Vauxhall Grandland loses its X, gains night vision

A significantly updated Vauxhall Grandland X will go on sale later this year, with the British brand dropping the familiar X moniker as part of a big overhaul for the SUV.

The exterior styling has been transformed to include the front end ‘vizor’ first seen on the new Mokka, complete with adaptive LED headlights that won’t dazzle oncoming cars, Vauxhall claims.

Inside, Vauxhall’s Pure Panel has been ‘detoxed to the essentials’ to help keep the driver’s eyes on the road: it consists of a 12in digital cockpit to replace the old analogue set-up, as well as a central touchscreen measuring up to 10in wide.

The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging is available too. Vauxhall has sensibly resisted the temptation to digitise every single cabin function, so there are still physical dials for the climate control.

A smorgasbord of safety systems includes lane keep assistance, front collision warning, traffic sign recognition and drowsiness detection. The adaptive cruise control can match the speed of the vehicle ahead, and active lane positioning can keep the Grandland in the middle of its lane.

Night vision is another eye-catching feature: it can spot pedestrians and animals that stray into the road ahead up to 100 metres away.

Vauxhall is also at pains to stress the new comfort focus of the Grandland. The ergonomic front seats have been certified by a German company that promotes better back health and good posture. With heating and ventilation among the options, Vauxhall says the seats are ‘unique in the segment’ and ‘award-winning’. We must’ve missed the Sit Awards this year…

Prices will be announced later in 2021, as will the engine line-up. Petrol and diesel engines are confirmed, as is a plug-in hybrid powertrain, in keeping with Vauxhall’s promise to have a fully electrified range by 2024.

Convinced?