GTE, GSi, VXR, and now GSE sporty models are a key part of the Vauxhall brand. Following the launch of the warm Astra GSE plug-in hybrid in 2022, Vauxhall is adding an all-electric GSE version of the popular Mokka SUV.
Design and interior
Outside, you’ll spot the sportiest Mokka by its big wheels, which are 20in GSE Performance wheels to be precise, and unique to this car. There are also chunkier sports bumpers, and gloss black trim on the arches and lower half of the car.
Inside, the biggest highlights are the bucket seats, which on top of looking the part, are impressively supportive – although in our opinion, they could be a bit wider. Still, they and the large amount of Alcantara trim draw your eyes away from the hard, textured plastic on the tops of the doors and the lower half of the dashboard. Elsewhere, there’s a heated vegan leather-trimmed steering wheel, and aluminium sports pedals.
However, underneath is where the biggest changes have happened, although the basic formula is like the Abarth 600e, and the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.
Performance and drive
With 281hp, this Mokka is the fastest ever electric Vauxhall, with its front-mounted motor capable of accelerating the car to 62mph in 5.9 seconds. Top speed is 124mph, with up to 345Nm of torque, and there’s a claimed WLTP range of up to 209 miles.
To complete the performance package, the GSE gets Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, or for an extra £100, these can be substituted for a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 tyres, taking the range from 201, to 209 miles. Plus, there’s a proper mechanical limited-slip differential, and 380mm Alcon brakes and callipers.
There are three driving modes. Eco mode, as the name suggests, is the most efficient mode, providing smooth acceleration and 190hp, 300Nm of torque, and a top speed of 93mph. Normal mode equals 231hp, and 345Nm of torque, giving a maximum speed of 112mph. The most extreme driving mode is Sport, giving the full 281hp with the same 345Nm of torque, and a maximum speed of 124mph.
We found that Normal was the best mode around town, with Sport best on the open road. The Mokka GSE has a firm, but not uncomfortable ride. On the twisty country roads around the launch venue, the sharp steering and keen throttle response kept the drive involving and fun.
It is in the twisties (or on a track!) is where you feel the benefit of the mechanical limited-slip differential. This Mokka can really attack corners, the progressive power can be applied much earlier, plus there’s an impressive level of grip from the special tyres. Corner exits are at a much higher speed than expected. Although, like the Abarth, it can feel a bit grabby on cambered roads.
The brakes, considering their size and power, in our opinion, were the most disappointing part of the package. We tried a couple of different Mokkas to see if ours was a rogue car, but all felt spongy, and didn’t feel particularly progressive.
The biggest elephant in the room, like with the Abarth 600e, is the range. Vauxhall might be claiming up to 209 miles, but enjoy all the performance, and that quickly drops to around 170 miles.
The Vauxhall Mokka GSE is one of the most capable and fun-to-drive EVs on sale, but you must be mindful of its shortcomings, the biggest one being the electric range.
Positive: Fun to drive, sharp looks, keen performance
Negative: Use all the performance and the range drops quickly, spongy brakes, mechanical limited-slip differential sometimes grabby.
Standard equipment: 20in wheels, LED head and taillights, 10in digital cluster, 10in Multimedia Navi Pure Panel system, power folding and adjustable door mirrors, keyless entry and start, touchscreen infotainment, heated front bucket seats, multi-function steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors with panoramic rear camera, six-speaker sound system, automatic air conditioning.
Engines: Electric: 281hp
Equipment grades: GSE
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
| Model | Vauxhall Mokka GSE 207kW |
| P11D: | £35,495 |
| Residual value | TBC |
| Depreciation | TBC |
| Fuel | £3,988 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | TBC |
| Cost per mile | TBC |
| Range | 209 miles |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 0g/km (3%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £18/£37 |
| Luggage capacity | 310 litres |
| Battery size/power | 54kWh/281hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
