Opel Mokka, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Opel Mokka, 2013

The all-new Opel Mokka has captured the hearts of its customers. During the first 4 months that it has been available more than 40,000 orders were received for the SUV throughout Europe. Demand has been particularly strong in Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, France and Russia. With the Mokka Opel is the first German manufacturer to enter the rapidly growing segment of sub-compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV-B segment). The 1.6 liter ecoFLEX entry level Opel Mokka variant with 85 kw/115 hp can be ordered from 18,990 euro (Germany, including VAT). In addition, a turbocharged gasoline unit offering 103 kW/140 hp of output and a diesel 1.7 liter engine variant with 96 kW/130 hp are included in the Mokka's powertrain line-up.

"Now that we have the Mokka, a new chapter in our product offensive has begun. Our successful order intake shows that the Mokka is spot on. Its technologies, dynamic and bold design appeals to the taste of our customers. It sets new standards in its segment," says Opel Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alfred E. Rieck.

Despite its 4.28 meter measurement, the Opel Mokka generously accommodates five people in a commanding position. It also delivers on Opel's promise to combine attractive design with innovative technologies and upmarket functionalities, making them accessible to a wider segment of customers. Furthermore, the Opel Mokka introduces ergonomic seating for the first time to the sub-compact SUV market as well as adaptive forward lighting (AFL+) and the integrated FlexFix bike carrier. Drive and comfort enhancing features and technologies include the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and across all Mokka versions the Traction Control (TC) as well as the Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) systems. Apart from front-wheel drive (FWD), the Mokka can be fitted with an intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD). The optional AWD technology recognizes automatically when traction is needed on all four wheels and ensures that it is provided at a maximum level when necessary.

Front or All-Wheel Drive: dynamic driving for active lifestyles
The Opel Mokka blends functionality and a comfortable, high seating position with a flavor of adventure. One of the main focal points of the Mokka's development was the chassis which was designed and fine-tuned in Germany. The Mokka chassis has been tailored to the daily needs of European customers and is also very suitable for off-road conditions.

Apart from front-wheel drive (FWD), the Opel Mokka can be fitted with an all-wheel drive (AWD) technology for better traction and handling. The AWD technology is efficient, clever and affordable. The main components of the AWD system are the front axle differential, the cardan shaft, the 4x4 rear axle drive and the control module as well as the electro­ magnetic multi-plate clutch. In addition sensors constantly supply the control modules with data. When the road surface is dry, the front wheels drive the vehicle forward which means that fuel consumption is kept low. Depending on the road conditions the range varies from 100 percent front-wheel drive to a maximum distribution of torque of 50 percent on the front and rear axle, for example when the roads are covered in a thick film of water. When requires it, the electronic torque transfer device (TTD) automatically and seamlessly sends torque to the rear wheels. The AWD system further sharpens the already agile handling characteristics of the Mokka. This especially noticeable when the car has to take off quickly or negotiates corners at higher speeds. It is activated automatically within a fraction of a second as soon as there is wheel slip due to a lack of traction. The system also realizes when no AWD is required. It offers even better handling performance in bends and provides maximum traction in those situations. The AWD system with all its components only weighs 65 kilograms so that the car remains efficient and environmentally friendly.

The Mokka chassis ensures maximum ride comfort and handling performance, even in difficult road conditions. To achieve this Opel engineers further developed tried and tested MacPerson struts on the front axle. Side load springs were added to compensate the lateral forces. Dual path strut mounts, strong stabilizers and double bonded handling bushings were also applied to improve handing and performance on the road as well as noise and vibration reduction. On the rear suspension, the Opel engineering team included a U-section tubular shaped torsion beam ahead of the wheels.

In addition, to get the most out of the vehicle chassis, the Opel engineers opted for state of the art Electric Power Steering (EPS) which is standard kit throughout Europe and provides more speed sensitive steering assist with great responsiveness.

Agile and efficient - two gasoline and one diesel engine
Power is provided by three efficient engines. All manual transmissions are equipped with the fuel saving Opel Start/Stop system. The gasoline offer comprises an 85 kW/115 hp, 1.6 liter naturally-aspirated engine with 155 Nm torque that uses 6.5 liters of fuel on 100 kilometers and emits 153 g/km CO2 and a 103 kW/140 hp 1.4 l Turbo with 200 Nm of torque. The 1.4 Turbo will initially be available with the same manual transmission but later on also with automatic transmission. The manual six-speed 4x4 turbocharged Opel Mokka reaches a top speed of 190 km/h. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h can be achieved in 9.9 seconds. The fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 6.4 l/100 km, equivalent to 149 g/km CO2.

Customers who prefer diesel engines can order the Mokka with a 1.7 liter turbocharged CDTI unit with 96 kW/I30 hp and maximum torque of 300 Nm. This engine unit is available with six-speed manual plus front or all-wheel drive, or as a six-speed automatic with front­ wheel drive. As an FWD with a manual gear box the diesel unit only needs 4.5 liters of fuel in the combined cycle per 100 kilometers. This is equivalent to 120 g/km CO2. The 1.7 CDTI is thus one of the most fuel efficient vehicles of its segment. The performance figures speak for themselves: with a six-speed manual gear box and front-wheel drive the Mokka achieves a top speed of 187 km/h. A sprint from standstill to 100 km/h only takes 10.5 seconds.

Key driving assistance systems with exclusive safety and comfort features

With the all-new Opel Mokka SUV, Opel is for the first time bringing its wealth of unique, German-engineered driving assistance systems to the sub-compact SUV segment. Technologies that enhance both safety and comfort and are exclusive to Opel are now being made available to a wider segment of customers. They include sophisticated Electronic Stability Program (ESP®Plus) with Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) for a more comfortable drive in hill terrain. The traction control which is standard across all Mokka versions acts like a limited slip differential. It prevents wheel spin and supports the all-wheel drive system of the Mokka with special algorithms to enhance the car's handling.

Another key driver assistance system that is available in the Mokka is Opel's Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) which is based on third generation bi-xenon headlamps. It adapts its intensity and range for best possible illumination of urban and country roads as well as highways. Its functions include adverse weather light, increased high beam, static bending light, dynamic bending light, daytime running light with LED and High Beam Assist. The latter adjusts the high beams automatically so that following or oncoming traffic is not dazzled.

The second generation Opel Eye front camera provides the basis for the Forward Collision Alert (FCA), Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The Forward Collision Alert (FCA) warns the driver with a loud alarm as well as a visual warning if a collision with the preceding vehicle is imminent. Apart from the Lane Departure Warning that alerts drivers when they unintentionally stray out of their lane, engineers also further developed the Traffic Sign Recognition system. Apart from round road signs that new front camera now also recognizes rectangular signs for motorways or play areas on street as well as any other speed-related restrictions. The camera can also pick up dynamic LED displays. In that respect it helps to prevent contraventions of road traffic regulations or accidents caused by tiredness. Parking is now made easier thanks to a rear view camera with its parking sensors at the front and the rear.

Healthy and comfortable: ergonomic AGR seats and FlexFix bike carrier system
The Opel Mokka can be equipped with ergonomic seats that have been certified by the independent healthy back experts AGR ("Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V."). The 8-way adjustable driver seat is the first time AGR has approved a seat in the SUV-B segment with its seal. The seat had to meet a list of ten criteria including four-way lordosis support and that the seatback contours had to adapt exactly to the natural curvature of the spine. In addition, the ergonomic seat offers many additional adjustments such as tilting, extra lumbar support and thigh extension. The head-rests are four-way adjustable.

The loading capacity of the Opel Mokka can be expanded with the second generation FlexFix bike carrier system. The optionally available enhanced storage system exclusive to Opel is integrated in the rear bumper of the vehicle and is always on board. The standard version of the FlexFix system when mounted on the Mokka is geared towards carrying one bicycle of up to 30 kg. Thanks to a clip-on adaptor a further two bicycles can be transported which increases the total load capacity up to 60 kilograms. Even when fully loaded, the FlexFix system can be tilted so that the tailgate of the vehicle can be opened easily, providing quick access to the Mokka's luggage compartment. In addition, the rear bench of the Opel Mokka can be folded down in a 60-40 ratio so that an additional flat loading bay area is created. With all of these elements the Mokka is the perfect solution for people with active lifestyles and high standards.

Bold SUV design combined with refined functionality
The new Opel SUV reflects the traditional strengths of the brand: driving dynamics, flexibility for everyday life and emotional design. With the Mokka, Opel's design philosophy of blending "sculptural artistry with German precision" finds a new expression in a compact SUV. The Opel Mokka displays a bold attitude with sculpted and elegant traits while retaining a sporty edge with muscular and athletic body lines. The pronounced front grille, the protective cladding around the bumpers and wheel arches are energized by Opel's typical "blade" on the bodyside that sweeps upwards to the rear. The Mokka's sporty and muscular build is also re-enforced by its higher ground clearance which also makes it suitable for gravel roads, as well as its tread width of 1,540 mm.

The interior of the new Opel Mokka is also typical for Opel. Sculptural design cues are captured through the Opel brand signature wing-shaped instrument panel and also in the artfully sculpted surfaces in the doors. Characteristic Opel values such as versatility and user-friendly functionality are also visible: from the dual glove box configuration of the instrument panel, the closed storage in the tunnel console to the deep lower pockets in both the front and rear doors. With up to 1,372 liter of loading space and up to 19 storage locations including side pockets at the front that can store 1.5 liter bottles, the functional needs of families have been clearly accounted for.

Thus the Opel Mokka fulfills all the requirements of everyday life and is just as suitable for weekend pursuits. As a sub-compact SUV it is just as at home in urban as in suburban environments. Research has shown that the typical Mokka customer is middle aged and leads a very active lifestyle where leisure activities play a central role in his or her life. That is why the Mokka with its many optional extras and Opel exclusive technologies like the Opel Eye front camera or the FlexFix bicycle carrier is perfect for people who want to balance their busy daily lives with leisure activities. With all these qualities and its groundbreaking SUV appearance, the Opel Mokka is highly appealing for new customers.

Bold SUV appearance with strong Opel design DNA
With the all-new Mokka SUV, Opel's design philosophy of blending "sculptural artistry with German precision" finds a new expression in the sub-compact SUV segment. The Opel Mokka displays a bold attitude in a tight package with sculpted and elegant traits while retaining a sporty edge with well-defined body lines. Overall the SUV has a very solid look and maintains a good muscular stance on the road. These elements are combined with iconic design cues typical for Opel.

Viewed from the front, the Mokka is full of self-confidence without being aggressive. A pronounced and dominant front grille with a neatly tailored trademark chrome bar featuring the Opel lightning logo at its center is framed by a pair of iconic Opel headlamps. They contain the Opel typical wing shaped LED signature of the daytime running lights.

The Opel Mokka's hood has several creases and a power dome-like feature in the center. This is another design cue that adds to the SUV's bold appearance. At the front, the skirting around the bumpers and solid looking fog lamps emphasize the SUV traits of the Mokka. Protective cladding around the bumpers and wheel arches are energized by Opel's typical "blade" light catcher on the body side that sweeps upwards to the rear. The fluid design execution creates flowing and dynamic look. Upper trim levels benefit from chrome window inserts as well as door handles adding an extra upmarket touch.

At the rear, the Mokka has skid plate in polished aluminum finish, displaying its SUV credentials in a stylish way. The rear window with its fluid shape is combined with a spoiler at the end of the roof and distinctly shaped tail lights that have defined edges. All of these elements underscore the sporty and dynamic nature of the Mokka. However, they also help to enhance the aerodynamics of the vehicle. Roof rack panels emphasize the almost coupé-like roofline of the Mokka, adding to its unique appearance. Another outstanding element in its segment is the Opel exclusive FlexFix bike carrier system that is fully integrated and always on board. When not in use it is stored in the rear bumper, so that the Mokka's design can be fully appreciated.

"The Mokka is very different to its competitors: it is small in size but big in attitude," says Lead Design Director Opel Design, Malcolm Ward. "We are proud that we managed to develop a car that is perfectly designed for the urban environment while retaining typical SUV traits."

There is a broad offer of ten exterior paints including solid, metallic and three-coat premium colors. On the solid side, customers can choose from Summit White and Royal Blue. Metallic colors available include Sovereign Silver, Carbon Flash, Borocay Blue, Velvet Red, Satin Steel Grey, Misty Lake and Deep Espresso Brown. Those who wish to opt for a three-coat premium color can do so when they order the Snowflake White exterior color.

Robust wheel design for a bold SUV
The Opel Mokka's strong character is also reinforced by its off-road capability, while its 1540 mm wide tracks reinforce its muscular stance. Its looks are further enhanced by 18" alloy wheels (type 215/55 R 18) which are standard in the Enjoy and Cosmo trim levels. In this size, the wheels make a strong statement and underscore the Mokka's robust appearance. No other manufacturer in the SUV-B segment offers the 18" wheels as standard in upper trim levels. Classic five spoke wheel design that is sporty and has a rugged feel conveys typical SUV values. Nineteen inch wheels will be added to the list of possible options later on.

Roomy interior layout
In the interior, the new Mokka also reflects Opel's typical sculptural design DNA which is captured through the signature wing-shaped instrument panel that wraps around the door inserts and the artfully sculpted surfaces in the doors.

Although the Mokka is small on the outside, the interior comes across as belonging to a much larger upmarket vehicle. Such components and finish, subtle fine chrome accents that are sensitively surfaced all add to the high quality feel. For example, center chrome rings and chrome dividers give a technical, modern impression.

Typical Opel values such as versatility and user-friendly functionality are also visible: from the dual glove box configuration of the instrument panel, the closed storage in the tunnel console to the deep lower pockets in both the front and rear doors. Many of the 19 storage spaces have been designed with active families in mind, such as the cleverly concealed armrest in the rear bench that also contains a cup holder or the storage areas in front and behind the gear shifter. With up to 1,372 liter of loading space and a cleverly designed hat shelf in the trunk which can be easily adjusted by hand, the Mokka offers many useful storage solutions. In addition, the rear bench can be split and folded in a 60:40 ratio providng even more flexible loading and transportation.

The Mokka is very much a driver's car with excellent ergonomics and comfort. This is reflected in a high seating position, a great all-round view out the vehicle as well as optional AGR certified seats ("Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V."). Another driver-friendly feature are the simple and precise chronograph-like graphics in the instrument panel.

A touch of style and elegance is brought to the Opel Mokka in its upper "Cosmo" trim levels where embossed seat fabrics and high quality two-tone colored stitching can be found throughout the cabin, underscoring its refinement. Leather like "Moroccana" seat bolsters are provided either in Jet Black/Dark Galvanized combinations or in the new brown Cocoa/ Saddle Up fabric. The instrument panel and doors décor is covered in a striking tungsten brush (Jet Black seats) or sephia bronze film (Cocoa seats). For an even more luxurious atmosphere, customers can opt for black or the brown Cocoa/Saddle Up leather seats.

In the entry to mid trim levels "Essentia" and "Enjoy", customers benefit from high quality woven Jet Black cloth or Cocoa / Dark Adriatic seat fabrics (depending on trim), soft seat inserts, liquid platinum instrument panel and door décor moldings and chrome door release handles. All of these features give the Mokka a functional and comfortable environment.

Efficient engines, clever all-wheel drive technology and dynamic handling
An intelligent chassis system in combination with front wheel or adaptive all-wheel drive technology and electronic safety features mainly to be found in upper vehicle segments ensure that the handling of the all-new Opel Mokka remains dynamic and the ride comfort is high. The SUV sets new standards in its segment with its combination of modern gasoline and diesel engines as well as automatic and manual transmissions. With the Mokka, Opel is expanding its product portfolio and is the first German car maker to enter the growing sub-compact SUV segment.

Chassis is "Made in Germany"

One of the main focal points of the Mokka's development was the chassis which was developed in Germany. The Opel Mokka chassis has been tailored to the daily needs of European customers for use in and outside of urban areas. In addition, the Mokka chassis is suitable for off-road conditions. The new SUV is also offered with an all-wheel-drive system (AWD) for best possible handling and traction even with difficult road conditions. Both variants perform to the high standard that Opel customers expect. To ensure that these standards are fulfilled, optimizations and validation drives were carried out for the individual sales markets of the Mokka. The Mokka has achieved a level of driving dynamics that is unparalleled in its segment. The tailor-made Mokka chassis adjusts to the prevalent driving conditions, while always delivering precise and responsive steering. Due to the particularly rigid chassis architecture and robust skid plates, a wheelbase of 2,555 millimeters and a tread width at the front and rear of 1,540 millimeters, the Opel Mokka has a solid stance on the road.

Maximum ride and handling comfort with intelligent chassis construction
The Mokka chassis ensures maximum ride comfort and handling performance, even in difficult road conditions. To achieve this Opel engineers further developed tried and tested MacPerson struts on the front axle. Side load springs were added to compensate the lateral forces. Dual path strut mounts, strong stabilisers and double bonded handling bushings were also applied to improve handling and performance on the road as well as noise and vibration reduction. Damper and spring rates were sharpened in line with the characteristic of the Mokka chassis. 18" alloy wheels complete with 215/55 R 18 tires are a standard features of the Mokka Enjoy and Cosmo trim levels.

On the rear suspension, the Opel engineering team included a U-section tubular shaped torsion beam ahead of the wheels. This compound crank axle is developed with two different designs to fit the AWD and FWD variants. That allows drivers to experience best possible handling and body control for every powertrain. The dampers which are fixed behind the rear wheels ensure a good damper rate as well as an efficient damping performance. This ultimately means better handling and even more precise steering. It gives the driver the best possible driving characteristics and control over the vehicle. Thanks to the compact rear axle architecture, the Opel Mokka feels particularly agile. Mini-block spring coils for the all-wheel drive variant ensure that the dampers can rebound even when fully loaded. In all the powertrain variants the Mokka can tow a payload of up to 1,200 kilograms.

Adaptive AWD technology with variable torque distribution for maximum traction
The all-wheel drive (AWD) system of the Mokka is efficient, intelligent and affordable for a broad segment of customers. The main components of the AWD system are the front axle differential, the cardan shaft, the 4x4 rear axle drive and the control module as well as the electro-magnetic multi-plate clutch. In addition sensors constantly supply the control modules with data such as the yaw rate, the lateral and longitudinal acceleration, the steering angle, the wheel speed, the accelerator pedal position, engine revs and torque. Under normal conditions, for example when the road surface is dry, the front wheels drive the vehicle forwards which means that fuel consumption is kept low. Depending on the road conditions, the range varies from 100 percent front-wheel drive to a maximum distribution of torque of 50 percent on the front and rear axle, for example when the roads are covered in a thick film of water or a lot of snow. When traction requires it, the electronic torque transfer device (TTD) automatically and seamlessly sends torque to the rear wheels. The AWD system further sharpens the already agile handling characteristics of the Mokka. This especially noticeable when the car has to take off quickly or negotiates corners at higher speeds. It is activated automatically within a fraction of a second as soon as there is wheel slip due to a lack of traction. The system also realizes when no AWD is required. It offers even better handling performance in bends and provides maximum traction in those situations. The AWD system with all its components only weighs 65 kilograms so that the car remains efficient and environmentally friendly.

Exclusive safety technologies
Ventilated brake discs measuring 300 mm at the front and 268 mm at the rear ensure high heat resistance and there is high brake performance in any drive situation. This was tried and tested under extreme conditions on the northern loop of the Nürburgring race track, in the Alps, other proving grounds and conventional roads. The brake discs are further supported by anti-lock braking (ABS) complete with cornering brake control and brake assist system as well as Electronic Brake force Distribution. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®Plus) includes traction control and additionally Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). The latter ensures that the speed is maintained when descending demanding hills with low friction, gravel or other difficult surfaces. It allows the driver to choose a suitable vehicle speed range from 5km/h to 20 km/h. The Hill Start Assist allows the car to take off and park more easily on a hill without the vehicle rolling backwards. In addition, to get the most out of the vehicle chassis, the Opel engineers opted for state-of-the art Electric Power Steering (EPS) which is standard in all Mokka SUVs across Europe. The EPS system benefits from a precise wear adjustment system that has been optimized to fit the steering gear and reduces friction. The Opel Mokka EPS system provides more speed sensitive steering assist with great responsiveness and at the same time offers lower fuel consumption than a hydraulic system. The steering column can be adjusted in its height and length. It allows the driver to find his or her ideal seating position.

Agile and efficient gasoline and diesel engines
Power is provided by three efficient engines. All manual transmissions are equipped with the fuel saving Opel Start/Stop system. Two gasoline engines are available. The first one is a 1.6 liter naturally aspirated engine with a five-speed manual transmission, 85 kW/115 hp (6.5 l/100 km, CO2 153 g/km) and 155 Nm torque (at 4,000 rpm). The second one is a 103 kW/140 hp 1.4 l Turbo (6.4l/100 km, CO2 149 g/km), with AWD as standard, which delivers 200 Nm of torque (at between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm). The 1.4 liter turbocharged engine with an alloy cylinder head and maintenance-free valve operation is initially offered with a six-speed manual transmission. Later it will also be made available with a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual six-speed 4x4 turbocharged Mokka reaches a top speed of 190 km/h. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h can be achieved in 9.9 seconds.

The turbocharged four-cylinder possesses an electronic engine control unit for even more precise combustion control as well as friction optimized components. Dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing drive the four valves per cylinder. A variable-flow oil pump supplies the engine with the necessary lubrication. Another fuel saving element is the electronically controlled thermostat that ensures best possible thermal management of the engine unit. When operating at full capacity it cools the engine, while during partial load operation it maintains an elevated temperature.

Customers who prefer diesel engines can order the Mokka with a 1.7 liter turbocharged CDTI unit with 96 kW/130 hp and maximum torque of 300 Nm (at between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm). This engine unit is available with six-speed manual plus front or all-wheel drive, or as a six-speed automatic with front-wheel drive. As an FWD with a manual gear box the diesel unit only needs 4.5 liters of fuel in the combined cycle per 100 kilometers. This is equivalent to 120 g/km CO2. The 1.7 CDTI is thus one of the most fuel efficient vehicles of its segment. The performance figures speak for themselves: with a six-speed manual gear box and front-wheel drive the Mokka achieves a top speed of 187 km/h. A sprint from standstill to 100 km/h only takes 10.5 seconds.

A common rail system of the third generation operates with injection pressures of up to 1,800 bar. Solenoid controlled injectors ensure very precise combustion control.

Comfort-orientated and economical - new transmission generation
The main focus of the development of the second generation six-speed automatic transmission are apart from increased efficiency (fuel consumption has been reduced by six percent compared to the predecessor), the reduction of shift times as well as noise/vibration reduction. Thanks to a small torque converter, the Opel engineers were able to reduce inertia. Optimized bearings, joint rings and friction elements also ensure a higher degree of effectiveness. A further key feature is the coil spring inside the torque converter. The spring rate was halved which improved the damping of vibrations.

Manual gear changes can be carried out with the six-speed automatic thanks to the ActiveSelect function. The gear shifts can thus be made at the touch of a button on a lever. The adaptive electronic transmission control comprises a multitude of intelligent functions: the automatic idling helps to save gasoline. This function maintains the oil pressure at an optimum level during the first forward drive clutch movement. This is made possible by sensors and regulating devices that are variable depending on the engine speed and other data. Lower loads for the axle shafts and engine supports reduce the noise level. The hill program varies the electronic gear shifting parameters depending on the gradient of ascent or descent.

The latest generation of Opel manual transmissions enables even more precise and smoother gear shifting. The engineers achieved shorter shift paths while at the same time reducing shift forces. To achieve this, the six-speed manual transmission was comprehensively reworked with modifications on the shift mechanism. These measures focused on increased efficiency and further improve precision, shift forces and comfort, while operating in cold and hot conditions. A recommendation to shift up that is shown in the form of a red arrow in the central instrument display, helps with driving with low rpms and thus also helps to save fuel and minimize CO2 emissions.

Opel Mokka to conquer Europe's fastest growing car segment
With the launch of the all-new Mokka, Opel is the first German car maker to enter Europe's fastest growing vehicle category - the sub-compact SUV segment (SUV-B segment). While many other segments in the car industry are showing limited growth, this segment's volume has grown by an impressive seven percent (1st half 2011 vs. 1st half 2012), although the entire European automotive market has shrunk. Apart from the high sales potential this growing market poses for Opel, it is also a natural environment for the brand. Key characteristics of the Mokka such as emotional design, everyday versatility and driving dynamics are all traditional pillars of the Opel brand. With more than 40,000 orders already received, Opel is confident that the Mokka will become one of the top-sellers in this high growth segment. An entry price of 18,990 euro (Germany, including VAT) makes it a highly competitive player.

"We expect the Mokka to perform extremely well in this high potential segment. It is just one component in our refreshed and expanded product portfolio which will also include the fashionable ADAM and the elegant Cascada convertible," says Opel Vice President Sales, Marketing and After Sales, Alfred E. Rieck. "The Mokka's powerful design plus its emotional appeal to many customers who aspire to the prestige an SUV has to offer, will make it a very popular choice with customers."

The sub-compact SUV segment, home to the all-new Opel Mokka, has a large share within overall SUV sales in Europe. Around 2.6 million SUVs were sold last year of which more than 18 percent belong to the sub-compact SUV segment. It is therefore the second largest SUV sub-group after the SUV C segment. All sub-compact SUVs share the characteristic that they fall under the 4.30 meter length mark, which helps to distinguish them from their larger counterparts.

Growth potential across Europe
Germany, Russia, Italy, France and the UK are expected to account for more than half of all Mokka sales in Europe. Especially, Russia with its harsh winter weather and difficult roads conditions has a large demand for SUVs.

Just over half of all Mokka customers are expected to opt for the front-wheel drive variant. Many of those favoring FWD tend to be people living in countries where there are tax incentives for very low CO2 emissions, while those opting for AWD often reside in countries with harsh climates.

On the engine side, the majority of sales are expected to be generated by the 1.7 CDTI diesel offer, while the 1.4 l turbocharged gasoline is predicted to account for around a third and the entry level 1.6 l gasoline unit will make up the smallest proportion.

Customers with active lifestyles
Customers who opt for the Mokka are making a conscious decision in favor of a sub-compact SUV model rather than a larger SUV. This means that they are choosing a car that is just the right size for urban environments, while also balancing the need to engage in everyday activities with weekend pursuits. Research has shown that the typical Opel Mokka customer is middle aged and leads a very active lifestyle where leisure activities play a central role in his or her life. That is why the Mokka with its many optional extras like the FlexFix bicycle carrier is perfect for people who want to balance their busy daily lives with leisure activities.

Potential customers are also known to be technology-orientated people who appreciate Opel's cutting edge onboard technologies with the offer of many Opel exclusive assistance systems, safety and comfort features high up on their agenda. The Mokka provides many technologies that are unique in the segment such as optional ergonomic AGR certified premium seats, several Opel Eye front camera functions and Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+). For example, almost half of all customers opting for the Mokka's Enjoy trim level are expected to choose the electronic climate control. According to orders received so far, there is a high expected demand for option packs which combine several safety and comfort feature into one package, offering attractive savings to customers.

Typically the majority of SUV-B customers (75%) are private buyers, while the rest are likely to be fleet and business customers. The Opel Mokka will attract customers who are new to the brand.

Established SUV tradition at Opel
Opel is not new to the SUV market and has established a successful track record in this segment over the past two decades. In 1991, Opel launched the all-wheel drive Frontera off-roader. It was the first European combined off-roader and SUV type of car. A year later, the Opel Monterey followed which was a mid-size pure off-road vehicle. After a brief absence from the SUV market, Opel returned in 2006 with the Antara. The sporty crossover was updated in 2011 with a comprehensively refreshed appearance and powertrain line-up. With the sales debut of the Opel Mokka in the fall of 2012, Opel customers are now able to choose from two attractive offers in the SUV segment.