Mokka has gotta lotta new features
WHILE Vauxhall’s never struggled with shifting new cars, its models have never really done much to inspire, whether that be to drive, look at or ride in.
That was especially true of the Mokka X – a car with all the desirability of spending a week on holiday with the mother-inlaw, yet which sold remarkably well.
That car was killed off in 2019 and Vauxhall is now back with a new model – but is it worth considering?
What’s new?
Just about everything.
You’ll see the ‘X’ in its name has vanished, while this new Mokka has been developed under the PSA Group (Peugeot and Citroën).
It paves the way with a new design direction, new powertrains and also the option of a new electric model.
It’s also now more distinguishable from the brand’s similarly-sized Crossland, which Vauxhall bills as the more functional one, while the Mokka becomes the more stylish and desirable of the pair.
How does it look?
The Mokka is a hugely important car for Vauxhall when it comes to design too, and showcases a new styling direction for the firm, influenced by the GT X Experimental Concept shown off several years ago.
A particular highlight is the ‘Vizor’, which will feature on future models from the firm, and is already on the updated Crossland.
This sees the headlights, grille and Vauxhall badge all placed into one module behind a strip of glass, and it certainly looks the part.
Elsewhere, the Mokka is actually 12cm shorter than the outgoing car, while a range of personalisation options will no doubt appeal to buyers.
SRi models, for example, get red accents throughout, even on the alloys.
What’s it like inside?
The cabin has had a digital makeover, with all Mokkas now coming with something known as the ‘Pure Panel’ – which sees a digital dials screen and touchscreen merged in one strip. Higher-spec models get larger screens (up to 10 inches for the touchscreen and 12 for the digital dials).
The instrument cluster is a particular highlight, with superb clarity and ease of use.
We’re also impressed Vauxhall has kept traditional controls for the climate settings – something sister brands Citroën and Peugeot don’t get right.
The 350-litre boot is one of the smallest in this class, while rear legroom isn’t all that impressive. A Volkswagen T-Cross is a better option where space is concerned.
Vauxhall’s new Mokka is radically different to its predecessor, but is it for the better? Ted Welford finds out.
The verdict
This is a huge step for the Mokka. It now drives better, looks superb, gets all the latest tech and has a much more pleasant interior.
Vauxhall says it hopes to appeal to existing Mokka owners (who will be in for a revelation if they make the switch) and Corsa owners.
It isn’t going to compete for class honours, but should prove to be a sales hit.