first it was Mokka X , the result of the restyling operated on the Mokka in 2016 that added not only the letter “X” to the name but also small aesthetic changes to the model. As early as 2017, Opel introduced the Crossland X , a natural replacement for the Meriva – a MPV for a compact SUV, what's new? – developed in conjunction with PSA. In the meantime, we got to know the Grandland X , Opel's new proposal for the C-segment SUV.
And what do these three models have in common? All of them are part of the new line of more versatile proposals of the German brand, inspired by the SUV universe. And it's especially with the Crossland X that Opel hopes to conquer a segment that has the Renault Captur as its owner and master in Portugal. We went to see the new Opel Crossland X.
A compact SUV for the city
At 4212 mm long, 1765 mm wide and 1605 mm high, the Opel Crossland X is slightly shorter, narrower and lower than the Mokka X, placing itself below it in the B segment. But that's not just what sets them apart. .
While the Mokka X takes on a more adventurous character and, if we can call it that, «all-terrain», the Crossland X is more suited to an urban use, and this is immediately noticeable in the exterior design.
Fruit of the alliance with Grupo PSA, the platform is the same as the Citroen C3, but increased.
Aesthetically, the Crossland X is a kind of Opel Adam in a big point: the two-tone bodywork, the C-pillar and the chrome lines that run along the roof were inspired by the city-dweller. But the inspiration for Adam stops there. Adam's rebellion was replaced by a more serious stance.
And because we're talking about an SUV (although a distant cousin of an MPV), it couldn't lack the added height to the ground and the protections of the plastic bodywork, which serve to… no. It's not for off-road. It is not to hit the sidewalks and not to allow other cars to scratch the paintwork in parking lots. You don't say "urban jungle" by chance.
On the inside, Opel has made an effort to increase the habitability rates, despite the compact dimensions, following the old maxim “small on the outside, big on the inside”. And the truth is, we can't complain about lack of space.
There are several storage spaces, and the folding rear seats (in a 60/40 ratio) allow you to increase the luggage capacity to 1255 liters (up to the roof), instead of the normal 410 liters. Elevated seats, typically SUV, facilitate entry and exit of the vehicle.
As for the design, it is an evolution of the philosophy that can be found in other models in the Opel range. Crossland X takes influences from the Astra, visible mainly in the center console and dashboard.
In terms of the technological package, this Innovation version is not complete with a navigation system – available as an option for 550 €. Furthermore, the infotainment system (4.0 IntelliLink) allows the integration of smartphones via Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and, as with the entire Opel range, there is no lack of the Opel OnStar roadside assistance system.
A minivan masquerading as an SUV?
Available with a range of engines between 81 and 130 hp, we had the opportunity to test the intermediate diesel version of the Crossland X: 1.6 Turbo D ECOTEC. As you'd expect, with 99 hp of power and 254 Nm of torque it's not a particularly powerful engine, but it fully meets expectations.
Although more comfortable on an urban circuit than on the open road, the 1.6 Turbo D Ecotec engine, here coupled to a five-speed gearbox, has a very linear behavior. And as a bonus it provides reduced consumption – we achieved values in the region of 5 liters/100 km without much difficulty.
In the dynamic chapter, it will certainly not be the most engaging and fun model to drive in the segment, nor does it invite you to take off-road rides. But it does. And complying means responding rigorously to input from the direction in evasive maneuvers. Comfort is in good shape.
The elevated driving position undoubtedly benefits front visibility, but on the other hand the slightly wider B-pillar than usual can be tricky for side visibility (blind spot). Nothing serious, though.
As for the driving assistance technology package, in this version the Crossland X is equipped with lane departure alert and the Opel Eye front camera, with traffic sign recognition.
Unlike the Mokka X, Opel's most "out-of-the-shell" model in this segment, the Crossland X doesn't hide its MPV past: it is, without a doubt, a compact SUV more designed for the family and the urban environment. .
That said, the Crossland X fulfills everything you'd expect from a car of these characteristics: space, low fuel consumption, comfort and a good level of equipment. Will it be enough to succeed in one of the fiercest segments? Only time will tell.