Sprint Review: 2022 Opel Mokka 1.2T

Will this depressing fad of dipping everything in black never end…?

You should know: The Opel Mokka is now in its second generation, after the previous edition ran from 2012 to about 2020. What differentiated the two models is that gen one was a GM-based product while this new version uses a PSA (Peugeot Citroen) platform since the French conglomerate swallowed up Opel in 2019.

More info: That’s good news all around because the slightly conservative Mokka has found a wonderfully quirky but equally solid base on PSA’s common modular platform; shared with the Peugeot 208 and 2008, Citroen C4 as well as the new Opel Corsa.

Why you shouldn’t: My biggest personal gripe is that this striking blue car was being dragged down – way down – by all its depressing black trim. There’s not an inch of chrome or silver on this vehicle, and while I understand that some buyers may like it, the Mokka looks affordable next to its modern rivals.

It looks like a cheap entry-level version with stolen hubcaps.

Why you should: The Mokka shows otherwise crisp design and modern proportions. It’s the right size (and ride height) for a compact front-wheel drive SUV and exhibits the overall quality or handling finesse one would expect from a French/German combination. Fire power is also decent for a 1.2 turbo-petrol triple at 96kW and 230Nm.

Interestingly, this manufacturer went for an 8-speed automatic tranny instead of the usual six-or-so one finds in its competitors. Yes, that means this car shifts more or occasionally gets caught short of its 1750rpm torque peak, but the flipside is excellent average consumption of 6.1L/100km from the 44L fuel tank.

What else? Local Opel dealers give you the choice of two models – this sporty-looking GS Line and a slightly less depressing Elegance model. The specifications levels are sufficiently high from the price range of R470,000 to R520,000 while the warranty lasts three years or 120,000km with a 4-year/60,000km service plan.

FULL SPEC LIST

Engine:1199cc in-line 3-cylinder turbo-petrol
Transmission:8-speed Automatic, FWD
Max. Power:96kW @ 5500rpm
Max. Torque:230Nm @ 1750rpm
Avg. cons.:Claimed 6.1L/100km
0-100km/h:9.33 seconds (claimed 9.2)
Top Speed:Claimed 200km/h
List Price:From R469,900

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