Geneva motor show 2012: Vauxhall Mokka SUV

Vauxhall will take on the Nissan Juke and Ford’s new Fiesta-based EcoSport when the Vauxhall Mokka soft-roader hits UK showrooms in November. It was unveiled today at the Geneva motor show.

The Mokka was first seen in Detroit last month as the Buick Encore, and is the marque's answer to the Nissan Juke and Ford's new Fiesta-based EcoSport.

The high-riding five-seater is 4280mm long and around 1645mm high. It has 1540mm front and rear tracks and a 2555mm wheelbase. A picture of the interior has also been released by Vauxhall for the first time.

Both the Mokka and Encore are based on GM’s Gamma II platform, which will also underpin the next-generation Corsa. The platform is also seen beneath the new Chevrolet Aveo.

In the UK, the Mokka will offer a choice of 117bhp naturally aspirated 1.6-litre and 142bhp turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engines, as well as a 1.7 CDTi turbodiesel that has 132bhp and 221lb ft of torque.

All three powerplants will be equipped with stop-start, and the turbo versions can be combined with either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. An all-wheel-drive version will be available in addition to the standard front-drive model.

The Mokka has a maximum of 1372 litres of load space with the rear seats folded or 533 litres with the seats up, as well as 19 storage holes and Vauxhall’s integrated Flex-Fix bicycle carrier.

The car’s minimum ground clearance is 158mm and uses suspension designed specifically for a company crossover. Most Mokka variants will ride on 18in alloy wheels as standard. Other standard technology includes electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist and hill descent control systems and adaptive forward lighting. Vauxhall’s front camera system will be available as an option.

Malcolm Ward, Vauxhall chief designer said: "The Mokka should make a strong statement - we're hoping to help define the segment in terms of design. It also helps that you get more freedom with design when starting with a model that doesn't exist for the brand yet."