Vauxhall Mokka Tech Line 1.6 16v

THE VAUXHALL MOKKA mixes functionality with a comfortable elevated seating position.

It’s the griffin-badged company’s answer to the Nissan Juke or the Skoda Yeti, and power to the small Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) is provided by three efficient engines, all equipped with fuel saving Start/Stop technology. The petrol version comprises a 1.6-litre engine or a 1.4-litre Turbo and there is a 1.7-litre CDTI diesel.

I drove the 113bhp 1.6 petrol Mokka; it has moderate pulling power, but, working your way through the five speed gearbox, it eventually spins up to a decent speed. It also provides a smooth and grippy ride.

Looks-wise the Mokka is beefy and incorporates Vauxhall’s signature ‘blade’ on the body side, sweeping towards the rear. Its muscular disposition is reinforced by its higher ground clearance and 18” alloy wheels.

But what I really liked about the Mokka is its cleverness. Inside, the vehicle displays archetypal Vauxhall values such as versatility and user-friendly functionality, providing up to 1,372-litres of load space and 19 storage locations. The Mokka also offers the latest generation Flex-Fix bicycle carrier.
The user-friendly case is fully integrated in the rear underbody, functioning like a drawer and accommodating up to three bikes at a time. Brilliant, if you’re into two-wheeled outdoor family fun.

The SUV is available in front-wheel and all-wheel-drive. The 4×4 system wasn’t fitted to my demo, but if I was in the market for a Mokka I’d definitely want it. As you’d expect, the extra technology ensures a high level of stability and traction, extending the car’s capabilities to more rugged environments.

It’s always worth having for extra safety reasons alone.

Standard features that enhanced the driving experience for me included Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC) as well as Hill Start Assist (HAS). Other progressive upmarket gadgetry the Mokka brings to the table includes Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting. This increases driving safety and includes High Beam Assist. The lights cut a way through the dark like a laser – they really are that good.

The Vauxhall Mokka range is available priced, as my test model was, from a very reasonable £15,995 – and it’s far more handsome than its unsightly rival, the Nissan Juke.

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist
Website www.carwriteups.co.uk
Twitter @carwriteups