The Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid delivers a well-balanced combination of petrol power and electric efficiency, engineered for drivers who want lower emissions without sacrificing everyday usability. It runs on a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, integrated with a high-torque electric motor, together producing 195 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid powertrain is paired with a smooth 8-speed electrified automatic transmission that enables a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 7.4 seconds. Its top speed reaches 136.7 mph, placing it squarely within competitive hybrid SUV territory.
Drivers benefit from three selectable driving modes—Hybrid, Electric, and Sport—to match performance to the road and mood. In Electric mode, the car prioritizes battery usage, offering a quiet, emission-free ride ideal for city streets and urban zones with low-emission restrictions. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and shifts power delivery to maximize output from both engine and motor. Hybrid mode automatically balances both systems to optimize energy use.
Battery, Charging, and Electric Range
The 13.2 kWh lithium-ion battery enables an electric-only range of up to 30 miles under WLTP testing conditions. That covers the average daily round trip for many European drivers, meaning short commutes and errands can be completed without burning any petrol.
Charging is simple. Using a standard domestic 230V socket, a full charge takes around 7 hours. For faster charging, owners can install a 7.4 kW wallbox, which reduces charging time to under 2 hours. The Grandland supports Type 2 AC charging, offering compatibility with public charging infrastructure throughout Europe and North America.
In urban environments, this hybrid SUV offers significant fuel savings and reduced tailpipe emissions. When driven in electric mode alone, CO₂ emissions drop to zero during operation. In hybrid mode, the vehicle intelligently manages battery use to maintain high efficiency and extend total driving range.
Driving Experience and Handling
The Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid features MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam setup in the rear, tuned for both stability and comfort. The vehicle's lower center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement beneath the floor, enhances cornering confidence and reduces body roll.
Steering is light and accurate, perfect for city navigation and tight parking. On the highway, it firms up for added control. Brake regeneration is active by default, converting kinetic energy into battery charge while slowing down. This system improves efficiency without compromising braking performance.
The electric motor handles low-speed driving seamlessly, offering near-silent operation in residential areas or traffic queues. Once the petrol engine kicks in, transitions are smooth, and cabin noise remains impressively low, thanks to enhanced soundproofing and wind tunnel-tested aerodynamics.
Interior Design, Comfort, and Infotainment
Inside the cabin, the Grandland Plug-in Hybrid reflects Opel’s latest design language, with a focus on clarity, ergonomics, and comfort. The driver-centric cockpit features the Pure Panel, a seamless horizontal display that merges a 10-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10-inch central touchscreen. This interface reduces visual clutter while putting key functions within easy reach.
The Grandland offers AGR-certified ergonomic seats, designed to reduce fatigue on long trips. These front seats feature multi-way adjustability, lumbar support, and optional heating and ventilation functions. Rear passengers also benefit from generous headroom and legroom, with a flat floor improving foot space.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, alongside USB-C ports for fast device charging. A premium Harman Kardon audio system is available on higher trims, delivering immersive sound across the cabin. Dual-zone climate control ensures consistent cabin temperature, and rear-seat vents maintain comfort for back passengers.
Air Quality and Intelli-Air System
For those with sensitivity to allergens, Opel introduces the Intelli-Air system. This high-efficiency air filter and monitoring system continuously checks and adjusts the air quality inside the vehicle. It can filter out dust, pollen, fine particles, and pollutants, displaying real-time air purity data on the infotainment screen.
Especially useful in urban or industrial zones, Intelli-Air improves cabin air for all passengers, particularly children, elderly individuals, and allergy sufferers. Combined with a sealed HVAC ducting system, this feature enhances health and comfort during long journeys or high-traffic scenarios.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The new Grandland Plug-in Hybrid integrates a wide suite of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), designed to support the driver and reduce the risk of accidents. Key safety technologies include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning
- Driver Attention Alert for fatigue monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality
- 360-degree camera and rear cross-traffic alert
These features come standard or are available as options depending on trim level. Opel’s Matrix LED Pixel headlights—available on select models—dynamically adjust to oncoming traffic and road conditions, providing maximum illumination without dazzling other drivers.
Opel Grandland vs. Other Plug-in Hybrid SUVs
To evaluate where the Grandland Plug-in Hybrid stands, here’s a detailed comparison with key competitors in the compact PHEV SUV segment:
| Feature | Opel Grandland PHEV | Ford Kuga PHEV | Toyota RAV4 PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combined Power Output (hp) | 195 | 225 | 302 |
| 0–60 mph Acceleration (s) | 7.4 | 9.2 | 5.8 |
| Electric-Only Range (miles) | 30 | 35 | 42 |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 13.2 | 14.4 | 18.1 |
| Cargo Volume (cu ft) | 19.4 – 58.1 | 19.2 – 57.4 | 33.5 – 63.2 |
| Starting Price (USD) | $45,000 | $44,000 | $49,000 |
The Opel Grandland PHEV undercuts the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid in price while offering a better acceleration time than the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid. While it trails in electric-only range, it provides a strong middle ground for drivers who value affordability, comfort, and driving ease.
