Congestion, roadworks, and lane-hogging top the list of Britain's biggest motoring frustrations, according to new research from Vauxhall.
A survey of 2,000 British motorists found that stop-start traffic (34%), delays due to roadworks (27%), and drivers who hog the middle and outside motorway lanes (18%) are the leading causes of frustration on UK roads.
Despite "middle lane hogging" being one of the most irritating driving behaviours, a staggering 91% of drivers claimed to understand the rules of lane discipline and overtaking, as outlined in the Highway Code Rule 264. Under UK law, motorists must stay in the left-hand lane unless overtaking, with unnecessary middle-lane driving classified as careless driving — an offence that can attract fines and penalty points.
Yet bad habits persist: 19% of drivers admitted to using the middle lane even when traffic is light, while 10% said they drive in the middle lane "whenever possible." Only 26% of those who frequently hog the middle lane had received penalties for the offence.
The survey also revealed the consequences of poor motorway discipline. Over half (55%) of drivers admitted to undertaking slower vehicles in the middle or outside lane, rising to 62% among male drivers. Additionally, 53% of motorists said they had been forced to brake hard or change lanes abruptly to avoid slower-moving vehicles obstructing the motorway flow.
To address these common driving challenges, Vauxhall’s latest flagship SUV, the new Vauxhall Grandland, features Intelli-Drive 2.0 — the brand’s most advanced suite of driver-assistance technologies to date.
Key features include:
Vauxhall’s study found that 58% of motorists believe features like semi-automated lane change, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection could help raise motorway driving standards.
Recognising congestion as the biggest source of irritation for UK drivers, the Grandland also comes equipped with Automatic Emergency Braking with In-Crash Braking, which uses radar and a front camera to detect potential hazards — including pedestrians and cyclists — and apply braking if necessary to prevent collisions.
Eurig Druce, Managing Director of Vauxhall, said:
"At Vauxhall, we recognise the everyday frustrations that British drivers face, from congestion and roadworks to the irritation of lane-hogging on motorways. That’s why we’ve equipped the Grandland with our most advanced Intelli-Drive 2.0 technology, designed to make driving safer and smoother. With a focus on technology and affordability, we’re committed to making driving as safe and pleasurable as possible for British motorists."
The new Vauxhall Grandland Electric crowns Vauxhall’s refreshed SUV line-up and marks the brand’s first model built on the STLA Medium platform. Key specifications include:
Vauxhall is committed to an electric future, now offering a fully electric version across its entire car and van line-up. The new Grandland is available to order now.