Vauxhall Mokka GSE Unveiled: 276bhp, Torsen LSD – The Unlikely Hot SUV is Here!

For a long time, Vauxhall was synonymous with performance. Think back to the legendary Lotus Carlton, once the fastest four-door saloon in the world, or the raw power of the Monaro, Astra VXR, and Corsa VXR. Vauxhall had a knack for injecting serious power into cars where you least expected it. Then, that spark seemed to fade. Performance models became rare, and the brand shifted focus.

But what if that passion for performance never truly left? What if it was just waiting for the right moment, and the right technology, to re-emerge?

Welcome to the world’s most unlikely, yet incredibly exciting, hot SUV crossover: the Vauxhall Mokka GSE. And no, this isn’t a concept or a dream – it’s real. Vauxhall has genuinely unleashed a Mokka with nearly 300 brake horsepower and a host of serious performance upgrades. Let’s dive into what makes this electric pocket rocket so special and why it marks a thrilling return for performance Vauxhall.

The Unexpected Return: A Rally-Bred Backstory

The Mokka GSE isn’t just a random act of automotive madness. It has a legitimate performance pedigree.

• Rally Prototype Roots: The Mokka GSE is based on the Mokka GSE rally prototype, which was the first car developed under the FIA’s E-Rally5 regulations. This means it has a foundation built for competitive performance.
• Production Version: What you’re seeing is the production version of that rally-inspired machine, indicating a thoughtful and intentional approach to its development.

This backstory is crucial, as it signals that the Mokka GSE is more than just a power boost; it’s a carefully engineered performance vehicle.

Exterior Design: The Sleeper Look with Subtle Aggression

From the outside, the Mokka GSE maintains a somewhat understated appearance, allowing it to retain a “sleeper” quality, yet there are clear visual cues that set it apart from a regular Mokka Electric.

• Revised Bumpers & Grille: It features updated bumpers and unique grille inserts that contribute to a more aggressive stance.
• Distinctive Wheels: New wheel designs further differentiate the GSE.
• Understated Yet Sporty: The changes are enough to hint at its performance capabilities without being overly flashy, perfectly embodying the spirit of an unexpected hot hatch.

Performance Upgrades: Power, Grip, and Blistering Speed

This is where the Mokka GSE truly shines, packing a serious punch for its size.

• Electric Powertrain: Power comes from a single electric motor mounted on the front axle, making it a front-wheel-drive performance machine.
  • Horsepower: It delivers a formidable 276 brake horsepower.
  • Torque: It produces 254 pounds-feet of torque.
• Rapid Acceleration: The Mokka GSE sprints from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.9 seconds.
• High Top Speed: It boasts a top speed of 124 miles per hour.
• Torsen Limited Slip Differential (LSD): Crucially, the power is put down to the road via a Torsen limited slip differential. Torsen has an excellent reputation for diffs, ensuring effective power delivery and maximizing grip, especially during hard cornering.
• Uprated Brakes: To match its speed, the GSE is equipped with 280mm discs at the front, providing strong stopping power.
• Custom Michelin Pilot Sport EV Tires: It rides on 225/40 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, which are specifically developed for this car, optimizing grip and performance.

Chassis & Handling: Engineered for Dynamics

The Mokka GSE’s performance isn’t just about raw power; it’s backed by significant chassis enhancements designed for superior handling.

• Advanced Suspension: It features double hydraulic shock absorbers for improved damping.
• Lowered Stance: The car sits 10 millimeters lower than the standard Mokka Electric, reducing its center of gravity.
• Wider Track & New Rear Axle: It boasts a wider track and a new rear axle, contributing to enhanced stability and cornering ability.
• Massive Roll Stiffness Increase: The roll stiffness is up by an astonishing 189% compared to the Mokka Electric, indicating a dramatically firmer and more controlled ride, minimizing body roll during aggressive driving.
• Lightweight for an EV: Weighing in at approximately 1.6 tonnes, it’s relatively light for an electric car of its size, resulting in a healthy power-to-weight ratio of about 170 brake horsepower per tonne (comparable to a Hyundai i20 N).
• Rally-Derived Components: Vauxhall emphasizes that high-voltage components like the motor, inverter, battery, and wiring harness are derived directly from the Mokka GSE rally car, highlighting its performance lineage.

Interior Enhancements: Sporty Touches for the Driver

While the focus is on performance, the cabin receives subtle upgrades to match its sporty character.

• New Sport Seats: Features new seats with a distinctive stripe down the middle, good bolstering, and integrated headrests, promising excellent support during spirited driving.
• Unique Steering Wheel: The steering wheel sports a flat bottom and a flat top, reminiscent of high-performance sports cars.
• Metal Pedals: Aluminum or metal-fronted pedals add a sporty touch.
• Custom Digital Display: The 10-inch central screen now features custom GSE graphics, performance data, and even a lap timer, catering to the enthusiast driver.
• Selectable Drive Modes: Three drive modes are available:
  • Eco: For maximum efficiency.
  • Normal: Offers restricted power and top speed.
  • Sport: Unlocks the full 276 bhp and the complete Mokka GSE experience.

Range & Practicality Considerations

While performance is key, it’s important to note the practical implications.

• Shared Battery: The battery is shared with the regular Mokka Electric.
• Reduced Range: Due to its higher power output and performance focus, expect the Mokka GSE’s range to be less than the standard car’s 252 miles. This is a common trade-off for performance EVs.

The “Why”: A Return to Fun for Vauxhall

The Mokka GSE is exciting for two primary reasons:

1. Proper Engineering: It’s not just a Mokka with a bigger motor. Vauxhall has genuinely engineered this car for performance, with upgraded tires, brakes, suspension, and a limited slip differential. The rally car backing adds credibility to its thoughtful design.
2. Return of Fun: This car signals Vauxhall’s renewed interest in delivering engaging and enjoyable driving experiences, a quality that has been somewhat lacking in recent years. It promises to bring back the “laugh” factor that defined earlier performance Vauxhalls.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy the Vauxhall Mokka GSE

Top 5 Reasons to AVOID the Vauxhall Mokka GSE

Availability & Conclusion: A Bold Statement

Orders for the Vauxhall Mokka GSE are set to open in August, with first deliveries expected by the end of the year.

The Vauxhall Mokka GSE is a bold and unexpected statement. It’s an electric hot SUV crossover that defies expectations, bringing serious performance and handling upgrades to a segment not typically known for it. With its rally pedigree, powerful electric motor, Torsen LSD, and comprehensively upgraded chassis, it promises a truly engaging driving experience. While its range might be slightly less than the standard Mokka Electric, the trade-off for exhilarating performance is clear.

This is more than just a new model; it’s a thrilling return to form for performance Vauxhall, proving that the spirit of putting unexpected power into everyday cars is alive and well, now in an electric era. If you’re looking for a compact, fun-to-drive EV that stands out from the crowd, the Mokka GSE is one to watch.

About the Author: CAR magazine Car magazine.co.uk is the website for CAR magazine, Britain’s oldest monthly motoring mag. Stay tuned for daily car reviews, news, spyshots and fun motoring features.Links

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