Hot on the heels of its Astra and Astra Sports Tourer GSe hot plug-in hybrids, Vauxhall has launched its Grandland GSe Plug-in Hybrid performance SUV with an even more potent powertrain.
While the Grandland GSe still uses the same 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, its battery pack (as yet undisclosed, but potentially the same 12.4kWh unit from the Astra GSe) now feeds a pair of electric motors, one on
each axle, to equip the Grandland with e-four-wheel drive. It means there’s more power, with the total output standing at 296bhp for a 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds. Top speed is 146mph, while the Grandland GSe can hit 84mph when in electric mode.
Vauxhall has not yet given a zero- emissions range for the car (if it does use the same battery as the Astra GSe, it’ll take just under two hours to top up using a 7kW charger), but it has published provisional efficiency data, with fuel economy of up to 217mpg and CO2 emissions from 29g/km.
The Grandland GSe also has a unique suspension set-up, with firmer springs than standard and Frequency-Selective Dampers from suspension manufacturer Koni. These allow for different damping characteristics depending on the road surface to deliver a balance between comfort and handling.
Vauxhall says the Grandland GSe “offers more precise and consistent responses while retaining superior stability under braking, in corners and at higher speed”.
Styling tweaks include similar GSe cues to the Astra, with plenty of bespoke GSe badging, plus 19-inch alloy wheels that are inspired by the Manta GSe concept. A black bonnet is available as an option, while inside, the hottest Grandland features Alcantara-trimmed sports seats.
The Grandland GSe will go on sale in the UK early next year, with first deliveries due to commence in spring. Prices for this new range-topping model haven’t been revealed, but could start from just under £45,000.
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