New Vauxhall hybrid is so grand it’s fit for a queen
in EVs with the knowledge that they also have a 1.6-litre petrol engine below them.
There are four modes in this hybrid – all-electric with zero emissions, hybrid, sport and all-wheel drive.
We had started our run in electric mode with a 23-mile range, which fell to nine just as we hit the motorway.
We changed to hybrid and, at the same time, we pressed the e-Save button. This stores whatever charge you have left for later – if, for example, you will be entering an ultra-low emission zone.
At the same time, if you put the automatic gearbox into ‘ B’ mode, it helps regenerate the charge. Imagine our surprise when we reached the ooff-road course and realised we had raisedr the electric charge back up to 27 miles. This was how we managed to completeco the drive in the forest with zero emissions. I do hope Her Maj will be pleased.
The Th hybrid mode works together with the electric motors to choose the most fuel- efficient method of usingusin the powertrains in the car.
Simon S Hucknall, of Vauxhall, had ha described the Grandland’s performance per in Sport when internal combustion com engine and electric motors work together as “ridiculously fast” – and it didn’t disappoint.
This car has one petrol engine and two electric motors – front and rear axle – which, combined, deliver 300PS.
The most eff icient way to charge this car, says Vauxhall, is to keep it on charge plugged in overnight at home and during the day at work. That way, you will always have maximum electric power, which is probably enough for the daily commute and school run and give you up to an amazing 225mpg. Longer journeys will use the hybrid version.
There are several different trim levels in this car and the model we drove was the top-of-the-range Ultimate Nav AWD but it also comes as a front-wheel drive and with a lower trim level.
With the MyVauxhall app, you can schedule the car to be charged at the cheapest time overnight and get it in ready-to-go condition the next day so that you set off already warmed up to save charge.
And, as if that wasn’t enough, the firm is also operating a battery health policy with check-ups so should you decide to sell on, the battery will come with a certificate. Not as good as a Buckingham Palace gong but very reassuring.