All-New Opel MOKKA 1.2-litre Petrol SRi Driven.

New Opel MOKKA SRi Review.

The new Opel Mokka is based on the GT X Experimental concept car from 2018 and is a replacement for the first-generation Mokka, which had the ‘X’ appendix after its name. The ‘X’ has been dropped from the name this time around, but there is no comparison between the new Mokka and what went before it. The new Opel Mokka is a handsome, proud and assertively stylish compact crossover, which cuts a dash in any carpark, while highlights include strikingly-designed wheels that are pushed out to the corners for greater interior space, the new-era Opel Vizor front fascia, and a dash of colour the begins at the base of the windscreen and ends at the rear of the car.

Fresh New Look.

The new Mokka gives buyers a fresh new look, new tech and a more modern driving experience than ever, while a wide range of trim and engine choices will enable the Mokka to secure a large share of the compact crossover market. While the previous Mokka was conceived under the ownership of Opel’s previous custodian, General Motors, the second-generation car borrows mechanical know-how from the Stellantis Group, specifically the side formerly known as Groupe PSA before it joined forces with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. To this end, the Mokka now rides on the same CMP platform as the Peugeot 2008 and DS 3 Crossback, and it shares the same engines too, with petrol, diesel and fully electric options available.

Trim & Engine Options.

The new Opel Mokka is available in a choice of three trim levels – SC, SRi and Elite – with an impressive array of comfort, convenience, and safety features coming as standard across the range. The petrol engine in the new Mokka is a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged unit which produces 110bhp or 130bhp depending on the model chosen. This ‘PureTech’ engine has won numerous awards across various applications, and is widely praised for its combination of refinement, economy, durability and power. Diesel power is provided by a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit with 110bhp, while the new fully-electric Mokka-e (which I previously reviewed) produces 136bhp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard across all trim levels in both petrol and diesel power, while an 8-speed automatic is available with the 1.2-litre 130bhp petrol engine in both SRi and Elite trim levels.

Test Car.

My test car was a new Opel Mokka SRi 1.2-litre petrol which was mated to a super-smooth 8-speed automatic transmission for pure driving pleasure. Finished in striking Jade White metallic paint with a contrasting black roof, wheel arch protectors, door mirrors, alloy wheels and bumper trim, the car really turned heads no matter where I drove in it. This in itself proved to me that the Opel design team has successfully and dramatically transformed Opel’s aesthetic spirit into an ultra-modern and desirable one. The 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine pulls strongly throughout the rev range, and with 128bhp and 230Nm of torque on board, it is never found wanting in terms of performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission in the Mokka is so simple to use, while a choice of three driving modes – Sport, Eco and Normal – puts performance-enhancing technology at the driver’s fingertips. Spending time behind the wheel of the new Mokka made me appreciate just how much better it is than the car it replaces. Excellent driving dynamics, strong brake pedal feel, and terrific body control ensure that the new Mokka is a compelling driver’s car in every respect. Standard SRi specification includes key features such as Eco-LED headlamps, LED daytime running headlamps, LED front fog lights, automatic high beam assist, rear LED lighting signature, 17” black alloy wheels, sports alloy pedals, SRi interior trim with red highlights, jet black cloth and leather-effect seat trim with red stitching, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB connectivity, 2 USB ports in rear cabin, electronic climate control, front centre armrest, rear parking sensors with 180-degree panoramic rear view camera, collision avoidance sensor with brake assist, pedestrian detection alert, electronic cruise control with speed limiter, enhanced traffic sign recognition, and lane keep assist.

Cabin & Boot Space.

Boot space in the new Mokka can range from 350-litres when the rear seat backs are in place, to an impressive 1,105-litres when the rear seat backs are folded flat, while back seat passengers will find ample head and leg room on offer. The new Mokka’s infotainment system is simple to navigate through, while a high-contrast white font on a black background works well in high and low light conditions. The cabin in the new Mokka is well laid-out and very functional, with my overall impression being that build quality and craftsmanship are top class. The new Mokka’s interior design is light years ahead of its predecessor, and is helped in no small part by a pair of digital displays for the infotainment and instrument panels. The small gear selector on the centre console looks very stylish, and this adds to the upmarket look and feel of the new Mokka’s cabin.

Pricing & Warranty.

The marvellous new Opel Mokka is priced from just €23,295 and, with a choice of colour combinations and optional extras available, buyers can personalise their new Mokka to their desired taste. My test car specification is priced from €28,795, while the fully-electric Mokka-e is available from €33,038 (inclusive of an SEAI grant and VRT rebate – t’s & c’s apply). Opel’s 3-Year/100,000km warranty comes as standard.

Visit www.opel.ie for further information.