Opel’s new Skoda Yeti, Nissan Juke and Qashqai rival
Opel has finally added a compact SUV to their range, we spent a week behind the wheel of their newest addition
What is it? It may sound like a new type of coffee but the Mokka is Opel’s first ever compact Sports Utility Vehicle and competes with established rivals such as the Skoda Yeti.
Who is it aimed at? From young families to empty nesters, the chunky Mokka supermini-sized SUV should appeal to a broad base of customers. The Mokka is certainly designed with activity in mind and the FlexFix bike carrier, capable of holding three bicycles, will certainly interest keen cyclists.
Styling? With its rugged styling, Opel design cues and bulging wheel arches, the very smart Mokka is one of the best looking SUVs on the road.
Under the Bonnet? We drove the 1.4 turbo petrol version, which comes equipped with four wheel drive.
With up to 1,372 litre of loading space, the Mokka offers plenty of space
What’s it like inside? Inside there is plenty of head and legroom and a good commanding view from behind the wheel. The dash and instrument panel is all very familiar Opel territory and there is a premium feel throughout. With more than 19 cubby holes and storage spaces and up to 1,372 litres of luggage space the Mokka is surprisingly roomy inside. While there is plenty of room in the front, the back would be cramped for adults on a long trip but would be fine for kids.
On the Road? Our test car the 1.4-litre turbo petrol makes reasonable progress and ambles along nicely. We would have liked a lot more oomph from the engine and at times overtaking it lags a little but it’s more than adequate for motorway cruising. Around the city it is simple to manoeuvre and park but on less than perfect road surfaces the stiff suspension is noticeable.
And Safety? Safety features include anti-lock brakes, eight airbags as standard, electronic stability programme, hill start assist, traction control and hill descent control. In addition there is front camera fitted that picks up road signs and warns of speed restrictions up to 60km away.
Options? Apart from front-wheel drive (FWD), the Mokka is also offered with all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction and handling. The engine range includes a 1.6-litre petrol, a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol and a 1.7-litre diesel
How about Fuel Economy? The 1.4 engine offers decent fuel economy. The Mokka returns 6.3 litres per 100 km on a combined cycle and CO2 levels of 149g/km means it qualifies for Band C for motor tax so it comes with an annual bill of €390.
Okay so the verdict? Rivals may be sharper to drive but the Mokka is surprisingly roomy, comfortable, and easy to drive. It is also very stylish, inside and out, and functional so for many families it will tick all the right boxes.
Why you’ll buy one; Interior space; Sporty Stylish looks
Why you won’t: Ride quality; Pricey compared with rivals
Rivals
Skoda Yeti 4X4 €30,045
Dacia Duster Signature 4WD €19,990
Opel Mokka SE 1.4i 140bhp (4×4)
Engine: 1364cc, petrol engine putting out 103kW (140bhp) @ 6000rpm and 200Nm of torque between 1,850 – 4,900rpm.
Max speed: 190 km/h
0-100 kph: 9.9 seconds
Emissions(Motor Tax) : 149g/km (€390)
Model price range: €19,995 – €30,195 (Test car – €29,581*)
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 6.3 litres/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 356 Litres (1372 litres)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4278mm
Width: 1777mm
Height: 1654mm
Wheelbase: 2555mm
* Optional extras include Premium Paint €895, Sat Nav €1039, Opel Eye €995
Space Saver Wheel €157
For more information check out Opel.ie
23rd January, 2013
