Buick isn’t the only one getting a small crossover; Opel is in fact getting an almost exact copy. Photos and details have been released for the Opel Mokka (a Vauxhall in the UK) small crossover, which is to the European market what the Buick Encore is to the North American market. And, yes, the name “Mokka” was inspired by the small, round coffee beans that help us get our days started.
The Opel Mokka uses the same platform as the Chevrolet Aveo and Opel Corsa and, as a result, is very compact. It measures just 4.28 meters long — about the size of a Nissan Juke — and provides up to 1,372 liter of loading space. The interior wears Opel’s latest design theme and offers up to 19 storage locations.
Like the Encore, the European crossover will be offered in both front- and all-wheel drive versions. But whereas the Buick only offers one engine choice, the Mokka offers a whole range, consisting of a 140 horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec, a 115-HP 1.6 liter naturally-aspirated gasoline engine and a 1.7-liter turbo diesel that produces 130-HP and a healthy 221 lb-ft. (300Nm) of peak torque. The latter two engines can be had with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearboxes. Models equipped with a manual feature a stop-start fuel-saving system. Other standard features include Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.
The Opel Mokka is relatively cute in appearance, although its technological features might suggest otherwise. An available Flex-Fix bicycle carrier that functions like a drawer and that can accommodate up to three bicycles is likely aimed at catching the eye of the outdoorsy individuals that might otherwise overlook the small crossover.
European sales of the Opel and Vauxhall Mokka will begin at the end of 2012.
