The Vauxhall Mokka 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp), produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant entry by Vauxhall (a subsidiary of Stellantis) into the burgeoning subcompact SUV market. While not initially sold in the United States, the Mokka – known as the Opel Mokka in mainland Europe – was a key model for Vauxhall in the United Kingdom and other European countries. It aimed to provide a stylish, practical, and fuel-efficient option for buyers seeking a small SUV with a focus on urban usability. The Mokka’s success paved the way for further expansion of Vauxhall’s SUV lineup and demonstrated the growing consumer demand for this vehicle type.
Vauxhall Mokka 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC: Overview
The first-generation Mokka was based on the Gamma platform, shared with other small Opel/Vauxhall vehicles. It distinguished itself with a bold exterior design, a relatively spacious interior for its size, and a range of efficient engine options. The 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC diesel engine, producing 130 horsepower, was a popular choice, particularly in markets where diesel fuel was more prevalent and economically advantageous. This model aimed to balance performance with fuel economy, appealing to drivers seeking a practical and cost-effective vehicle for daily commuting and occasional longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Mokka 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC is a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated A17DTS. This engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to deliver a power output of 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a torque of 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) between 2000 and 2500 rpm. The engine’s specific output is 77.1 horsepower per liter. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.5 seconds. The Mokka 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC achieves a maximum speed of 187 km/h (116.2 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 120 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Mokka is a five-door, five-seat SUV characterized by its distinctive styling. The exterior features a high-set hood, a prominent grille, and sculpted body lines. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a comfortable cabin with adequate space for passengers and luggage. Trunk space ranges from 362 liters (12.78 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1372 liters (48.45 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear. The Mokka’s McPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension contribute to a comfortable ride. Safety features were becoming increasingly important during this period, and the Mokka offered a reasonable level of equipment for its class. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4278 mm (168.43 in) in length, 1777 mm (69.96 in) in width, and 1654 mm (65.12 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2555 mm (100.59 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Mokka |
| Generation | Mokka |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTS |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1858 kg (4096.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 362 l (12.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1372 l (48.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4278 mm (168.43 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2555 mm (100.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 943 mm (37.13 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 780 mm (30.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/70 R16; 205/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Vauxhall Mokka 1.7 CDTi ecoTEC, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid offering in the subcompact SUV segment. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and distinctive styling contributed to its success in European markets and helped establish Vauxhall as a competitive player in the growing SUV category.


