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Covers come off Opel's Corsa SUV

Opel is preparing to finally remove the covers from two very, but equally exciting new models: the Corsa-based Mokka SUV and Russelsheim’s hottest hot hatch yet, the latest Astra OPC.

Under the theme “Driving into the future” the new Mokka is the German automaker’s first foray into the SUV B-segment. Ford recently revealed it too would campaign a global vehicle in that segment, called the EcoSport and based on the Fiesta.

The petite Mokka is based on Opel’s Corsa hatchback and measures just 4.28 metres long, but the automaker says it is able to comfortably seat five people.

COMPACT, BUT CAPABLE

Despite its size, Opel assures the Mokka will combine its attractive design with edgy technologies and features more commonly seen in larger SUVs, such as driver assistance systems based on the Opel Eye camera system.

The Mokka will be introduced with three engines: an 85kW 1.6, 103kW 1.4 Turbo and a 96kW 1.7 CDTI turbodiesel.

Front- and all-wheel-drive configurations are both available in the Mokka. The part-time all-wheel drive system automatically and seamlessly transfers power to the rear wheels when higher levels of traction are required.

Standard features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control as well as the hill start assist and hill descent control systems.

Opel Astra OPC

OPC ROAR: The most potent Astra yet will also shine at the Geneva show.

HOTTEST ASTRA

Hot hatch fans, though, can rejoice at the news of the official debut of the most powerful Astra yet.

Opel’s not saying too much about high-performance Astra OPC’s credentials, other than that it takes its 206kW from a 2.0-litre direct injection turbocharged engine that churns out 400Nm of peak torque and has a top speed of 250km/h.

The Astra OPC’s dynamic prowess should be interesting to note, too, with its adoption of HiPerStruts (high performance struts) and the FlexRide chassis system with dedicated Sport and OPC drive modes.

To enable occupants to match the OPC’s pace, new bucket seats said to use state-of-the-art technology are used. The front seats are constructed from a weight-saving material that Opel says uses an “organic injection sheet with composite material”, comes with enhanced side support and, with up to 18 different settings, allows drivers to set a lower seat position.

Another reveal to be watched with interest is the introduction of a new 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI diesel engine in the Insignia.

Opel’s flagship SUV is not sold in South Africa, but we do hope the 143kW/400Nm engine, which is said to slurp around 4.9 litres of fuel per 100km, eventually makes it way down south. 
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