The Opel Crossland X 1.2 (81 hp) was a subcompact SUV produced from June 2017 to June 2018, representing an entry-level offering within the Crossland X range. Positioned as an affordable and practical option, it targeted buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for urban driving and small families. The Crossland X itself was a collaborative effort between Opel (Vauxhall in the UK) and PSA Peugeot Citroën, built on the PF1 platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform. This model aimed to compete with popular vehicles like the Renault Captur and Nissan Juke in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Crossland |
| Generation | Crossland X |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (81 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4-6.5 l/100 km (36.8 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 81 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 2750 rpm (87.03 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B12XE |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1088 kg (2398.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 602 kg (1327.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1255 l (44.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4212 mm (165.83 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Height | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2604 mm (102.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Crossland X 1.2 (81 hp) was powered by the B12XE engine, a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel/PSA’s “Small Engine Family” (SEF), known for its compact design and efficiency. The B12XE utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 11:1 contributes to its efficiency, but also requires higher octane fuel in some markets. The engine’s 81 horsepower and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque were delivered at 5750 rpm and 2750 rpm respectively. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this variant. The transmission was chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, aligning with the entry-level positioning of the trim.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2-liter engine in the Crossland X provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 13.3 seconds, and the top speed was around 105.63 mph. The five-speed manual transmission offered a reasonable spread of gears, but the engine felt strained when accelerating hard or climbing hills. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter diesel or 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline options available in the Crossland X lineup, the 81 hp version felt noticeably slower. However, its lighter weight and efficient engine contributed to better fuel economy, making it a suitable choice for primarily urban driving. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance, resulting in a comfortable but uninspiring driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 (81 hp) Crossland X typically came with a basic level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities included air conditioning, power front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and steel wheels with wheel covers. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but somewhat basic design. The trim level was generally considered the entry point to the Crossland X range, offering a cost-effective way to access the model’s practicality and space.
Chassis & Braking
The Crossland X featured a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The torsion beam setup was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and space-saving design. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, and ABS was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride on most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the handling was not particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Crossland X 1.2 (81 hp) received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its practicality, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. However, the engine’s lack of power was a common criticism, particularly when compared to rivals offering turbocharged engines or diesel options. Fuel economy was generally considered good, and the vehicle’s reliability was reported to be average. Compared to the higher-spec Crossland X models, the 1.2-liter version offered a more affordable entry point but sacrificed performance and refinement. The 1.6-liter diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, while the 1.2-liter turbo provided a noticeable boost in power.
Legacy
The Opel Crossland X 1.2 (81 hp) remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. The B12XE engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the timing chain. The five-speed manual transmission is also known to be durable. The Crossland X, as a whole, proved to be a popular model for Opel, offering a practical and affordable option in the competitive subcompact SUV segment. While the 81 hp version may not be the most exciting to drive, its fuel efficiency and low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
