Test drive Peugeot 3008 vs Opel Grandland X: the best Opel?

Duel of two models on a common technological platform - with an unexpected ending

From a bird's eye view, the similarities between Grandland X and 3008 are striking. This is not surprising, because the two models share the same technology platform, are equipped with the same three-cylinder turbo engines, and rolled off the assembly line at the French Sochaux plant together.

A light summer breeze blows over the mountain range. Two paragliders fold their wings and spread out their gear as the midday sun makes its way to the southwest. In the center of this eye-pleasing photograph, the bodies of the Peugeot 3008 shine in white and navy blue. Opel Grandland X. It didn't rain today, which is a good thing, because one of the many similarities between these two platform siblings is the lack of a dual transmission system - something that is not good to walk through wet alpine pastures without. Thanks to their three-cylinder engines and manual transmissions, the two competitors are better suited for the challenges of the urban jungle than for serious off-road adventures, but this is not uncommon - in this market segment, the 4×4 formula has been constantly promoted as the second one. violin.

Small turbo engines with a capacity of 130 hp

Three-cylinder engine in an SUV model weighing almost one and a half tons? It turns out that this is not a problem with the support of the forced charging system and surprisingly high torque. In both models, one cannot talk about a lack of power or traction - 130 hp. and the maximum torque of 230 Nm at 1750 rpm is the basis for quite decent dynamic performance. A little over 11 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of almost 190 km/h are quite adequate achievements for the unit, which in both the Grandland X and the 3008 serves as the base and at the same time the only gasoline engine. In the range. A six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option rather than the base versions of both models.

The participants in the comparison use quite a wealth of equipment included in the innovation level at Grandland X and Allure at Peugeot. In Germany, this version of the Opel model is slightly (€ 300) more expensive than the Peugeot, but the Grandland X Innovation has slightly richer equipment, including warning systems for the risk of collision in the vehicle in front and for danger. in the blind spots of the driver's field of vision, dual-zone air conditioning and keyless entry and start system.

On the other hand, the 3008 is very well equipped and also warns the driver of the danger of a collision or inadvertent departure from the lane. The interior does not look simpler - on the contrary. Pleasant style, precise workmanship and quality materials make a very good impression.

Ergonomics has definitely not been a priority for French designers, however. The function control system, with its large central touchscreen and very few physical buttons, undoubtedly looks clean and straightforward, but when you have to use the on-screen menus even for small things like body temperature settings, things start to get a little annoying. This is demonstrated by the Grandland X, whose concept of function control and infotainment also uses the PSA platform, but with just a few additional buttons (like the climate control) the driver is significantly relaxed. This convenience also has to do with safety, so the Opel model has a slight advantage in the body rating.

Much to our surprise, the German model also offers slightly more passenger and luggage space than its French tech counterpart. The cabin height, which is five centimeters higher in this class, is essential, so the more spacious cabin is also a virtue of the Grandland X. With it, and above all in the rear seats, it seems a little more comfortable. An exceptionally good impression on both cars, by the way, makes the quality of the front seats. AGR seats are available as rather expensive accessories from both brands (at 3008, the surcharge is significantly higher, but the seats also include a massage function), but they guarantee impeccable comfort and body support during dynamic cornering.

Noisy undercarriage

However, the impressive driving comfort is definitely not among the strong points of the Franco-German duo, and this is unlikely to come as a big surprise to those familiar with the technology platform labeled EMP2. Both compact SUVs jump a little awkwardly over bumps, but overall Opel does a better job with the idea, body wobble is less noticeable and comfort is significantly better.

But the differences are not so great, and in both models, the rear axle without a drop of pity transmits the shocks of movement to the passengers on uneven surfaces. Not surprisingly, unlike the other DS7 Crossback cousin and its multi-link rear suspension, compact SUVs from Opel and Peugeot have to deal with a much simpler torsion bar at the rear. With more dynamic driving, the suspension behavior of both rivals is more responsive, but the short lateral joints still interfere with the calmness of their work. Here, too, the 3008 is a little noisier, and the sounds of the chassis seem to penetrate the cabin more easily.

This is even more impressive due to the fact that the three-cylinder petrol unit in both models is very discreet in terms of noise and vibration. Apart from the growl under high load in the mid-range, which has 130 hp. the turbo engine is very quiet and calm.

The same thing that we hinted at at the beginning can be said about the dynamics of the road. The only thing worth noting is the slow acceleration from about 80 km / h in the highest gear, which in dynamic driving in country conditions requires more frequent switching - not very fun for both models. The lever travel is quite long, and its accuracy is definitely something to be desired. In addition, the excessively massive metal ball on the gear lever in the Peugeot model feels rather strange in the hand - of course, a matter of taste, but the feeling remains strange even after a long drive.

There is no clear answer to the question of whether downsizing has a positive effect on fuel consumption. With a markedly economical driving style, three-cylinder engines are quite economical, and it is quite possible to achieve consumption figures if there is a six in front of the decimal point. However, the average cost of the test is higher simply because physics cannot be fooled - it takes a certain amount of energy to keep a mass of 1,4 tons in motion. The slightly lighter Opel model has a slightly lower rate, but overall the average for both rivals is 7,5L/100km, which is definitely not something fatal or phenomenal.

Far more worrisome are some of the wayward features of the Peugeot, such as the very small steering wheel and controls above it. This decision not only impairs the visibility of the already not very legible readings, but also does not improve the 3008's driving experience.

Excellent brakes on both models

Due to the tight steering angles, the car reacts rather nervously when entering corners, a behavior it could describe as an expression of dynamics. But this feeling is too short-lived, because the feedback and precision in the steering wheel is not enough, and the chassis settings do not allow for dynamic behavior on the road. The fact that a much more harmonious operation can achieve a much more harmonious operation is clearly demonstrated by the Grandland X. The operation of the steering system is much more predictable and generous in terms of driver feedback, resulting in a car that feels more responsive when cornering and more stable when following a given trajectory. This is also evident when driving in a straight line, where the Opel model holds the direction calmly and confidently, while the 3008 requires much more frequent adjustment of the steering wheel.

Incidentally, the early intervention of electronic stability systems put an end to the excessive sporting ambitions of both models in a timely and safe manner. From this point of view, compact SUVs perform at the same high level and their brakes work flawlessly.

The gliders fold and fold, and the storm clouds gradually gather on the western horizon. It's time to leave the alpine pasture.

CONCLUSION

1. VAUXHALL

Grandland X wins by a surprisingly large margin. Its strengths are slightly wider interior space, higher levels of comfort and better road dynamics.

2.PEUGEOT

The odd steering wheel, steering system performance, and noisy suspension contribute greatly to the 3008's shortcomings. The French talk about better interior design and good safety equipment.

Text: Heinrich Lingner

Photo: Hans-Dieter Zeifert