The Opel Grandland, particularly the facelifted version introduced in July 2021, represents Opel’s entry into the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment. This variant, equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system and an 8-speed automatic transmission, was produced through September 2024. It occupies a mid-to-upper position within the Grandland lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and technology. The Grandland itself is based on the EMP2 platform, shared with other Stellantis vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and Citroën C5 Aircross.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Grandland |
| Generation | Grandland (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i Turbo (224 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2021 |
| End of production | September, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.3-1.8 l/100 km (180.9 – 130.7 US mpg, 217.3 – 156.9 UK mpg, 76.9 – 55.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 29-41 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 1.5-1.9 l/100 km (156.8 – 123.8 US mpg, 188.3 – 148.7 UK mpg, 66.7 – 52.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 34-43 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 13.2 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 53-64 km (32.93 – 39.77 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 56-66 km (34.8 – 41.01 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 15-17.5 kWh/100 km (24.14 – 28.16 kWh/100 mi, 140 – 120 MPGe, 6.7 – 5.7 km/kWh, 4.1 – 3.6 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 110 Hp @ 2500 rpm (320 Nm @ 500-2500 rpm / 236.02 lb.-ft. @ 500-2500 rpm) |
| System power | 224 Hp |
| System torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 6000 rpm (300 Nm @ 3000 rpm / 221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F16XHR |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1732 kg (3818.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2310 kg (5092.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 578 kg (1274.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1528 l (53.96 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4477 mm (176.26 in.) |
| Width | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2098 mm (82.6 in.) |
| Height | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1579-1595 mm (62.17 – 62.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587-1610 mm (62.48 – 63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 933 mm (36.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.67 m (35.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic 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 | 225/55 R18; 205/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Grandland (facelift 2021) 1.6i Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic represents a significant step in Opel’s electrification strategy. Introduced in July 2021, this variant builds upon the original Grandland launched in 2017, offering a compelling combination of petrol engine power and electric drive. Positioned as a mid-range to premium offering within the Grandland lineup, it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking lower running costs and reduced emissions without sacrificing practicality or driving comfort. The facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and this crucial plug-in hybrid powertrain option. It’s a key model for Opel, competing directly with popular SUVs like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage in the European market.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Grandland variant lies a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, designated the F16XHR. This engine produces 181 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. It’s coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a 13.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing an electric-only range of 53-64 km (32.93 – 39.77 miles) under WLTP testing. The electric motor, located between the engine and transmission, contributes an additional 110 horsepower and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 224 horsepower and 360 Nm (265.52 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. The 8-speed automatic transmission is a modern unit designed for smooth shifting and efficient power delivery, crucial for maximizing the benefits of the hybrid system. The powertrain offers various driving modes, including electric, hybrid, and sport, allowing the driver to tailor the vehicle’s behavior to their preferences and driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Grandland 1.6i Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle offers near-silent operation and brisk acceleration, particularly in urban environments. The electric motor provides instant torque, making it responsive around town. When the battery is depleted or when more power is demanded, the petrol engine seamlessly kicks in, providing a smooth transition. The 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to this smoothness, offering well-spaced gear ratios. Compared to lower-powered Grandland variants, this plug-in hybrid offers significantly more performance. While not a sports SUV, it provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling, but the suspension is well-tuned to provide a comfortable ride without excessive body roll. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grandland 1.6i Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its mid-to-upper position in the lineup. Standard features often included a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or leather, depending on the specific trim level. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring and parking assist. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandland utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The suspension is tuned to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack, ensuring stable and predictable handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Grandland 1.6i Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. Its ability to travel significant distances on electric power was a major selling point, particularly for drivers with short commutes. Compared to the petrol-only Grandland variants, the plug-in hybrid offered lower running costs and reduced emissions. However, the higher purchase price was a drawback for some buyers. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the Grandland offered a competitive range and performance, but some rivals offered more advanced technology or a more premium interior. Fuel economy figures of 1.3-1.8 l/100km (180.9-130.7 US mpg) were achievable in real-world driving, depending on driving style and charging habits.
Legacy
The Grandland 1.6i Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic represents an important step in Opel’s transition to electrification. The powertrain, while not without its complexities, has proven to be relatively reliable in real-world use. The long-term durability of the battery pack remains a key consideration for potential used car buyers. As of late 2024, these models are becoming increasingly common in the used car market, offering a more affordable entry point into plug-in hybrid ownership. The Grandland’s success has paved the way for Opel to expand its range of electrified vehicles, solidifying its commitment to a more sustainable future.
