Crossover cool
Released in late 2022, the latest generation of Opel Mokka was now under the banner of global firm Stellantis, and the influence on the styling and tech offerings had become very apparent. The Mokka was now edgier and had pronounced features that would appeal to a wider audience but that was not all.
Related: Opel Mokka 1.2T GS Line (2022) Quick Review Video
The interior of the Mokka was now packed with standard equipment features, which the once stagnant brand back into contention with its Euro counterparts. With all of these changes being very welcome, has the Opel Mokka become a vehicle suitable for new drivers?
Safety
Apart from the standard-across-the-board safety spec such as 6 airbags, lane keep assist, child locks, rear privacy glass, Isofix, LED headlights, front foglamps and park distance control in the front and rear, GS models have features such as adaptive cruise control that functions between 30 km/h and 180 km/h, high beam assist, matrix headlamps, and automatic emergency braking
10 Best used cars for new drivers
Infotainment
is filled to the brim with features for everyday user-friendliness. In the GS Line, the driver's seat is 6-way adjustable and this derivative gets a full leather interior. The driver's seat even has a massaging function.The 10-inch Itellilink colour touchscreen in the GS Line is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and gets built-in satnav as standard. The quality from the sound system is rather good too - teamed with the well-insulated cabin, listening to your favourite tunes as you drive is a real joy, even when you're out on the highway.
New vs old Opel Mokka: What are the top 3 differences?
Space and convenience
The large central touchscreen, angled towards the driver's viewpoint and digital cluster along with glossy black details along the centre console look slick and the graphics are crisp and clear. Front passengers can take turns charging their phones wirelessly on the charging pad below the air-conditioning controls. While there's plenty of space up front, the rear passengers don't have major legroom, and that's why it's really better suited to very small families. The central rear seat is raised slightly so three kiddos will be able to fit in side by side, but the rear windows curve upwards so outward visibility isn't fantastic. The boot, at 310 litres, is a bit on the tight side too, so don't expect the Mokka to fulfil any camping car/carpooling duties.
Which Opel Mokka trim holds its value better?
Performance
The turbocharged, 1.2-litre Puretech engine (96kW) which is also found in an array of other Stellantis products, is a little gem. First off, you have that cheeky growl from the 3-cylinder engine, and when you 'put foot', as they call it, the powerplant springs to life. The front-wheel-driven Mokka clings to the tarmac around corners and is a nimble and fleet-footed little thing, and sportier to drive than you'd imagine.The Mokka will sprint from 0 - 100 km in under 10 seconds (9.2 to be exact).
Haval Jolion S vs Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S vs Opel Mokka: Here's our winner
Cost of Ownership
The Mokka's fuel economy varied from 6.4 litres per 100 km on the highway to 8 l/100 km in the "city" so keeping that Eco setting activated in town is a must. Initial purchase price is a steep R527 900, rather pricey for a small city crossover. It is sold with 5 year / 100 000km warranty and a 4 year/ 60 000km service plan with service intervals of 15 000km so you wont have to worry too much about maintenance costs.
Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Seltos vs Opel Mokka: Which one is the best value for money?
Verdict
The Opel Mokka is a cracking car that is very well-equipped to help a new driver navigate the challenges of our roads. It is safe and offers some Euro-chic styling and tech that will make the drive that much more enjoyable. It is on the pricey side, but if budget is not an option, then the Mokka will make a brilliant vehicle for a new driver. It's compact and easy enough to manoeuvre in small parking lots and sends a message to those on the outside that the driver is just cool. If you are looking to put a new driver behind the wheel but need to sell an older car why not try AutoTraders Sell My Car here
