More than 280 hp in a small electric crossover may no longer be a surprise. Add high-performance brakes and a mechanical limited-slip differential, however, and the proposition becomes rather different.
That is exactly where the new Opel Mokka GSE sits. It may be the German brand’s quickest crossover from 0 to 100 km/h, completing the sprint in just 5.9 seconds, but its key advantage over rivals is not immediately visible.
What truly sets the Opel Mokka GSE apart is the way its power is delivered to the road and how effectively it can be used.
A different Mokka
Sitting at the top of the Opel Mokka range, the Mokka GSE is the first fully electric model to wear the GSE badge. Since 2012, those letters had been reserved for the plug-in hybrid powertrains of the Astra and Grandland.
Although it is based on the regular Mokka, the GSE gains mechanical and structural revisions that distinguish it from every other version in the line-up.
It retains the shape of a compact crossover and features several exclusive styling details, yet its technical approach is clearly different.
Distinctive mechanical package
The front-mounted electric motor produces 207 kW (281 hp) and 345 Nm of maximum torque. This enables a 0–100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h.
Its NMC battery has a gross capacity of 54 kWh, delivering up to 336 kilometres of combined WLTP range. DC charging is capped at 100 kW, while AC charging is available at up to 11 kW.
Yet these figures are not what define the Mokka GSE. It is fitted with a component rarely seen in this segment: a Torsen limited-slip differential, intended to make driving sportier and more effective.
Supporting that objective, the suspension has been lowered and fitted with dedicated dampers and hydraulic bump stops, as well as specific axles. The steering has been recalibrated, while the braking system now features 380 mm front discs and four-piston Alcon callipers.
Rather than merely increasing output, Opel’s priority was to provide greater control over the car’s overall behaviour.
Opel Mokka GSE styling
The visual differences from other Mokka versions are easy to spot. They include unique bumpers, gloss-black trim, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and yellow-painted brake callipers.
The cabin has also been given its own features. There are sport-shaped seats with integrated Alcantara head restraints, new door trims, aluminium pedals and dedicated performance pages within the central-screen infotainment system. See the gallery below:
Despite its sporting focus, the Mokka GSE retains the same 310 litres of boot space as the other electric versions, ensuring it remains versatile. Folding the rear seats increases this figure to 1060 litres.
Safety and driving assistance
The Mokka GSE comes with Intelli-Lux LED Matrix headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a 180º rear panoramic camera and a blind-spot detection system.
Its driving-assistance package also includes driver attention monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control with start/stop functionality and emergency braking.
Who is the Opel Mokka GSE for?
The Mokka GSE occupies an unusual position. While it still looks like a B-segment electric crossover, it offers dynamic qualities and mechanical advantages not normally found in this type of vehicle.
Buyers looking solely for range or efficiency will find alternatives better suited to those priorities elsewhere in the Opel Mokka range.
The case for this GSE version lies in what it can do on the road. It is a compact electric car designed to appeal to those behind the wheel.
How much does it cost?
The new Opel Mokka GSE arrives on the Portuguese market with prices starting at €47,300. It comes with a very comprehensive standard specification, with the black bonnet, costing an additional €250, being the only available option.
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