2017 Opel/Vauxhall Crossland X First Contact: Meriva Successor Goes Crossover

Its looks may suggest go-anywhere capabilities, but it lacks all-wheel drive

Besides the Insignia, Opel and Vauxhall's other world debut at the Geneva Motor Show is the Crossland X.

Acting as a replacement for the Meriva B-segment MPV, the new model is the latest in the company's "X" line of crossovers. The raised ride height and rugged design elements certainly make it look like an SUV, but it doesn't come with all-wheel drive. After all, Opel and Vauxhall describe it as a "versatile urban crossover," which means the only jungle it's designed to cross is the city.

Step inside, and the rugged theme continues, but that's not necessarily positive because hard, scratchy plastics are everywhere. The tall driving position may help you overlook that, and so may the spacious cabin with numerous storage spaces and the fast-operating infotainment system.

Will these qualities allow the Crossland X to steal customers from the segment's leader, the Renault Captur? Only time will tell.