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By Jonathan Crouch

Vauxhall's Mokka is much improved by Hybrid power, thinks Jonathan Crouch.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 43

If you're undecided between old tech combustion power or a full-EV powertrain for your Vauxhall Mokka, this 48V Hybrid version could be an ideal compromise. It's more usable and much cheaper than the electric version, but still electrified enough for the current zeitgeist.

Backgroundword count: 127

As EV orders stall, there's an increasing impetus on mainstream brands to step up their availability of Hybrid technology; proper self-charging Hybrid technology where the battery can actually occasionally power the car on its own, rather than the more ineffectual mild hybrid sort. Given that market outlook, the Stellantis Group conglomerate must be grateful it has its 48V Hybrid powertrain: it would actually be easier to list the models this isn't now fitted to across the group. Here's another, Vauxhall's Mokka Hybrid. You can't plug it in, but if all you need the car for is suburban journeys, it'll still use its battery for up to half the time. Do you really need to switch to an EV just yet? Cars like this really pose that question.

Driving Experienceword count: 263

Two versions of this 48V Hybrid powertrain are in use across the Vauxhall range; this Mokka uses the more powerful 136hp variant of this 1.2-litre three cylinder turbocharged petrol unit. It produces peak power of 136hp at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 230Nm is available at 1,750rpm. The engine is coupled to an electrified six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (e-DCT6) designed specifically for use in Hybrid powertrains. A permanent magnet synchronous electric motor is integrated into the gearbox and produces peak power of 21kW (28hp) and maximum torque of 55Nm. In everyday driving over a mixture of city streets, country roads and motorways, the petrol engine and electric motor operate together or separately to optimise energy consumption and performance. This powertrain is particularly effective in city traffic - the electric motor allowing the Mokka Hybrid to be driven short distances (up to just under a mile) on electric power alone under low torque requirements (for instance when manoeuvring or at under 18mph in urban traffic). The e-motor also assists the petrol engine by delivering extra torque under acceleration, such as when launching from a standstill. This benefits driving dynamics and CO2 savings and contributes to a 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds - 0.1 seconds faster than the equivalent petrol model. During deceleration, the petrol engine stops and the e-motor acts as a generator to recharge the hybrid system's 48V battery. The battery also stores the energy recuperated by the regenerative braking system. The more affordable 100PS variant of this Hybrid unit that Vauxhall offers in the Corsa supermini isn't available in this SUV.

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