Vauxhall Mokka
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small SUV that stands out from the crowd? The Vauxhall Mokka might be exactly what you need. This compact crossover has been completely redesigned to offer bold styling, modern technology, and efficient engines in a package that’s easy to live with every day. It’s the car for drivers who want SUV practicality without the size and running costs of a larger vehicle.

The second generation Mokka is a dramatic improvement over its predecessor. Its eye catching design language sets it apart from rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Kamiq. The cabin feels modern and uncluttered, with a focus on simplicity rather than overwhelming you with buttons and screens. You get the sense that Vauxhall has listened to customer feedback and created something genuinely appealing.

What makes the Mokka particularly interesting is the choice of powertrains. Whether you want a traditional petrol engine, efficient hybrid power, or the silent running of the fully electric Mokka E, there’s an option to suit your needs. The driving experience is refined and comfortable, making it ideal for both urban commuting and longer family trips. While it faces tough competition in the crowded small SUV market, the Mokka’s distinctive styling and improved quality make it worth serious consideration.

What's the Vauxhall Mokka Like to Drive?

The Vauxhall Mokka offers a range of efficient powertrains designed for real world driving rather than outright performance. The entry level 1.2 litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 100 horsepower, which feels adequate around town and on country roads. For those wanting more power, the 130 horsepower version provides notably better acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 9 seconds. The hybrid variant combines a 1.2 litre engine with electric assistance for improved fuel economy and smoother low speed driving.

The Mokka’s strength lies in its refined driving manners rather than sporty handling. The steering is light and precise, making it a joy to park and manoeuvre in tight spaces. The suspension does an excellent job of smoothing out road imperfections while keeping body roll well controlled through corners. Road and wind noise are kept to a minimum, creating a peaceful cabin environment. This small SUV feels composed and mature on the motorway, with enough power for confident overtaking when needed.

Inside the Vauxhall Mokka: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Mokka and you’ll find one of the most dramatically improved interiors in recent memory. The dashboard design is clean and modern, dominated by a large touchscreen that controls most functions. The materials feel solid and well assembled, with soft touch surfaces where your hands naturally fall. The digital instrument cluster is crisp and easy to read, while physical controls for climate and volume are thankfully retained for easy operation while driving.

The front seats provide good support and comfort for longer journeys, with plenty of adjustment to find your ideal driving position. Rear passengers get adequate space for adults on shorter trips, though taller passengers might find headroom slightly tight. The cabin is impressively quiet at motorway speeds, adding to the premium feel. Standard equipment includes smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to integrate your digital life. Higher trim levels add features like heated seats and wireless phone charging that enhance the daily driving experience.

The Vauxhall Mokka succeeds in delivering a genuinely appealing small SUV that stands out in a crowded market. Its bold styling, improved interior quality, and range of efficient powertrains make it a compelling choice for buyers wanting something different. The driving experience is refined and comfortable, while the cabin feels more upmarket than previous Vauxhall models.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Vauxhall Mokka?

The Mokka impresses with its efficient engines and reasonable running costs for the small SUV class. The petrol engines achieve real world fuel economy figures in the mid to high 40s MPG, while the hybrid can reach over 50 MPG with careful driving. The fully electric Mokka E offers the lowest running costs of all, with charging at home costing significantly less than filling up with petrol. Insurance groups are moderate, ranging from 15 to 20 depending on the engine and trim level chosen.

Purchase prices start from around £24,000 for the entry level model, rising to over £35,000 for a well equipped electric version. This places it competitively against rivals, though some alternatives offer more equipment for similar money. Vauxhall’s warranty coverage is comprehensive, providing peace of mind for new car buyers. For those looking at financing options, car finance packages are widely available with competitive rates. The Mokka’s strong fuel economy and competitive servicing costs help keep long term ownership affordable, especially when compared to larger SUVs.

Vauxhall Mokka Practicality & Boot Space

The Mokka offers decent practicality for its compact dimensions, though it prioritises style over maximum space. The 350 litre boot is adequate for weekly shopping or a couple of suitcases, and the rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity when needed. Inside the cabin, door pockets and cup holders provide storage for everyday items, while the centre console offers space for phones and keys.

Where the Mokka shows its limitations is in rear seat space and overall storage capacity compared to more practical rivals. It’s perfectly suited to couples or small families who don’t regularly carry large loads or adult passengers in the back. The high seating position gives you a commanding view of the road, making it feel more substantial than a conventional hatchback. For urban use and light family duties, the Mokka strikes a good balance between style and substance, offering enough space for most people’s needs without feeling unwieldy in city traffic. Consider used Vauxhall cars if you want to explore more spacious alternatives.

The Vauxhall Mokka represents a significant step forward for the brand, offering a genuinely desirable small SUV that can compete with the best in its class. It combines eye catching design, a high quality interior, and efficient powertrains in a package that’s easy to live with every day. The availability of hybrid and fully electric versions makes it future ready, while the refined driving experience suits both city commuting and longer journeys.

You choose the Mokka because you want a small SUV that doesn’t blend into the background. Its distinctive styling, comfortable interior, and efficient engines make it an excellent choice for modern driving needs. Whether you opt for petrol, hybrid, or electric power, you get a well rounded package that prioritises comfort and efficiency. For buyers seeking a stylish alternative to mainstream choices, the Mokka should definitely be on your shortlist, with cars under £10,000 providing excellent value in the used market.