Opel unveils its most powerful model - the Grandland Electric AWD

Opel has quietly introduced its most powerful vehicle to date, and it is not the performance-badged model one might expect. The new flagship is the Opel Grandland Electric AWD, a family-sized SUV that boasts a surprising 321 horsepower from a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system. This new entry into the crowded field of electric cars shakes up the German brand's lineup, offering more punch than any other vehicle in its portfolio, including its sport-focused GSe models.

At the heart of the new Grandland is a familiar piece of Stellantis hardware (Peugeot e-3008), now tuned to its full potential for Opel. The 210-horsepower electric motor drives the front wheels, while a second 111-horsepower motor powers the rear axle. Together, they deliver a combined output of 321 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. This translates to brisk acceleration from a standstill to 62 mph in just 6.1 seconds.

To manage the power, drivers can select from Eco, Normal, Sport, and a dedicated AWD mode, which adjusts the powertrain response and steering feel. Opel engineers have given the Grandland Electric AWD a unique chassis configuration to ensure the handling matches the straight-line speed. The vehicle comes standard with frequency selective damping that adjusts to the road surface and driving style. This, combined with specific springs, anti-roll bars, steering, and stability control, should deliver a ride that is both comfortable during daily commutes and controlled when the road gets twisty.

For any electric car, range and charging are critical. The Grandland Electric AWD is equipped with a 73 kWh battery pack nestled in its floor. According to the WLTP testing cycle used in Europe, this battery provides a range of up to 311 miles on a single charge, which puts the Grandland in a competitive position among other electric cars and EVs in its class.

Visually, the changes distinguishing the top-tier Grandland are subtle yet purposeful. The designers have fitted sportier front and rear bumper inserts, which Opel claims are optimized for better aerodynamics, highlighted with carbon-style details. The SUV rides on new, two-tone 20-inch alloy wheels that fill the wheel arches nicely. These exterior tweaks apparently help the Grandland achieve a drag coefficient of 0.278 Cd, the best in the model range, contributing to its overall efficiency.

Perhaps the most curious aspect of this new model is the badge it doesn't wear. Opel has chosen not to designate its most powerful vehicle with the GSe (Grand Sport Electric) emblem. This is particularly puzzling given that the outgoing Grandland GSe, a less powerful plug-in hybrid with 296 horsepower, proudly wore the badge. The new all-electric AWD model clearly has the performance credentials, and Opel's decision to forgo the sporty branding remains a mystery.

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