Vauxhall Mokka Engine Size: A Complete, Real-World Guide

Choosing the right engine size isn’t just about numbers on a spec sheet. It’s about how the car feels on a cold Monday morning, how confidently it pulls onto a motorway, and how gently it treats your wallet over time. When it comes to the Vauxhall Mokka, engine size plays a starring role in shaping the driving experience.

We’ve lived with this car, driven it across towns, dual carriageways, and winding back roads, and in this guide, we’re breaking down every Vauxhall Mokka engine size, what it really means, and who each option suits best.

Why Engine Size Still Matters in the Modern Mokka

Engine size might sound old-school in a world of turbochargers and electric motors, but it still sets the tone.

A smaller engine usually means:

• Better fuel efficiency
• Lower insurance costs
• Cheaper road tax

A larger engine tends to deliver:

• Stronger acceleration
• Easier overtaking
• Better towing ability

The Mokka sits right in the middle of this debate, offering compact engines with surprisingly big personalities.

Vauxhall Mokka Generations and Engine Evolution

First-Generation Mokka (2012–2019)

This was the chunky, rugged Mokka that introduced the model to UK roads. It leaned more towards traditional engine sizes.

Second-Generation Mokka (2020–Present)

Slimmer, sharper, and far more modern, the newer Mokka downsized its engines but boosted performance with turbocharging and electrification.

Petrol Engine Sizes in the Vauxhall Mokka

1.2-Litre Turbo Petrol Engine

This is the most common petrol engine in the modern Mokka lineup—and for good reason.

Key Characteristics

• Engine size: 1.2 litres
• Cylinders: 3
• Turbocharged: Yes

Despite its modest size, this engine punches above its weight.

Power Outputs

• 100 PS
• 130 PS

The difference between the two isn’t subtle. The 130 PS version feels noticeably more confident on faster roads.

How the 1.2 Petrol Feels on the Road

This engine feels like a well-trained sprinter rather than a bodybuilder. It doesn’t roar—it responds.

• Light throttle = smooth city driving
• Mid-range pull = effortless overtakes
• Motorway cruising = calm and composed

For most drivers, this is the sweet spot of the Mokka range.

Diesel Engine Sizes in the Vauxhall Mokka

1.5-Litre Diesel Engine

Diesel fans weren’t forgotten, especially in the earlier and early second-gen models.

Key Specs

• Engine size: 1.5 litres
• Cylinders: 4
• Turbocharged: Yes

This engine is all about torque.

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Why Choose the 1.5 Diesel?

If your driving includes:

• Long motorway journeys
• Regular heavy loads
• High annual mileage

…this diesel makes sense.

It doesn’t rush, but it pulls. Hills feel flatter, and motorway driving feels effortless.

Electric “Engine Size” in the Vauxhall Mokka-e

Does the Mokka-e Have an Engine Size?

Technically, no. Practically, yes—just not in litres.

The Mokka-e replaces engine size with:

• Battery capacity
• Electric motor output

Mokka-e Powertrain Breakdown

• Battery: 50 kWh
• Electric motor output: 136 PS

In real-world terms, it feels quicker off the line than most petrol versions, despite having no traditional engine size at all.

Comparing Engine Sizes Across the Mokka Range

Quick Engine Size Overview

• 1.2 petrol – balanced and modern
• 1.5 diesel – torque-focused and efficient
• Electric motor – instant response, zero litres

Each option tells a different story.

Which Engine Size Is Best for City Driving?

Best Choice: 1.2-Litre Petrol (100 PS)

Why?

• Light steering
• Smooth low-speed response
• Easy parking and manoeuvring

It’s the engine that feels most relaxed in traffic.

Best Engine Size for Motorway and Long Trips

Best Choice: 1.5-Litre Diesel

This engine feels like it was born for long distances.

• Lower revs at speed
• Excellent fuel economy
• Less fatigue on long journeys

If your Mokka lives on the motorway, diesel still earns its keep.

Best Engine Size for Performance-Minded Drivers

Best Choice: 1.2-Litre Petrol (130 PS)

This version transforms the Mokka’s character.

• Faster acceleration
• Confident overtaking
• More engaging drive

It’s the engine that makes the Mokka feel genuinely fun.

Fuel Economy vs Engine Size: What to Expect

Real-World Fuel Economy Trends

• Smaller petrol engines thrive in mixed driving
• Diesel shines on long, steady journeys
• Electric excels in urban environments

Engine size sets the baseline, but driving style writes the final chapter.

Insurance and Tax: How Engine Size Affects Costs

Smaller engines usually mean:

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• Lower insurance groups
• Reduced road tax

The 1.2 petrol is particularly friendly here, while the electric Mokka-e often benefits from tax incentives depending on location.

Towing and Load Carrying by Engine Size

Towing Capabilities

• 1.2 petrol: light towing only
• 1.5 diesel: best for towing within Mokka limits
• Electric: generally not suited for towing

If towing matters, engine size isn’t optional—it’s decisive.

Reliability and Longevity by Engine Size

Smaller Engines, Bigger Expectations

Modern smaller engines work harder, but regular servicing keeps them healthy.

• Timely oil changes
• Quality fuel
• Sensible driving habits

Do that, and even the 1.2-litre can age gracefully.

Manual vs Automatic Gearboxes and Engine Size

How Gearboxes Change the Feel

• Manual + 1.2 petrol = engaging and efficient
• Automatic + 130 PS petrol = relaxed and refined
• Diesel automatic = effortless cruising

Engine size and gearbox should always be chosen together, not separately.

Engine Size Myths We Should Retire

“Bigger Is Always Better”

Not anymore. Turbocharging and electric motors have rewritten the rulebook.

“Small Engines Struggle”

In the Mokka, they really don’t—especially the 1.2 turbo.

Choosing the Right Vauxhall Mokka Engine Size for You

Ask yourself:

• Where do we drive most?
• How often do we travel long distances?
• Do we value efficiency, performance, or simplicity?

The right engine size isn’t about maximum power—it’s about maximum fit.

Final Thoughts on Vauxhall Mokka Engine Size

The Vauxhall Mokka proves that engine size is no longer a blunt instrument—it’s a finely tuned tool. From the clever 1.2-litre petrol to the torque-rich diesel and the silent shove of electric power, there’s an option that feels tailor-made rather than compromised.

Choose wisely, and the Mokka rewards you every time you turn the key—or press the start button.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine size is most common in the Vauxhall Mokka?

The 1.2-litre turbo petrol is the most popular choice across recent models.

Is the 1.2-litre engine powerful enough?

Yes. Especially in 130 PS form, it delivers confident real-world performance.

Does engine size affect reliability?

Indirectly. Maintenance matters more than size in modern engines.

Which engine size is cheapest to run?

The electric Mokka-e for short trips, followed closely by the 1.2 petrol.

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Is diesel still worth it in the Mokka?

For high-mileage drivers, absolutely.

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