Opel, a German automaker under the umbrella of Stellantis, has been seen testing a prototype for the upcoming redesigned Grandland compact crossover. The prototype spotted was for an electric version of the new Grandland, signaling the brand’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle offerings. However, it is worth noting that other powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid setup, may also be offered as alternative options for consumers.
The new Grandland is being developed on the STLA Medium EV platform, which is specifically designed for compact and mid-size cars. Although it will not be available for sale in the U.S., this new model may provide valuable insights for future U.S.-bound vehicles based on the STLA Medium platform. Vehicles built on this platform are equipped with front- or all-wheel-drive powertrains, with the latter being generated by having an electric motor at each axle.
The platform, which made its debut earlier this year in the Peugeot 3008 compact crossover, has been designed to accommodate batteries with a usable capacity of up to 98 kWh, offering power outputs of up to 382 horsepower. While the exact power output of the Grandland is not yet confirmed, it is expected that at least one option will match or exceed the 300 horsepower of the outgoing Grandland plug-in hybrid variant.
The Grandland is expected to enter the market in the second half of 2024 in markets where Opel operates, indicating a potential debut in the early part of the following year.
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In addition to the Grandland, Opel has also been conducting tests on a prototype for a redesigned version of the Crossland subcompact crossover. Similar to the Grandland, the new Crossland is expected to debut as an electric vehicle, with the possibility of alternative powertrains being offered at a later point.
When it comes to styling, both crossovers are likely to follow the design cues of the Opel Mokka subcompact crossover that was launched in 2020. Clean surfaces and Opel’s distinctive visor grille are expected to be central design elements of both the Grandland and the Crossland.
Opel, which operates as Vauxhall in the U.K., has set a goal to become a fully electric brand in its primary market of Europe by 2028. Given its affiliation with Stellantis, Opel has access to a range of dedicated EV platforms, catering to everything from subcompact cars to full-size trucks and vans. Opel has confirmed plans for a future dedicated EV, a sporty crossover known as the Manta E, which is set to debut around the middle of the decade.
In summary, the sighting of the prototype for the electric version of the Grandland compact crossover signals Opel’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup. With the brand’s goal to become fully electric in Europe by 2028, and access to dedicated EV platforms within the Stellantis group, Opel is poised to offer a diverse range of electric vehicles, catering to different market segments and consumer preferences.
