Vauxhall has opened orders for its Mokka Hybrid, complete with mild hybrid technology to improve efficiency and lower emissions.

The new Mokka Hybrid joins the existing fully electric Mokka versions as well as the two non-electrified petrol engines

Priced from £25,320, the Mokka Hybrid features a 136hp 1.2-litre petrol engine with a dual-clutch automatic transmission that incorporates a 28hp motor fed by a 0.89kWh battery.

The powertrain is now available across the Vauxhall line-up – including the Corsa, Astra, Astra Sport Tourer, along with the forthcoming Frontera and Grandland – plus many other models in the Stellantis stable.

While technically a mild hybrid, it stands out for being able to drive on electric power only at short distances – up to around 1km and when under low torque requirements.

The motor also assists the petrol engine by delivering extra torque under acceleration, such as when launching from a standstill. This aids both performance and economy. The 48V powertrain delivers a 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds –  0.1 seconds faster than the equivalent petrol model. It also gives an 18g/km reduction in CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy of 57.6mpg.

During deceleration, the petrol engine stops and the motor acts as a generator to recharge the hybrid system’s 48V battery. The battery also stores the energy recuperated by the regenerative braking system.

Drivers can choose between the three driving modes Eco, Normal and Sport – which runs the petrol engine at all times.

The new Mokka Hybrid joins the existing fully electric Mokka versions as well as the two non-electrified petrol engines.

It’s available in GS and Ultimate specifications, as well as a special-edition Griffin trim.

Entry-level Griffin models come with 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows and contrasting black roof. The interior features a 7.0-inch touchscreen and similarly sized digital instrument cluster, plus heated front seats and heated steering wheel. Also on the list are  LED headlights and daytime running lights, high beam assist, rear parking sensors and panoramic reversing camera. Driver assistance tech includes lane departure warning with lane keep assist, speed sign recognition, driver drowsiness alert, cruise control and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

GS models are priced at £30,810 and add in 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels with red accents, plus a black Griffin logo and Vizor frame at the front. Drivers also get the Multimedia Pure Panel Navigation system with a 10-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, electronic climate control, rain-sensitive windscreen wipers and an automatic anti-dazzle rearview mirror.

For £34,115, you get the top-rung Ultimate model with IntelliLux adaptive LED Matrix headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane positioning assistant, side blind spot alert and front and rear parking sensors. Keyless entry and start, Alcantara interior seat trim and a driver’s seat massage function are also added in.

Order books are open now for the Mokka Hybrid and first deliveries start this month.