The Vauxhall Mokka has been one of the UK's most consistently popular small SUVs since its launch in 2012. Built on platforms shared with various General Motors and Stellantis vehicles, it offers familiar Vauxhall practicality in a higher-riding body style. The Mk2 generation (2020+) is an almost entirely new car — striking design, properly premium interior, and available as a pure electric vehicle (Mokka-e). On the Isle of Wight, both generations are worth considering.
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Mk1 vs Mk2
Mk1 (2012–2020): The original Mokka — built on a GM/Opel platform. 1.4T petrol and 1.6 CDTi diesel were the main engines. Solid, reliable, and now very affordable. The 1.4 Turbo petrol is the pick for IoW use — the diesel has DPF risks for short-trip driving. Available with optional 4WD (though most UK examples were 2WD).
Mk2 (2020–present): A complete redesign on the Peugeot/Citroën CMP platform (Mokka shares this with the Peugeot 2008). The interior quality improvement over the Mk1 is dramatic — comparable to much more expensive cars. Available as:
- 1.2 PureTech petrol (130bhp)
- Mokka-e (electric, 100kW/136bhp, 209-mile WLTP range)
Mokka-e: An Excellent IoW Choice
The electric Mokka-e is genuinely well-suited to the Isle of Wight:
- 209-mile WLTP range means even the longest IoW journey is a tiny fraction of battery capacity
- Home charging at 7.4kW overnight: fully charged by morning
- Rapid charging (100kW) available in Newport and Cowes for occasional top-ups
- Electric motor: instant torque delivery from 0mph — suits 30mph town driving and country lane overtaking
- Near-zero fuel costs for typical island use
The Mokka-e is one of the best value used electric SUVs available — it's less expensive than the MINI Electric (much less space) or the Peugeot e-2008 (same car, effectively) when comparing like for like.
What to Check
Mk1 1.6 CDTi diesel DPF: As with all diesels used primarily on short IoW journeys, the DPF is the main risk. Avoid diesel Mk1s unless the service history shows regular longer runs.
Mk2 1.2 PureTech timing chain: The Stellantis 1.2 PureTech engine shared with Peugeot has had timing chain issues on early builds (2019–2021). Ask specifically about timing chain inspection on these years. Cold-start rattle is the warning sign. Updated engines (late 2021+) are improved.
Mokka-e battery health: A battery health check from Vauxhall or a specialist is worthwhile. Most examples show minimal degradation, but it's worth confirming on any car over 3 years old.
Mk1 corrosion: Check sills and arches on older Mk1 examples, particularly on cars that have spent their life on the island.
Budget Guide
| Budget | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Under £4,000 | Mk1, 2014–2017, 1.4 Turbo petrol |
| £4,000–£8,000 | Mk1 late, 2018–2020, 1.4 Turbo petrol |
| £8,000–£14,000 | Mk2, 2021–2022, 1.2 PureTech petrol |
| £14,000–£22,000 | Mokka-e, 2021+, electric |
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