Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels
About the Vauxhall Crossland
AI-generatedThe Vauxhall Crossland is a small SUV that replaced the Meriva in 2017, sharing its platform with the Peugeot 2008 and Citroën C3 Aircross as part of the PSA Group collaboration. Originally called the Crossland X until 2019 when Vauxhall dropped the 'X' suffix, it offers practicality with an elevated driving position, generous rear legroom, and a well-sized boot for its class. The Crossland is aimed squarely at buyers seeking a compact, easy-to-drive family car with SUV styling at an affordable price point. Available with a range of petrol and diesel engines from 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrols to 1.5-litre diesels, the Crossland prioritises comfort and economy over driving excitement. Trim levels include SE, Griffin, SRi Nav, Elite Nav, and Ultimate, with later models benefiting from updated infotainment systems and safety equipment. While it may not be the most engaging car to drive, it serves as a sensible, cost-effective choice for urban and suburban families who value space, visibility, and running costs over sporty handling.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (2017-2024)
2017-2024
- PureTech 1.2 petrol engines can suffer from wet timing belt issues leading to premature wear and potential engine failure
- AdBlue system faults on diesel models, particularly sensors and injectors causing warning lights
- Infotainment system freezing or becoming unresponsive, requiring software updates
- Electric parking brake failures, especially on earlier models
- Rear parking sensors occasionally giving false readings or failing completely
- Clutch wear on manual models, particularly with the 110hp petrol engine
- Air conditioning compressor failures, more common on 2017-2019 models
- Dashboard rattles and interior trim squeaks developing over time
Photo by Julian Fernandez on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,200-£1,600
Insurance Group
10-16
Average Service
£250-£350
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£15,000 - £19,000
£11,000 - £15,000
£8,500 - £12,000
N/A - N/A
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent rear legroom and flexible seating arrangement with sliding rear bench
- Good visibility thanks to raised driving position and large windows
- Economical engines with low running costs, especially diesel versions
- Competitive pricing compared to many rivals
- Easy to drive with light controls ideal for urban use
- Generous standard equipment levels on higher trims
- Comfortable ride quality over most road surfaces
Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2021 - Benefits from facelift with improved infotainment, updated safety tech including lane keep assist, and resolution of many early production issues while still being relatively affordable on the used market
- 2020 - Final year before facelift with most bugs ironed out, good equipment levels, and more attractive pricing than newer models while avoiding earliest reliability concerns
Worst Years
- 2017 - Launch year with early production issues, higher incidence of infotainment problems, electric parking brake failures, and initial PureTech engine timing belt concerns
- 2018 - Still experiencing early teething problems with PureTech engines and electrical systems, with fewer updates than later models and lower specification on base trims
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check service history for timing belt replacements on 1.2 PureTech models
- Listen for unusual ticking or rattling noises from the engine bay
- Ensure no warning lights on dashboard, particularly engine management light
- Check for oil leaks around engine and timing belt housing
- On diesel models, verify AdBlue system is functioning without warning lights
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Crossland was the first Vauxhall to be built on a PSA (Peugeot-Citroën) platform rather than a General Motors one, being manufactured in Spain alongside the Peugeot 2008.
Despite its SUV appearance, the Crossland is front-wheel drive only - no four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive option was ever offered.
The rear seats slide forwards and backwards by up to 150mm, allowing you to prioritise either passenger legroom or boot space depending on your needs.
Vauxhall dropped the 'X' suffix from the Crossland X name in 2019 as part of a wider rebranding exercise that also affected the Grandland X.
Alternatives to Consider
Nissan Juke
6/10More distinctive styling, better reliability record, and more engaging to drive, though rear space is more cramped
Peugeot 2008
6/10Shares the same platform and engines but with more upmarket interior and distinctive i-Cockpit design, similar pricing on used market
Ford Puma
7/10More enjoyable driving experience, clever boot space solutions, and better resale values, though slightly more expensive
Owner Tips
- 1If buying a 1.2 PureTech petrol model, check service history for timing belt replacements and be aware of potential engine issues - consider an extended warranty
- 2Ensure the infotainment system software is up to date, as this resolves many freezing and connectivity issues
- 3Test the electric parking brake thoroughly during viewing, as replacements can be costly
- 4Check for service history documentation of AdBlue system maintenance on diesel models to avoid expensive sensor failures
- 5The sliding rear seats can stick - ensure they move smoothly and check the runners for damage or debris
- 6Budget for air conditioning servicing every 2-3 years as compressor failures are relatively common
- 7Inspect interior trim carefully for rattles and loose panels, particularly around the dashboard and door cards
- 8Consider models from 2020 onwards if concerned about reliability, as many early issues were addressed by then
Check a specific Vauxhall Crossland
Enter a registration number to see MOT history, tax status and more
