Used Vauxhall Mokka X Review (2016-2020) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Spacious
- Plenty of kit
- Sleek design
- Uncomfortable over poor surfaces
- Rivals offer a more engaging drive
- Limited vision in the rear
What's the Vauxhall Mokka X like?
When Vauxhall first launched the Mokka, the 1.6-litre diesel models were impressive, but the petrol engine of the same size was somewhat underwhelming,
Move on to the second generation – called the Mokka X – and although the petrol was still available, there was also a new 1.4-litre turbo that was a delight to drive, with great performance in such a high-sided SUV.
By this time – 2016 to 2020 – there was also a more powerful diesel that added performance with only a small loss in economy.
There have also been both petrol and diesel models with intelligent four-wheel drive, and an automatic gearbox has also been available with the more powerful engines.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The Mokka X is predictable and safe through the corners, with a fair amount of feel from the steering. However, the suspension is quite firm, and this translates into an unsettled ride over poorer surfaces at times.
The standard traction and stability control works very well, so if too much speed is carried into a corner, the resulting understeer is quickly negated.
Where the intelligent 4WD is fitted, it maintains almost total front-wheel drive most of the time, but switches automatically to 50/50 front to rear traction when conditions demand.
There are an amazing 19 cubbies and other storage spaces around the cabin, which is more than enough for most families.
The boot is an excellent size, and can be extended by removing a false floor, and the back seats fold in a 60/40 pattern for larger items.
Peter Hayward
Vision is good to the front and side from the high driver’s seat, but is fairly limited to the rear.
Engines
The lowest powered petrol model is the 115bhp 1.6-litre as mentioned, which takes a leisurely 11.4 seconds to get to 60mph and gives a best of 42mpg.
The 1.4-litre 140bhp turbo is a much better bet, reaching the benchmark in 9.0 seconds and managing 47mpg.
There's also a 153bhp version of this same engine that comes with 4WD and a standard automatic gearbox. It gets to 60mph in 9.1 seconds and is capable of 43mpg.
Now we come to the diesels, both of which are 1.6-litre in size. The 110bhp version reaches 60mph in 11.1 seconds and is capable of an excellent 70mpg, while the 136bhp version brings the sprint down to 9.0 seconds and can still do 68mpg.
Equipment
The Mokka X was launched with fresh interior and exterior style and tech must-haves like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as part of the stereo, controlled from a new dash borrowed from the Astra and designed around 7 or 8-inch touch screens.
There are eight trim levels available, starting with Active, and moving up through Design Line, Design Nav, Elite, Elite Nav, Griffin, Griffin Plus and Ultimate.
But even the lowliest Active comes with a decent amount of kit, including climate control, alarm system, heated electric mirrors, alloy wheels and excellent seat adjustment – electric in many models.
They also have audio remote control, cruise control, plenty of airbags, traction and stability control and hill start assistance. Mid-range Elite Nav adds sat nav, tinted rear windows and leather covered, heated sports seats.
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Find your Vauxhall Mokka X your way with CarStore
The Vauxhall Mokka X is a small SUV that combines style with practicality, offering a decent amount of room inside and a sleek design inside and out. With a range of flexible engines and an abundance of equipment across the range, the Mokka X makes a fine family car.
