Vauxhall Mokka Review - Wake up and smell the coffee
The latest brew from Vauxhall lasts a bit longer.
A Coffee Invitation and a Quick Exit
I was recently invited into my neighbour’s house for a cup of coffee when bringing him over an Amazon parcel I’d taken delivery of on his behalf. I don’t want to offend the person in question but to put it kindly, it wasn’t the best brew I’d had in my life. So as not to offend, I quickly necked it and set off on my way.
The New Vauxhall Mokka - A Brew That Delivers
Well here’s a brew from Vauxhall that certainly isn’t offending. It’s the latest version of their funky electric SUV, the Mokka, and this one has got a bit more poke and can go further. It is the perfect combination.
Upgraded Performance and Range
You can still get the entry level Mokka Electric which delivers 134bhp but when going for the same trim, for an extra grand you can get this new 154bhp version. This will increase your range from an estimated 209 miles to 252 miles and reduces the 0-60mph time to 9 seconds. Your top speed is 92mph. To be honest, when the price difference is only a grand I can’t see why anyone would bother going for the smaller power unit. The electric motor and battery have been brought in from the new Corsa Electric which means the battery now gets a heat pump which helps when it comes to charging. Vauxhall reckon you can go from 20-80 per cent charge on a 100kW rapid charger in 27 minutes. A typical 7kW home wallbox will deliver a full charge in around 7 hours. Plug in the Mokka Electric when you get home and you’ll be ready to go the next morning.
Driving Modes and Regenerative Braking
You can choose between three driving modes; Eco, Normal, and Sport, and range can be preserved by activating ‘B’ mode via a button on the gear selector to increase the level of regenerative braking.
Trim Levels and Features
The 134bhp Mokka Electric is available in a choice of three trim levels: Griffin, GS and Ultimate, but the full-fat 154bhp model offers just GS and Ultimate. Both trims offer all of the essential stuff and plenty of other goodies.
GS Trim Features
GS trim gives you 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels with red accents, dark tinted rear windows and a black roof. The navigation system comes via a central 10-inch colour touchscreen. It looks good and works okay, although it could be a bit quicker. Behind the flat-bottomed, heated steering wheel there’s a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. You also get heated front seats, dual-zone electronic climate control, rear view camera, and LED headlights. I wouldn’t bother forking out an additional £2300 for Ultimate trim, although the Matrix headlights are fantastic. GS gives you a sufficient amount.
Design and Build Quality
Vauxhall has come on leaps and bounds in terms of build quality and design. It’s all down to the simple fact that the company is now part of the Stellantis group and can pick and choose the best bits from other brands in the stable. The interior is good to look at and has a quality feel to it. Good news! There are knobs for the audio and temperature controls. There’s also a load of room up front, but taller adults in the rear will find their knees pushed up against the front seats. Kids will be fine though.
On the Road Performance
Out on the road, the Mokka Electric, even with the additional oomph, isn’t a flyer, but I suspect that most buyers won’t be too fussed about that. You don’t get the rocket, off the line surge that other EVs can offer, but when it comes to a family orientated SUV, you get more than adequate performance. Most buyers will be more concerned about having a decent range, plenty of safety kit, easy charging and a comfy ride. In all of those areas, you can tick the box. The Mokka is good to drive, but if you are hoping for a sporty SUV, I’d be looking elsewhere.
Driving Position and Noise Levels
The driving position is quite high but, because the bonnet (which has a smart crease down the centre like the old Viva) is also quite high, you don’t feel as though you’re perched in a lofty position. This is really handy when driving around town. Once you build up speed, something you’ll notice is that, although EVs are generally quiet to ride around in, the Mokka Electric is extremely hushed. There’s hardly any road or wind noise.
Stylish Design and Market Success
And yes, as with the rest of the Mokka range, this electric version looks good. The ‘visor’ trim under the bonnet looks terrific as do the slim all-day running lights.
It’s no surprise therefore that the Mokka Electric is one of the UK’s best-selling EVs in the small SUV segment. I’d also say that, although it’s the most expensive, it’s also the best Mokka overall and at £39,735 for GS trim with the bigger battery, it represents respectable value. It is certainly an option to ponder over a cup of coffee.
words: Graham Courtney
pictures: Vauxhall
