Vauxhall Mokka (2012) first official pictures

This is the Vauxhall Mokka, a B-segment SUV that will be revealed at the 2012 Geneva motor show this March. 

Err, no. Instead it’s a Vauxhall (and Opel) version of the Buick Encore 4x4 that’s just been revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. And before you scoff, the same architecture is destined for the next-gen Corsa too – it’s not just a British version of some antiquated Yank tank.

At 4.28 metres long, the Mokka is bigger than Nissan’s Juke but shorter than the Qashqai, and will take on everything from the aforementioned Nissans, to Mini’s Countryman and the Skoda Yeti.

There is a choice of three engines: a 113bhp 1.6-litre petrol; a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol with 138bhp and 148lb ft; and a 128bhp/221lb ft 1.7-litre diesel. All are fitted with a stop/start system, the latter two can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, and while four-wheel drive is an option, all models come with hill descent control as standard.

A new bonnet, a revised grille and different bumpers differentiate the Mokka from its America sibling, but it doesn’t have the same stylish good looks as Vauxhall and Opel’s most recent European-focused offerings.

But it does boast swivelling headlights, a rear view camera, and Vauxhall’s new front camera system that enables the Mokka to be optioned with lane departure warning, forward collision alert and traffic sign recognition. Fold the seats and there’s up to 1372 litres of load space, and there’s also the latest version of Flex-Fix, a bicycle carrier that slides out of the rear bumper.

UK sales begin towards the end of 2012, and prices should start around £16k.

By Ben Pulman