VAUXHALL GRANDLAND ELECTRIC

Newcomer looks to ease the average family SUV driver into EV motoring

- JAMES ATTWOOD

There's plenty to like T about the Vauxhall Grandland Electric, there really is. In a crowded class, it's competitive on range, design, space and price and has little that should deter or put off buyers. Lots to like, then. There's just not much that you will love.

That won't be a barrier for the average person seeking an electric family SUV. This is a thoroughly sensible package from a familiar brand. It's the sort of thing that Vauxhall has done well lately. And, much as it seems like damning with faint praise, there's a lot to be said for quiet competence.

Since this is our first taste of the new Grandland in UK spec and on British roads, a quick recap: this is the second generation of Vauxhall's biggest SUV and the first electric one - and it's quite a departure from its predecessor. The switch to Stellantis's new STLA Medium platform has resulted in it growing considerably (making room for the Frontera below) and there's entirely new styling that looks pleasingly upmarket. That includes a big central lip on the bonnet, which you peer down from behind the wheel.