It has been a couple of years since we last spent time with the Opel Mokka. Launched in 2012 this compact crossover has sold well in Ireland and extremely well in the UK. It’s a great looking vehicle that offers a good all-round package. The engine range was the only limiting factor when the vehicle was first launched but several updates since then has seen a vast improvement under the bonnet. Gone are the loud 1.7-litre diesel power plants and in their place you get a new refined 1.6-litre engine that’s much smoother and more efficient. Petrol fans still have the option of a turbocharged 1.4 engine and its still worth considering as an alternative to the diesel. Our test car has been fitted with the 136bhp 1.6-litre diesel and it feels potent to drive. In SE spec you get standard features like tasteful 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, Daytime running lights, Bi-xenon headlights with dynamic beam leveling and Rain-sensitive windscreen wipers to name but a few all are included in the price €27,745.
Our test vehicle had the additional two coat metallic paint, Navi 950 Intellink, Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) incorporating bi-xenon headlights with dynamic beam leveling and high-pressure washers bringing the total up to €30,561. Yes the price climbs but don’t be put off because the entry cost for a Mokka is €20,995 and you can spec it to your budgetary requirements. Our advice is to opt for the diesel though and stay away from the optional four-wheel-drive transmission unless you really need it. Also watch out for the automatic gearbox unless it’s a necessity because this will increase running costs even further.
Our time with the Mokka was enjoyable and it still feels like a quality little car to drive. The power from the new 1.6 is smooth and by no means slow, allowing you to touch 100km/h under 10 seconds and hit a top speed of 191km/h should you be holidaying close to a German Autobahn! Driven sensibly Opel state it uses about 4.3 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres. Whilst this is impressive, it really is in ultimate conditions because we found it difficult to return those type of figures. With that said, it still only dishes out 114g/km of CO2 meaning it falls into tax band A4 with an annual bill of just €200. Inside it is comfortable with an excellent seating position. Space for people in the rear is ample and it has a 356-litre boot capacity.
My only gripe is the amount of buttons on the centre console. They are not difficult to use but it will be great when the clutter free layout from the new Astra or Insignia filters down to the Mokka. On the plus side everything is within easy reach and simple to operate. Its like a dash with lots of shortcut keys rather than sub-menus which some will prefer. After seven days of pleasurable driving we gave the Mokka back happy to once again have spent some time with it. Opel have plans to bring a limited edition model to the market in the not to distant future and towards the back end of 2016 we should also see the Opel Mokka X which will be a heavily revised Mokka to include a new family facelift. Watch this space!
Opel Mokka 1.6 CDTi SE Technical Specification
Engine Size – 1.6 CDTi
Fuel Type – Diesel
Power – 136hp
Torque – 320Nm
Acceleration (0-100km/h) – 9.9 seconds
Top Speed – 191 km/h
Consumption (Combined) – 4.3L/100km
CO2 Emissions – 114g/km
Road Tax – Band A4 €200
Base Price – €20,995
Price as Tested – €30,561
