Heavy facelift for Vauxhall’s Grandland SUV

Vauxhall has revealed the updated Grandland, which has followed the trend set by its sister models and dropped the ‘X’ from its name. Vauxhall also says the new model has been “heavily revised”, with updated styling, extra equipment and added on-board comfort.

Externally, the new Grandland has been given the ‘vizor’ grille from the updated Mokka and Crossland models, while new LED headlights have also been fitted. There have been changes to the bumpers and skirts, too, along with new underbody skid plates. But the biggest changes can be found inside, where the Grandland is now available with a “fully digital cockpit” incorporating two widescreen displays and the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration systems.

Those screens join other new technology features, including a night vision camera and Intellilux LED Pixel lights. Those 84-unit lights can adapt to the car’s surroundings, with the goal of providing maximum illumination, but at the same time preventing other drivers from being dazzled.

Also included in the new Grandland is a Highway Integration Assist system for cars with automatic gearboxes. In essence, the system combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance technology to keep the car in its lane and a safe distance from the car in front. It isn’t quite the same as autonomous driving, but it’s designed to reduce the driver’s workload and act as a safety net on long journeys.

As before, the Grandland will be offered in plug-in hybrid form, although petrol and diesel engines are likely to make up the majority of the line-up. The range is set to go on sale later this year, with first deliveries in the autumn. Prices are yet to be announced by Vauxhall, but the Grandland is expected to cost around £1,500 more than the existing model, which starts from £25,815 in diesel guise and £32,390 for the cheapest plug-in hybrid version.

“We’re confident that the new Grandland will appeal to new and existing customers alike with its bold design, benchmark technologies and high-tech interior,” said Vauxhall’s managing director, Paul Willcox.