Vauxhall reveals new mini SUV

Vauxhall is to release a new small SUV to rival the Nissan Juke. As the sector experiences growth, with customers seeking an alternative to the conventional hatchback, Vauxhall is to reveal the new Mokka at the Geneva Motor Show in March ahead of the model’s launch towards the end of the year.

Just 4.28 metres long, the Mokka nonetheless offers accommodation for five adults. Available with a choice of diesel and petrol engines. The petrol offer comprises a 115PS, 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine or a 140PS 1.4-litre Turbo with 200Nm of torque. The diesel is a 130PS 1.7 CDTI turbo with 300Nm of torque. Both the 1.4 Turbo and the 1.7 CDTI can be combined either with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. What’s more all engine options are equipped with fuel saving Start/Stop technology.

Well equipped, the Mokka introduces a host of cutting edge technologies to the SUV B-segment, such as Driver Assistance Systems including a front camera and rear camera. In addition to a generous cargo volume, the Mokka offers the fully integrated, latest generation Flex-Fix bicycle carrier that is exclusive to Vauxhall. The user-friendly carrier is fully integrated in the rear underbody, functioning like a drawer and accommodating up to three bicycles at a time.

Design-wise, the model incorporates Vauxhall’s ‘blade’ on the body side, sweeping towards the rear.  The Mokka’s sporty character is reinforced by its higher ground clearance as well as a 1540mm track. Its robust looks are further enhanced by 18” alloy wheels which are standard on most models.

In the interior, the new Mokka displays typical Vauxhall values such as versatility and user-friendly functionality, providing up to 1,372-litres of load space and 19 storage locations.

To add to the model’s versatile nature, the Mokka will be available in Front-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive . With the All-Wheel Drive System, the Mokka automatically and seamlessly transfers power to the rear wheels whenever traction is put to the test.

Standard features that enhance the driving experience across all models include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC) as well as Hill Start Assist (HAS) and Hill Descent Control (HDC ) systems – which improve driving comfort and safety in uphill or downhill terrain. Safety-wise the model offers Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) which increases driving safety is based on the 3^rd generation Bi-Xenon lighting system that includes High Beam Assist (HBA). The new generation Vauxhall front camera system is also available, giving the driver access to a number of functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and second generation Traffic Sign Recognition.

No other sub-compact SUV offers such a system that increases safety and driving comfort. The Vauxhall Mokka will be available at Vauxhall dealerships towards the end of 2012.

Author: Faye Sunderland, January 11th, 2012
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