Exploring the Opel Mokka: A Popular Compact SUV with Some Quirks
Compact SUV, highly sought-after and robust, yet slightly cumbersome in handling
Hop on social media and share your thoughts: Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link When it comes to the Opel Mokka, it's a small SUV that has managed to capture the hearts of many. Its mix of options for powertrains keeps things interesting, but there are a few noteworthy issues.
Too many cooks spoil the broth? Not quite when it comes to this little Opel SUV. Despite using components, materials, and technology from various brands under its hood and shared origins with other models, Opel has somehow created a cohesive and attractive vehicle, according to the "Auto Bild TÜV-Report 2025".
Background
The Mokka debuted in 2012, built on a platform from former parent company General Motors (GM). The Chevrolet Trax and Buick Encore served as its closest relatives, respectively twins. The first model generation, renamed Mokka X after a facelift in 2016, was replaced in sales in 2021 by the significantly smaller successor Mokka B, which belongs to the Stellantis group.
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The most recent update to the Mokka occurred in 2024, primarily focusing on engine modifications. The Mokka Electric, which is not covered in this discussion, also received a new engine during this update.
The Mokka's infotainment system features a familiar voice model. As the ADAC notes, "ChatGPT now answers questions and can be activated via the command 'Hey Opel'," writes the ADAC. Externally, the latest Mokka features only the new Opel logo on the front and LED light signatures to differentiate it from its predecessor.
Dimensions (according to ADAC)
- Mokka A: 4.28 m x 1.78 m x 1.66 m (L x W x H), trunk volume: 356 to 1372 l.
- Mokka B: 4.15 m x 1.79 m x 1.53 m (L x W x H), trunk volume: 350 to 1105 l (Mokka Electric: 310 to 1060 l).
Body and Variants
Despite having a consistent basic structure, the powertrain option is essential. However, only the initial Mokka was equipped with all-wheel drive upon request, but don't expect any real off-road capabilities from it, according to the TÜV report. The Mokka remains a five-seater with a relatively high body; there are no variants available.
Strengths
The Opel Mokka has managed to find a loyal customer base, as evidenced by its sales figures. The TÜV report applauds the brake components, noting, "Very solid across all model years." The brake lines and brake discs receive high praise. Rust on the chassis is nonexistent, and the Mokka generally navigates the exhaust gas test without issues.
Weaknesses
The main issue lies with oil leaks from the engine and transmission affecting all model years. In the second and third mandatory inspections, starting at a vehicle age of five years, the exhaust systems often show signs of wear.
Reliability
The ADAC breakdown statistics paint a mixed picture. Models from 2013 and 2020 achieve good rankings, while Mokkas from the first registration years 2014 to 2018 are rated as having "average reliability" by the club, and those from 2019 have a "high breakdown frequency".
Engines
Mokka A
- Petrol (Four-cylinder with all-wheel and front-wheel drive): 85 kW/115 PS to 112 kW/152 PS
- Diesel (Four-cylinder with all-wheel and front-wheel drive): 81 kW/110 PS to 100 kW/136 PS
- Autogas: From 2013, the 1.4-liter turbo with 103 kW/140 PS was also built as an LPG version
Mokka B
- Petrol (Three-cylinder with front-wheel drive): 74 kW/100 PS to 100 kW/136 PS
- Diesel (Four-cylinder with front-wheel drive): 81 kW/110 PS
Market Prices (according to "DAT Market Monitor" of the German Automobile Trust with statistically expected kilometers)
- Mokka Edition 1.5 Turbo ecoFlex 4x4 (6/2016); 103 kW/140 PS (Four-cylinder); 96,000 kilometers; 10,345 euros
- Mokka X 1.6 D Ultimate Start/Stop (6/2018); 110 kW/136 PS (Four-cylinder); 94,000 kilometers; 14,225 euros
- Mokka 1.2 Turbo Basis (6/2021); 74 kW/101 PS (Three-cylinder); 45,000 kilometers; 12,616 euros
Source: ntv.de
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- When considering other vehicles, not motorised, the Opel Mokka stands out as a cohesive and attractive SUV, despite sharing parts and technology with various brands, as reported by the "Auto Bild TÜV-Report 2025."
- The latest Opel Mokka, especially when equipped with a three-cylinder petrol engine, can be a viable option for a compact SUV, but be aware that it lacks all-wheel drive for real off-road capabilities.
- While the Opel Mokka has managed to find a dedicated customer base and boasts solid brakes, its reliability rankings are considered average by the ADAC, with a higher breakdown frequency in certain model years and issues such as oil leaks from the engine and transmission.
