What's the news?
Opel has given us our first glimpse of its new Crossland X model, which will be revealed in full later this week. The new model is due to replace the Opel Meriva as the brand's new compact MPV. With the ever-increasing demand for crossovers and SUVs, Opel has decided to give the new model a more SUV-inspired look and is expected to resemble the recently introduced Mokka X.
Opel is adding the 'X' designation to its new models that will carry more SUV-based styling to reinforce the rugged look. We expect that the new crossover styling of the Crossland X will bring with it a more spacious cabin, while those rear-hinged doors that feature on the Meriva aren't likely to appear on the new model.
According to Opel, the new Crossland X will appeal to "families who demand agility and convenience in urban driving, but with enough comfort and performance to cover long distances at the drop of a hat". The Crossland X will be built in partnership with Peugeot and Citroen, and will use PSA platforms, not Opel-specific ones.
Opel CEO, Karl-Thomas Neumann, has said that these new models will be referred to as CUV, rather than SUV, vehicles. The new category designation fits with the fact that these new models will be essentially MPVs with SUV styling.
Anything else?
The Opel Crossland X will be the second of seven planned model introductions this year. We've already seen the unveiling of the all-new Opel Insignia Grand Sport, which replaces the popular Insignia saloon.