It would appear that Nissan was on to something when it launched the Juke, as it has forced everybody else to play catch-up in the B-segment SUV market. Following hot on the heels of the Ford EcoSport, Vauxhall is the latest manufacturer to reveal a compact crossover in the shape of the Mokka SUV. It is scheduled to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

Based on the platform that is set to underpin the next Vauxhall Corsa the Mokka was first shown to the public at the Detroit Auto Show as the Buick Encore and will also spawn a Chevrolet badged model by the time it reaches these shores.

Styling wise the Mokka owes much to the current Astra and Antara with 'eagle-eye' headlights and a 'signature blade' on either side. Protective cladding along the lower extremities, front and rear skid plates, roof rails and 18-inch alloy wheels add some chunky detailing to the Meriva-sized mini-SUV.

The SUV looks aren't just for show, as Vauxhall has confirmed a four-wheel drive drivetrain will be available alongside front-wheel drive. Wherever the power is sent all versions will feature Hill Descent Control as well as Hill Start Assist.

Power will be provided by one of three engines; a 113bhp, 1.6-litre petrol engine, a 138bhp 1.4-litre Turbo with 147lb.ft of torque or a 128bhp 1.7 CDTI turbo with 221lb.ft of torque. Both the 1.4 Turbo and the 1.7 CDTI can be combined either with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions and all variants come fitted with stop-start as standard.

Standard equipment is set to be high for its class with traffic sign recognition cameras, lane departure warning, forward collision alert and bi-xenon lights with high beam assist all offered.

The Vauxhall Mokka will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March and is expected to enter dealerships towards the end of 2012.

Paul Healy - 10 Jan 2012