Recently purchased by the Peugeot-Citroen Group (PSA) from General Motors, German automaker Opel unveiled the new Grandland X crossover at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. Bu,t while adding a third SUV to the lineup is big news for Opel, the Grandland X isn't exactly breaking news material, as the vehicle was previewed back in April. However, there's big news in the fact that this SUV will get a hybrid drivetrain. And the important thing here is that the Grandland X will be the company's very first plug-in hybrid vehicle. Now that's something to get excited about.

As a refresher, the Grandland X joins Opel's still somewhat limited crossover lineup, which only includes the Crossland X and the popular Mokka X. Nearly eight inches longer than the Crossland X, the Grandland X is built around PSA's EMP2 platform, shared with vehicles like the Citroen C5 Aircross, Peugeot 3008, 4008, and 5008. Actually, the Grandland X shares most of its underpinnings with the Peugeot 3008, which was updated from a minivan-like vehicle into a full-fledged crossover in 2016. The only thing we don't know yet is when the hybrid Grandland X will hit the market.

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Familiar Design with Rugged and Sporty Touches

The Grandland X's looks are rather familiar, sporting much of the Opel's current design language. Although this SUV isn't coming to the U.S., it wouldn't look strange on American roads since many other Opels have crossed the pond with Buick badges. The interior is simple but modern. The layout is based on the latest Astra hatchback and comes with a nice, premium feel. The large infotainment screen is surrounded by A/C vents and a few controls, while the center console is uncluttered, giving a sense of roominess.

There's plenty of tech to talk about, including a large portfolio of assistance systems. Highlights include Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking and pedestrian detection, Driver Drowsiness Alert, Advanced Park Assist, and the 360° Camera. The optional Adaptive Cruise Control function maintains the speed and selected distance to the vehicle ahead and brakes to a full stop or accelerates when needed.

Small-Displacement Engines

Speaking of acceleration, the Grandland X will be launched with two engines. First up is a turbocharged, 1.2-liter four-cylinder that cranks out 130 horsepower and 230 Nm (170 pound-feet) of torque. The second unit is a 1.6-liter turbodiesel that delivers 120 horses and 300 Nm (221 pound-feet) of twist. Consumption is rated at up to 6.4 and four liters per 100 km, respectively.

Opel said that the drivetrain lineup will expand after launch, confirming that the crossover will get a more powerful diesel, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

“Our new Grandland X as plug-in hybrid is the next big example of the opportunities that await us as a member of the PSA group,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller at the press conference. “We will follow this path closely.”

There's no information as to what configuration will Opel drop in the SUV, but it's safe to assume it will be a gasoline-electric combo. Either way, the Grandland X will become the first production Opel to use a hybrid drivetrain.

References

Peugeot 3008

Read our full review on the Peugeot 3008