Used Vauxhall Mokka Hatchback 2012-2016 review

When the Vauxhall Mokka launched in 2013, it was intended to inject new life into the brand. To an extent, it did just that and has been an impressive sales success ever since. So much so that it was only slightly altered when the facelifted Mokka X arrived in 2016.

It helped that the Mokka’s roll-out was timed perfectly to capitalise on the sudden growth in the market for compact SUVs. In addition, the Mokka was good value to buy new, scored top marks in Euro NCAP’s crash tests and the chunky styling still looks great several years on.

Ride comfort is also somewhat lacking, with the Mokka picking up on all sorts of bumps and dips in the road. The car is not helped by seats that lack support and a body that leans over as soon as you turn into a corner. There’s a fair bit of road and wind noise to endure, too.

As for engines, the highlights are Vauxhall’s 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol and its smooth and punchy 1.6-litre diesel. It’s a shame you have to put up with a notchy gearchange and lifeless steering, though.

Unlike many of its rivals, you can also have Vauxhall’s compact SUV with four-wheel drive, which might appeal to those living in rural areas worried about getting stranded in the winter months.

So, the Mokka effectively straddled two classes, being somewhat larger than a Juke but smaller than a Qashqai, and it did so with some sales success. It now stands as an interesting used buy. It wasn't outstanding to drive, but it was a well-rounded and neatly styled package that delivered plenty of kit and a decent level of practicality.  The Mokka became the Mokka X in 2016, with changes to the front and rear styling and a redesigned dashboard being enough to warrant the addition of the 'X' moniker, although the car retained the stature of the original and a lot of its underpinnings.

If you're interested in buying a used Vauxhall Mokka, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car classifieds site here.

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