Vauxhall Unveils Mokka GSE: A Rally-Inspired Electric Hot Hatch

Vauxhall has introduced the Mokka GSE, an all-electric hot hatch that draws inspiration from motorsport. The GSE, standing for Grand Sport Electric, is positioned as an "attainable" performance car, with a rally-inspired version competing in the ADAC GSE Rally Cup.

The front-wheel-drive Mokka GSE features a 54kWh battery powering a 281-horsepower electric motor. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph. Vauxhall states this makes it their fastest-accelerating all-electric production model.

Drivers can select from three modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode delivers 190 hp with a focus on efficiency, while Normal mode increases power to 231 hp with sportier throttle and steering calibration. Sport mode unlocks the full 281 hp and torque, with further adjustments to steering, brakes, and electronic stability control for engaged driving on road or track.

Progressive Performance and Range

On the road, the Normal mode is described as engaging for everyday driving, while Sport mode provides a noticeable boost in performance. The vehicle is equipped with Alcon four-piston front calipers and 380mm front brake discs. The chassis has been lowered by 10 mm, with stiffer springs, uprated axles and shock absorbers, and a new rear anti-roll bar to enhance body control and handling. The steering system has a faster rack for more responsive input.

The Mokka GSE offers a maximum range of up to 209 miles on optional Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, or 201 miles on standard Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires. This range is sufficient for journeys such as London to Manchester or Newcastle to Edinburgh and back.

Motorsport-Inspired Design and Features

Both the exterior and interior of the Mokka GSE feature motorsport-inspired elements. Exterior enhancements include a high-gloss black sports bumper, GSE badging, black-painted skid plates, and dark-tinted rear windows. Inside, occupants are treated to heated Alcantara bucket seats with a performance-inspired design. The dashboard provides race-inspired data, including G-force display, acceleration times, and torque data.

Additional interior touches include Alcantara door inserts, a heated vegan leather steering wheel, aluminum sports pedals, ambient lighting, and a black headliner. The car's design heritage is noted to trace back to the Vauxhall Astra GTE Mk1 from 1984, a model that marked Vauxhall's entry into the hot hatch segment.

Pricing and Availability

The Vauxhall Mokka GSE is priced at £35,495, reflecting a £1,500 taxpayer-funded EV grant. Vauxhall refers to it as an "attainable" hot hatch. Optional features include a body-colored roof, a black bonnet for an additional £250, and an upgrade to Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 tires for £100, which extends the range by eight miles.

By comparison, the standard Mokka range starts at £26,730 for petrol models and £29,895 for hybrids. The standard Mokka Electric is available from £34,280.

The Mokka GSE offers 310 liters of boot space, which can be expanded to 1,060 liters with the rear backrests folded down. The vehicle is available for purchase now.