Could the New Vauxhall Mokka Dethrone the Ford Puma?

It's hard not to admire Ford of Europe, particularly Ford of Britain. Successfully swapping the Fiesta for a compact SUV was an ambitious challenge, but they pulled it off seamlessly. Sales figures are rising, a trend that Stellantis aims to replicate with its competitor, the Vauxhall Mokka.

Having passed the midpoint of what is expected to be a seven- or potentially an eight-year manufacturing schedule, this 4,150 mm-long vehicle—a high hatchback, crossover, or SUV—label it as you prefer—is experiencing a renewed surge.

Over 10,000 units of the Mokka were purchased in Europe's biggest domestic car market throughout the first six months of 2025, with Opel introducing the updated version just prior to Vauxhall launching it in the UK several months earlier.

The quickest electric Vauxhall model yet is coming soon

In addition to the cosmetic updates, vibrant colors, new wheel designs, and updated console, there have been numerous mechanical improvements. These enhancements are still being introduced, highlighted by the latest release of the GSE. This version features a motor delivering 207 kW (280 PS) and 345 Nm of torque, making it the quickest electric Opel or Vauxhall so far. Launches will begin later this year, ensuring the vehicle remains relevant in car industry discussions.

Released in 2020, the new version of the Mokka shares the CMP platform with several small hatchbacks and crossover models from various Stellantis brands. Such vehicles are the Corsa, Jeep Avenger, DS 3, Fiat 600, Lancia Ypsilon, and Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The car also rolls off the same assembly line located at Peugeot's plant in Poissy, France.

Three options from ICE and two electric vehicles

A diesel engine was previously available for the UK market, but it has since been discontinued, resulting in these options:

100 kW (136 horsepower) 1.2-liter inline-three turbocharged engine with a six-speed manual transmission
96 kW (130 horsepower, 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine, eight-speed automatic)
107 kW (145 HP) 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged hybrid with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission
115 kW (156 PS) electric motor with a single gear transmission
207 kilowatts (280 horsepower) electric power, single-gear transmission (only for GSE)

Vauxhall offers the Mokka in four trim levels, these being Griffin, Design, GS and Ultimate. Excluding only the most powerful motor, every propulsion system is available for each. Griffin is a recent addition, this base grade offering a little less standard equipment than for Design specification.

The vehicle no longer includes fake chrome plastic trim on the outside, but the upper two trims come with black side panels, as well as black accents at the front and back. Additionally, Opel and Vauxhall now use their 'Vizor' design feature, which is intended to resemble a darkened motorcycle helmet shield. Certain external accessories are made from black plastic (such as the Vauxhall badges on specific models), contrasting with vibrant new color options. The taillights have been redesigned, along with the wheel styles.

It begins with a key rather than a button

The cabin has undergone some updates, beginning with the inclusion of standard 10-inch screens for both the entertainment system and instrument cluster. Additionally, every Ultimate model now features integration with ChatGPT and EV-specific navigation routing. It's positive news that Stellantis continues to offer physical, hands-on controls for climate management systems. Moreover, on the GS Hybrid prototype, there was even a real ignition key cylinder, which served as a nice touch. While the parking brake is electronic, it performs nearly as effectively as a traditional mechanical version.

Vauxhall and Opel aren't the only ones using a significant amount of recycled materials in their vehicle interiors. The fabric used for seats feels pleasant while eliminating the temperature-related problems often associated with vinyl or leather. Why do original equipment manufacturers still choose these options? Similarly, the shiny black plastic commonly seen also has drawbacks as it easily displays dirt and smudges. However, at least the newly designed steering wheel features a non-reflective finish on its controls and the layout of the display functions operates smoothly.

The Mokka struggles when it comes to interior space, as the trunk offers just 350 liters. This is significantly lower compared to the Puma and many competing models. Still, despite limited rear storage—keep in mind this is a compact vehicle with a somewhat low ceiling—the seatbacks are comfortable, ensuring passenger knee comfort remains satisfactory. When the seats are folded down, the total capacity reaches 1,105 liters.

New MHEV powertrain

Many Vauxhalls typically have the characteristics of vehicles designed in Germany, similar to numerous models from Ford Europe. What I'm referring to is responsive handling and stiff rather than soft suspension settings. A further resemblance between the Mokka and its competitor the Puma is their elevated stance, which also enhances performance.

Stellantis has been subtly enhancing the 100 kW (136 PS) 1.2-liter 48V mild hybrid system used across numerous models. This improvement is now available in the Mokka. The Junior Ibrida Q4 was the initial model to receive the upgraded 107 kW (145 PS) variant. However, compared to the front-wheel-drive Opel/Vauxhall, the Alfa features four-wheel drive, two electric motors, and a multi-link rear suspension setup.

The Jeep Avenger and Peugeot 2008 both include the latest high-output engine/motor setup. This component remains part of the six-speed dual-clutch transmission and adds 21 kW along with 55 Nm, contributing to a total output of 107 kW.

Summary

Not just an ordinary mild-hybrid system but also not fully a plug-in hybrid, the Hybrid 145, similar to its predecessor the Hybrid 136, offers excellent fuel efficiency and very minimal exhaust emissions. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking in this category who prefer not to switch to all-electric vehicles. With Stellantis continuously refining both its powertrain choices and the Mokka model, Vauxhall remains strong within the compact SUV market.

The Vauxhall Mokka begins at a price of £25,375 on-the-road. The tested GS Hybrid model comes out to £29,110 without additional features. It achieves an average combined fuel efficiency between 57.6 and 58.9 miles per gallon, with CO2 emissions officially listed at 108–110 grams per kilogram.

"Would a new Vauxhall Mokka challenge the Ford Puma?" was initially created and published by Just Auto , a owned brand.

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