The Vauxhall Mokka, known as the Opel Mokka in mainland Europe, is a subcompact crossover SUV introduced in 2012. Representing Vauxhall’s entry into the rapidly growing B-segment SUV market, the Mokka aimed to blend practicality, affordability, and a distinctive design. This article focuses on the first generation Mokka (2012-2016), specifically the 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC variant with an automatic transmission, a popular configuration in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Mokka provides insight into the evolving European small SUV landscape and Vauxhall’s engineering approach.
Vauxhall Mokka 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC: An Overview
The Mokka was a significant model for Vauxhall (and its sister brand Opel), as it was one of the first vehicles to adopt the brand’s “sculptural clarity” design language. It offered a higher ride height and more interior space than traditional hatchbacks, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and modern vehicle. The 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a competitive option in its class. The Mokka’s success helped pave the way for the continued expansion of Vauxhall’s SUV lineup.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Mokka 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC is a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 140 horsepower at 4900 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1850 and 4900 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) for optimized efficiency and responsiveness. The six-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes and contributes to a comfortable driving experience. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 116.2 mph (187 km/h). Fuel economy is rated at 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers combined (34.6 US mpg / 41.5 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Mokka is a five-door, five-seater SUV characterized by its bold and distinctive exterior styling. The front fascia features a prominent grille and swept-back headlights, while the body boasts sculpted lines and a contrasting roof color option, a popular styling cue at the time. Inside, the Mokka offers a practical and well-appointed cabin. The interior design prioritized functionality and ease of use. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for a modern vehicle, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags. The rear seats fold down to increase cargo capacity from 362 liters (12.78 cu. ft.) to 1372 liters (48.45 cu. ft.). The Mokka’s relatively compact dimensions – 4278 mm (168.43 in) in length and 1777 mm (69.96 in) in width – make it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Mokka |
| Generation | Mokka |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg / 32.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg / 49.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg / 41.5 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4900 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1850-4900 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14NET, B14NET |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm (2.85 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1843 kg (4063.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 362 l (12.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1372 l (48.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 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 | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 1.4i Turbo ecoTEC Automatic represented a significant step forward for Vauxhall in the competitive SUV market. Its blend of style, practicality, and efficiency made it a popular choice for European buyers, and it helped establish Vauxhall as a key player in the growing crossover segment.
