torque, available at a low 1750 rpm. This early peak torque is crucial for an SUV, providing excellent responsiveness and acceleration from a standstill, as well as confident overtaking maneuvers. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, a common and efficient setup for this class of vehicle. The front-wheel-drive architecture, combined with the transverse engine layout, optimizes interior space and contributes to a lighter overall vehicle weight. Performance figures include a top speed of 116.82 mph (188 km/h), making it well-suited for both urban driving and highway cruising. Furthermore, its compliance with the Euro 6d emission standard and CO2 emissions of 115 g/km highlight its environmental consciousness, a key selling point in European markets.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Grandland X adopts a contemporary SUV body type, characterized by its five-door, five-seat configuration, offering practical versatility for families. Its exterior dimensions – a length of 176.26 inches (4477 mm), a width of 73.07 inches (1856 mm), and a height of 63.35 inches (1609 mm) – place it firmly within the compact SUV segment. The design features a wheelbase of 105.31 inches (2675 mm), contributing to a stable ride and ample interior room for passengers and cargo.

Inside, the Grandland X prioritizes comfort and utility. The trunk space is generous, ranging from a minimum of 18.15 cubic feet (514 liters) with all seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 58.34 cubic feet (1652 liters) when the rear seats are folded down. This flexibility makes it highly adaptable for various cargo needs, from grocery runs to holiday luggage. The vehicle’s suspension system comprises an independent McPherson type at the front and a semi-independent setup with coil springs at the rear, a common and effective combination for achieving a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front (304 mm) and solid discs at the rear (268 mm), complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Electric power steering, a rack and pinion type, provides precise control and ease of maneuvering in diverse driving conditions. The Grandland X also offers a choice of tire sizes, including 215/65 R17, 225/55 R18, and 235/50 R19, allowing for customization of ride and aesthetics.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Vauxhall Grandland X

The Vauxhall Grandland X, particularly the 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) variant, played a crucial role in Vauxhall’s product lineup during its production run from 2019 to 2021. As a rebadged version of the Opel Grandland X, it exemplified the synergy within the PSA Group, allowing Vauxhall to offer a competitive product in the booming compact SUV segment without extensive independent development costs. This model was a direct response to the massive consumer shift towards SUVs and crossovers across Europe, where vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga (known as Escape in the US), Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan dominated sales charts.

In the UK, Vauxhall has a long-standing heritage and a loyal customer base. The Grandland X was vital for the brand to maintain its market share against increasingly fierce competition. Its strengths lay in its practical interior, comfortable ride, and the efficiency of its turbocharged gasoline engines. The 1.2-liter turbo engine, in particular, was praised for its balance of performance and fuel economy, making it an attractive option for buyers concerned with running costs and environmental impact, especially given the strict European emission standards. Its low CO2 emissions and Euro 6d compliance were significant advantages.

The Grandland X’s market impact was largely defined by its ability to offer a compelling package of features and practicality at a competitive price point, leveraging its shared platform with Opel to ensure modern technology and robust engineering. While not known for groundbreaking innovation, it consistently delivered on the core expectations of a family SUV: space, safety, and reliability. Its straightforward design and user-friendly features resonated with a broad audience seeking a dependable and sensible vehicle. The Grandland X helped solidify Vauxhall’s position in the crossover segment, paving the way for its successor, the Grandland (dropping the “X” suffix), which continues to compete in the same vital market space with updated styling and technology.