The Vauxhall Mokka X is a decent enough small tow car, but when there are so many strong cars on test this year it finishes close to the bottom of the pile in the ‘Up to 1400kg’ class.
In still air the car felt stable, but when driven in strong winds the Vauxhall moved around more than its best rivals.
The brakes felt responsive enough in normal towing, but the 11.7m stopping distance is so-so compared with the likes of the VW Golf.
We’re fans of the 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine for regular driving duties, combining lively performance and decent fuel economy. However, the brisk 12.8-second 30-60mph time doesn’t tell the whole story.
If you work the engine and gearbox hard, the Mokka X tows at a respectable pace, but there’s not enough mid-range muscle to hold speed easily in a high gear. Hill starts can be a struggle, too, and it’s easy to overheat the clutch.
Leave the caravan behind, and you’ll find the Mokka X isn’t a very rewarding drive.
The steering gives few clues as to what the front tyres are up to, and the ride isn’t controlled enough. It feels soft at first, but sharp bumps send a thump through the cabin.
The Mokka has plenty of space in the front, although room for passengers isn’t so generous in the back. The boot is small and we really struggled to find space for our touring gear, so be ready to travel light – or invest in a roof box.