Opel Mokka GSE: Small SUV, Big Ego
For anyone still convinced that all electric crossovers look and feel the same, Opel’s latest experiment begs to differ. The Mokka, already a sales darling thanks to its clean design and sharp stance, now comes in GSE trim. That badge means 207 kW (281 bhp), a top speed of 200 km/h, and Opel’s proud claim that this is its fastest fully electric production model to date. It sounds impressive, though the real story is less about numbers and more about proving that Rüsselsheim hasn’t forgotten how to build something with a pulse — even if the throttle pedal no longer moves fuel.
The Mokka GSE sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. That may not sound particularly electrifying, but a Torsen multi-plate differential and new hydraulic dampers add a genuine hint of rally attitude. Handling feels tighter than in the standard Mokka, though physics still has the final say. Like every 1.7-tonne EV crossover, it meets its limits in corners that don’t forgive mass.
Visually, the GSE wants to be noticed. Yellow four-piston brake calipers, sports seats and aluminium pedals do their best to shout “we’re not just another urban crossover.” In reality, it still is — just one in a louder outfit.
Three engines, three mindsets
Opel clearly expects a mixed crowd. For those still suspicious of plugs, there’s a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The half-converted can pick the 48-volt hybrid. And the fully electric Mokka Electric uses a 54 kWh battery for up to 403 kilometres of range — a solid figure, though hardly the stuff to keep Tesla engineers awake at night.
The GSE distinguishes itself with speed and character rather than substance. It doesn’t offer anything the Peugeot e-2008 or Kia Niro EV haven’t already. What it does offer is Opel’s attempt to balance sportiness with the quiet virtue of electrification — a balancing act few brands pull off gracefully.
Design that tries to be ethical
The Mokka ditches chrome and fills its cabin with recycled materials. A vegan-friendly steering wheel, aerodynamic wheels and upbeat sustainability press releases tick all the expected boxes. The result isn’t dazzling, but it’s tasteful and well-executed.
Screens, assistants and other modern rituals
Say “Hey Opel” and the new ChatGPT-powered assistant springs to life, ready to answer the questions you’d otherwise Google. Convenient, if not life-changing. The twin 10-inch displays look sharp, though the infotainment system still behaves like a German engineer on a tea break: slow but precise.
Analysis: Opel doesn’t need to prove anything — yet it insists
The Mokka GSE won’t rewrite the EV rulebook, but it shows that Opel no longer wants to play it safe. It’s more of a statement — a flash of confidence saying, “Look, we can do this too.” And yes, they can. The question is whether anyone outside the press department will notice.
The Mokka GSE is quick, well-built and noisy enough, metaphorically speaking, to turn heads. But it isn’t a trailblazer. Not while Opel is still trying to be both green and gritty. The result is like a strong espresso — small, potent and just a bit too self-aware.
