The new Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid underwent a real-world range test led by the model’s chief engineer, Dirk Kaminski, and the Opel team. Unlike standard WLTP tests, the vehicle was evaluated under real driving conditions, equipped with 19-inch winter tires instead of low-rolling-resistance summer tires, and tested with the fully loaded GS package. Despite these additional factors, the Grandland Plug-in Hybrid impressively covered a remarkable distance of 1,115 kilometers. More than one-third of this journey—precisely 380 kilometers—was completed using only electric power, resulting in zero emissions. The test route spanned from the Rhine-Main region near Rüsselsheim and Frankfurt to the Rhine-Neckar area, replicating typical daily commuting conditions. With a total system output of 143 kW (192 HP) and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, the Grandland Plug-in Hybrid exceeded expectations, proving its efficiency on a single tank of fuel and a full battery charge.
A Perfect Balance of Performance and Efficiency
The new Opel Grandland stands out with its bold and streamlined design, cutting-edge technology, practical features, and spacious interior. As the winner of the prestigious “Golden Steering Wheel” award in 2024, the model is available in fully electric, 48V hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. Among these, the intelligent plug-in hybrid system was put to the test by Opel’s engineering team, delivering impressive results that highlight its suitability for fleet users and long-distance drivers alike.
Sharing his thoughts on the test, Dirk Kaminski remarked, “Official WLTP figures are clear: our new Grandland Plug-in Hybrid offers a total driving range of up to 897 kilometers, including up to 87 kilometers of purely electric driving. But we asked ourselves, ‘What can this vehicle truly achieve in real-world conditions?’ We were confident that our new flagship SUV could surpass the 1,000-kilometer mark on a full tank and full charge. After all, the Grandland is engineered in Germany and produced in our state-of-the-art Eisenach facility. So, we decided to push it beyond the standardized test cycles and see what it’s really capable of.”
Challenging Conditions, Outstanding Results
The official WLTP figures for the Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid were determined at approximately 23°C. However, the real-world test took place on a windy and rainy January morning at 11°C, making conditions significantly tougher. The vehicle was fully loaded, featuring 19-inch winter tires instead of the typical low-resistance summer tires. With a full fuel tank and a fully charged 17.9 kWh battery, the journey began.
Covering typical commuting routes between Rüsselsheim, Frankfurt, and the Rhine-Neckar region, the test encompassed a wide variety of driving conditions, including highway cruising, stop-and-go traffic, heavy congestion, and urban driving with frequent traffic lights. This approach closely mirrored the everyday experiences of company car users and long-distance commuters.
With an average speed of 80 km/h, the SUV demonstrated exceptional efficiency, achieving a combined fuel consumption of just 4.6 liters per 100 kilometers. The total journey of 1,115 kilometers was completed in four stages, including necessary rest breaks in accordance with legal driving time regulations. Importantly, over one-third of the total distance—exactly 380 kilometers—was covered purely on electric power, ensuring zero emissions during this portion of the trip.
After the test, Dirk Kaminski reflected on the results: “For the Grandland to achieve such exceptional figures under these conditions—especially considering that temperatures dropped as low as 4°C towards the end of the test—proves that we have created a groundbreaking vehicle that is perfectly suited for everyday use. The high-efficiency petrol engine and electric motor worked in seamless harmony. Additionally, every time the driver slows down, the system automatically switches to electric mode. This regenerative braking system allows the vehicle to recover energy and use it for emission-free driving, particularly at lower and medium speeds over extended distances.”
Opel’s Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
The new Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid is designed for both urban electric driving and long-distance journeys, making it an ideal choice for fleet users and private drivers who prioritize resource efficiency and want to eliminate range anxiety. The premium SUV also incorporates sustainable materials and eliminates chrome details, aligning with Opel‘s commitment to “Eco-Friendly Innovation” and “Sustainability.” These values were strongly reflected in the test results, further proving the model’s efficiency.
Beyond its remarkable range, the new Grandland is packed with features that enhance comfort and practicality for both daily commutes and long road trips. Ergonomic seats certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR) ensure superior comfort, while patented Intelli-Seat technology—designed with sustainable fabrics—comes standard on all front seats. Drivers also benefit from advanced lighting and display technologies, including Intelli-Lux HD LED® Pixel headlights, an Intelli-HUD head-up display, and an illuminated, semi-transparent Pixel Box.
One final question remains: How far can the new Grandland Plug-in Hybrid travel under optimal conditions, such as during the early summer months? Kaminski confidently states, “Based on the 1,115 kilometers we’ve already achieved, we strongly believe that an even greater range is possible under ideal circumstances.”
