Vauxhall Grandland X 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp)

Vauxhall Grandland X 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp)

The Vauxhall Grandland X 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp) represents a significant offering from the British marque in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Introduced in July 2019 and produced until July 2021, this particular variant of the Grandland X generation was a crucial model for Vauxhall, especially within the European market. As a rebadged version of the Opel Grandland X, it leveraged platform sharing from its then-parent company, PSA Group (now Stellantis), signifying a shift in design and engineering philosophy for the brand. Positioned as a family-friendly crossover, the Grandland X aimed to combine SUV practicality with car-like driving dynamics, offering a compelling package of space, efficiency, and modern features. Its diesel powertrain, specifically the 1.5-liter Turbo D, was tailored to meet the demands for fuel economy and lower emissions prevalent in European markets, adhering to the stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard.

Engine and Performance of the Vauxhall Grandland X

At the heart of this specific Grandland X variant is a robust and efficient 1.5-liter (1499 cm³ or 91.47 cu. in.) Turbo D diesel engine. This four-cylinder inline powerplant, designated by the engine model/code D15DTH, is transversely mounted at the front and utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s aspiration system features a turbocharger complemented by an intercooler, ensuring optimal air intake and combustion efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a sophisticated Diesel Commonrail injection system, which precisely controls fuel atomization for improved performance and reduced emissions.

The 1.5 Turbo D engine generates a respectable 130 horsepower (Hp) at 5500 revolutions per minute (rpm), providing a power output of 86.7 Hp per liter. More impressively for a diesel engine, it delivers a substantial 221.27 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm. This broad torque band is crucial for everyday driving, offering strong acceleration from a standstill and ample passing power, particularly beneficial for a family SUV. Power is sent to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, emphasizing driver engagement and control.

In terms of performance, the Vauxhall Grandland X 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp) is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 119.3 mph (192 km/h). Its efficiency is highlighted by its CO2 emissions figure of 108 g/km, classifying it under the Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard, which was a critical consideration for European buyers due to environmental regulations and taxation. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter, a standard feature for modern diesels to reduce harmful exhaust emissions. With an engine oil capacity of 4 liters (4.23 US qt), maintenance for this powertrain is straightforward. The Grandland X’s powertrain architecture, with the internal combustion engine driving the front wheels, ensures a balanced blend of efficiency, traction, and cost-effectiveness, making it a practical choice for a wide range of consumers.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Grandland X embodies the contemporary design language of compact SUVs, characterized by its confident stance and practical proportions. As an SUV body type with five doors and seating for five occupants, it prioritizes versatility and passenger comfort. Its exterior dimensions – a length of 176.26 inches (4477 mm), a width of 73.07 inches (1856 mm) (82.6 inches or 2098 mm including mirrors), and a height of 63.35 inches (1609 mm) – contribute to its commanding road presence while remaining manageable for urban environments. The wheelbase of 105.31 inches (2675 mm) is generous for its class, contributing to a stable ride and maximizing interior space.

Inside, the Grandland X focuses on ergonomic design and user-friendly features. The cabin is designed to be spacious and accommodating for five adults, with particular attention paid to cargo capacity. The trunk (boot) offers a minimum of 18.15 cu. ft. (514 liters) of space, which expands significantly to an impressive 58.34 cu. ft. (1652 liters) with the rear seats folded down, making it highly practical for family trips, shopping, or transporting larger items.

The vehicle’s chassis and suspension setup are engineered for a comfortable yet controlled ride. It features an independent McPherson type front suspension, renowned for its balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The rear utilizes a semi-independent coil spring suspension, a common and effective design for front-wheel-drive crossovers, providing a good compromise between cost, packaging, and performance. Braking performance is handled by ventilated discs measuring 304 mm at the front and solid discs measuring 268 mm at the rear, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety during emergency stops. Steering is managed by an electric power steering rack and pinion system, offering light effort at low speeds for easy maneuvering and more feedback at higher speeds. The Grandland X offers a choice of tire sizes, including 215/65 R17, 225/55 R18, and 235/50 R19, paired with corresponding wheel rim sizes of 17, 18, or 19 inches, allowing for customization in terms of ride comfort and aesthetic appeal. The vehicle’s maximum permissible weight is 4409.25 lbs. (2000 kg), and it boasts a substantial towing capacity of 3306.93 lbs. (1500 kg) with brakes, further underscoring its utility.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Vauxhall Grandland X

The Vauxhall Grandland X, particularly the 1.5 Turbo D variant, carved out a distinct niche for itself in the highly competitive European compact SUV market during its production run from 2019 to 2021. Its legacy is deeply intertwined with Vauxhall’s strategy to expand its SUV lineup and capitalize on the booming demand for crossovers. As a sibling to the Opel Grandland X, it benefited from the engineering prowess of the PSA Group, sharing platforms and powertrains with successful models like the Peugeot 3008 and Citroën C5 Aircross. This strategic collaboration allowed Vauxhall to offer a modern, well-equipped, and competitively priced vehicle without the immense development costs of an entirely new platform.

In its primary markets, particularly the UK, the Grandland X was generally well-received for its practical interior, comfortable ride, and economical powertrains. The 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp) engine was a cornerstone of its appeal, offering a compelling blend of strong torque, respectable performance, and excellent fuel efficiency, which was a significant selling point for families and long-distance commuters facing high fuel prices and stringent emission regulations. Its Euro 6d-TEMP compliance demonstrated Vauxhall’s commitment to environmental responsibility, a crucial factor in the European automotive landscape.

The Grandland X competed directly with a multitude of established and popular compact SUVs. Key competitors included the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga (Escape in the US), Volkswagen Tiguan, Skoda Karoq, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and its platform-mates, the Peugeot 3008 and Citroën C5 Aircross. Against these rivals, the Grandland X typically stood out for its straightforward, functional design, generous cargo space, and a driving experience that prioritized comfort and ease of use over outright sportiness. Its reputation was built on reliability and practicality, making it a sensible choice for those seeking a dependable family vehicle.

Historically, the Grandland X marked Vauxhall’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer preferences, moving away from traditional sedans and hatchbacks towards higher-riding, more versatile SUVs. It successfully positioned Vauxhall as a relevant player in the crossover segment, appealing to a broad demographic looking for a spacious, safe, and economical vehicle. While not sold in the American market, its influence within Europe was considerable, contributing to the widespread adoption of diesel-powered compact SUVs before the broader industry shift towards electrification gained full momentum. The Vauxhall Grandland X 1.5 Turbo D (130 Hp) remains a testament to effective platform sharing and strategic market positioning, offering a practical and efficient solution for the everyday needs of European drivers.