As part of the brand’s revitalised model range, the new Opel Mokka has arrived in South Africa, hot on the heels of the innovative Opel Zafira, and judging by its looks it is certainly an SUV that will stand out of the crowd.
Two models are available locally: the Mokka Elegance and Mokka GS Line, both powered by a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Opel Mokka’s award-winning petrol engine is both lively and economical, offering high efficiency and good dynamic performance. The 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol unit delivers 96kW at 5 500 r/min and thanks to low internal friction and responsive turbo technology, allows the delivery of high torque at low revs. Despite its power, this all-aluminium engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox offers fuel consumption of 5.3- and 6.1 l/100 km on the extra-urban and combined cycle respectively with just 139g/km of CO2.
The new Mokka is up to 120 kg lighter than the previous generation. The rigidity of the body has also been improved, ensuring that it consumes much less fuel while being much more responsive, agile and fun to drive.
This compact five-seater of 4.15 meters long has short overhangs and a wide footprint. Seen from the front, the most striking element is the Opel Vizor, with its unmistakable design. As on a full-face helmet, a protective visor covers the new front face of the Opel, combining in a single element the grille, the LED headlights and the new logo with the Opel lightning bolt.
The model name appears in the centre of the tailgate with a specific font that forms the word “Mokka” in a technical, fluid and lively way and is stretched in a wide landscape format.
Inside the cabin the new Opel Pure Panel incorporates two large screens to leave room only for the essentials. Unlike dashboards overloaded with information and controls, the Pure Panel displays an original and refined line. The structure is clear and understandable at a glance. The system works intuitively, but buttons still control the most important functions without having to navigate through menus.
The new Mokka continues the Opel tradition of bringing the innovative technologies that until recently were only available in the luxury car class.
Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection on GS Line models work at speeds above 5km/h. When the Mokka approaches a vehicle or pedestrian too quickly, the system emits a warning signal and displays a message in the driver information centre. If a collision is imminent, the braking system is prepared and, if necessary, emergency braking is initiated to minimise the effects of a potential collision. Below 30km/h, the system can bring the vehicle to a complete stop. If the speed exceeds 30 km/h, the speed is reduced, and the driver must brake hard.
Adaptive cruise control maintains a set safe distance between the new Mokka and the vehicle in front, using radar sensors and cameras. It works between 30km/h and 180km/h. Vehicle speed increases or decreases to follow the vehicle in front, but never exceeds the set speed. With automatic transmission, the system offers an additional stop and go function. It is thus able to brake the car to a standstill and follow the vehicle in front in traffic jams.
Adding additional peace of mind is a standard three-year/120 000km warranty and roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at every 12 months or 15 000km but are covered by the Mokka’s four-year/60 000km service plan.
The Mokka 1.2T Elegance has a price tag of R469 900, while the Mokka 1.2T GS Line costs R519 900.
