Introduction
The Vauxhall Mokka first hit showrooms in 2013 at a time when the crossover segment was just beginning to grow exponentially.
In 2016, as part of a Opel/Vauxhall shake-up, the X was added to its name, as well as receiving a hefty facelift.
The ‘X’ was added to its name as a move that would be introduced across its future crossovers – the Crossland X and Grandland X - which are now both on sale. It received a new front end, giving the Mokka X a more serious look– rather than cutesy one like it did before.
Vauxhall has also refreshed the interior, too. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity features have now been added, while it’s now available with the option of a 1.4-litre Ecotec petrol engine from the Astra.
Performance
Vauxhall only offers the choice of two engines on the Mokka X – the aforementioned 1.4-litre direct injection petrol engine and a 136bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged diesel engine.
We got behind the wheel of the 1.4-litre petrol engine which delivers 138bhp and 200Nm of torque. While that’s quite a lot of horsepower for a car that’s not really any bigger than a normal hatchback, it happily settles down at speed for constant performance. The 1.4-litre engine is capable of getting from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds and can go on to a top speed of 122mph.
The limited engine choice also limits the appeal of the Mokka X, too. Although, both engines can be had with a six-speed manual or auto ‘box, as well as front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Ride and handling
It certainly performs best in the city where it’s designed for. Around town it feels compact and easy to manoeuvre, while the high driving position also gives you a far better view of the road and when parking. Light steering also makes the Mokka X a doddle to drive in the city, even if it feels somewhat weightless on the open road. The rear window can seem a bit too narrow though.
The suspension setup is good, though, as it delivers a comfortable ride, while the refined engine and relatively low levels of tyre and wind noise make it accomplished on long distance journeys.
Interior and equipment
As a family car, the Mokka X is hard to fault. There’s plenty of room for four adults, while the seats are also flexible, as the rear seats can fold to leave a flat floor. A 356-litre boot also eclipses that of rivals such as the Nissan Juke, which offers a measly 251 litres in comparison.
Vauxhall has also done a reasonable job of giving the Mokka X an upmarket interior feel, with excellent equipment levels and largely good-quality materials used throughout the cabin. Connectivity is also a strong point, with entry-level models being offered with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, DAB radio and Bluetooth.
Standard equipment levels are generous, too, with the aforementioned connectivity features, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control all being offered on every model.
Enquire Now on a new Vauxhall Mokka XCost
The Mokka range starts from £20,035, which is more expensive than rivals such as the Nissan Juke and Peugeot 2008, although it comes with more powerful engines and higher equipment levels.
While entry-level models are good value, high-spec models are on this pricy side, with Ultimate models costing from £27,485.
It will also be quite costly to run, particularly the petrol engine which returns just 42.8mph in its cleanest guise, with CO2 emissions of 150g/km. The diesel is more efficient, with emissions of 127g/km and fuel economy of 57.7mpg.
Verdict
The Mokka X has proven a popular choice with families, as an alternative to a standard hatch.
If you’re in the market for a family-friendly small crossover, with excellent standard equipment levels and practicality on its side, it’s a worthwhile choice to consider.
Test drive a new Vauxhall Mokka X