Vauxhall Mokka marks new direction with radical looks and all-electric option

The second generation Vauxhall Mokka has been unveiled with a radically new look and the announcement of an all-electric version from launch.

Dropping the X part of its lacklustre predecessor’s name, the new Mokka is based on the same platform as the new Corsa and a wealth of other Groupe PSA models, including the Peugeot 208 and 2008.

What was once a fairly uninspiring segment has recently been rejuvenated with the arrival of the second-generation Nissan Juke, the new Ford Puma and Volkswagen T-Roc, so Vauxhall will be hoping the new Mokka can ride that wave.

So, what’s new?

Everything, it’s an all-new car but the first and most striking thing about the new Mokka is its looks. The bold new upright front end, with slimline LED headlights and a larger Vauxhall badge is part of the Vauxhall Vizor design which we can expect to see on all new Vauxhalls in future. Elsewhere, the Mokka’s styling is sharper and more defined than the first generation car, with a taller and wider stance giving it some road presence.

Inside, the Mokka is also the first car to feature Vauxhall’s new Pure Panel which features two widescreen digital displays of between seven and 12 inches to present the driver with information and allow control of key functions. However, unlike some brands, Vauxhall has kept physical controls for key functions.

Underneath, the Mokka is based on the shared CMP platform, meaning it’s up to 130kg lighter than before but 30 per cent stiffer. The second-gen car is 12cm shorter than before thanks to reduced overhangs but the wheelbase has remained virtually unchanged, meaning interior space is similar to the first generation car. Boot space is 350 litres.

And it’s electric?

Yep. Along with regular petrol and diesel variants (details TBC) the Mokka will be available as an EV right from launch.

The Mokka-e uses the same setup as the Corsa-e, meaning it has a a 100kW (135bhp) electric motor driving the front wheels. A 50kW battery means that the Mokka-e should cover up to 201 miles on a single charge and 11kW on-board charging means it can replenish 80 per cent charge in as little as 30 minutes.

What about equipment?

Vauxhall is claiming that the Mokka leads the way on technology in the segment. All versions get full LED lighting - headlights, running lights and fog lights - and the brand’s glare-free Intellilux adaptive matrix headlights are available.

The Mokka will also be available with adaptive cruise control with stop/go and active lane positioning and interior trims include a sports-oriented Alcantara finish or leather upholstery with optional heating and massage functions in the seats.

Infotainment ranges from an entry-level seven-inch “Multimedia Radio” system to a 10-inch touchscreen with “Multimedia Navi Pro”, integrated into the Pure Panel dash. Smartphone mirroring with voice control, wireless charging and automatic emergency calling also feature.

Orders for the new Mokka and Mokka-e open this summer, with the car due in showrooms in early 2021.

Related topics: