The all-new Opel / Vauxhall Mokka subcompact crossover is finally here and it debuts in all-electric Mokka-e guise.
It’s the first-ever model from the Opel and Vauxhall brands to debut with fully-electric propulsion. The second-generation Mokka also debuts Opel and Vauxhall’s new progressive brand face in the form of the Vizor front fascia that will be adopted by all future models; additionally, the crossover becomes the brand’s first model to feature the next-generation Pure Panel fully digital cockpit.
Interestingly and not that common in today’s automotive world, the 2021 Mokka is 125 mm (4.9 in) shorter than its predecessor, measuring 4,150 mm (163.4 in) bumper to bumper.
See Also: Buick Drops New Photos Of Velite 7 Electric Crossover That Previews America’s Bolt EUV
Despite that, the wheelbase is 2 mm (0.08 in) longer, which means rear passengers should have at least as much room as in the first-generation Mokka. At 350 liters (12.3 cu ft), the loading space loses only 6 liters (0.2 cu ft) compared to the outgoing model, despite the significant loss in vehicle length. The altered dimensions result in sportier proportions for the new Mokka, thanks also to the much shorter overhangs and wide stance (it’s 10 mm / 0.4 in wider).
Inside, the Pure Panel digital dash integrating two widescreen displays is the main highlight. The one in front of the driver is up to 12 inches in size, while the one in the center, tilted towards the driver, measures up to 10 inches; however, to allow the driver to focus on the road, designers kept control buttons for essential functions.
This makes the system intuitive to use, “avoiding hazardous exploration into sub-menus,” as Opel puts it. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does the OpelConnect service which enables live navigation. Wireless charging for compatible smartphones is available.
The new Opel / Vauxhall Mokka is based on a new version of PSA’s CMP (Common Modular Platform). The lightweight and efficient modular system contributes to a weight saving of up to 120 kg (264 lbs) over the previous generation. The body stiffness also stands to gain, with the Mokka-e electric variant offering up to 30 percent more torsional stiffness. The weight loss and increased rigidity make the Mokka more fuel efficient as well as more responsive, agile and fun to drive.
As with the latest Corsa, the new platform also allows the 2021 Mokka to offer a purely battery-electric drive as well as internal combustion engines. The crossover will debut in all-electric Mokka-e guise, combining an electric motor rated at 100 kW (136 PS / 134 HP) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque with a 50 kWh battery for a WLTP-rated driving range of up to 322 km (200 miles) in Normal mode. Using the Eco mode, the range can be even higher, while the Sport mode favors performance over efficiency.
Speaking of performance, the Mokka-e is limited at 150 km/h (93 mph) to preserve the energy stored in the battery. The electric crossover supports 100 kW DC fast-charging, which allows to charge 80 percent of the battery in 30 minutes. All charging options are available, from wall box, high-speed charging or cable solution for the household socket.
When it comes to technology, the 2021 Mokka marks a significant departure from its predecessor, offering advanced features such as ACC (Advanced Cruise Control) with stop and go function, Active Lane Positioning system, adaptive IntelliLux LED matrix headlights, 180-degree panorama rear-view camera, traffic sign recognition, and more.
The new Mokka will also offer diesel and petrol engines later on but when it goes on sale in late summer 2020, it will available exclusively as a fully-electric model. Deliveries of the Mokka-e will begin in early 2021.