The compact SUV segment is hotter than ever, with buyers seeking a blend of style, efficiency, space and driving fun in a package that fits urban life and weekend adventures. We pit the Vauxhall Mokka against the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Juke—three popular contenders—to see which one delivers the most compelling package. Drawing from real-world tests and specs, this showdown evaluates powertrains, running costs, practicality and on-road dynamics.
Powertrain Performance Breakdown
Each model brings a distinct engine setup to the table, influencing acceleration, refinement and overall drive feel. The Vauxhall Mokka uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 128bhp, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup propels it from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds, offering peppy mid-range pull thanks to 230Nm of torque available from just 1,750rpm.
Hyundai Kona stands out with its mild-hybrid 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 141bhp and a peak torque of 265Nm at 4,000rpm, aided by an electric motor for low-end boost. Its six-speed automatic helps it hit 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds, making it the quickest here despite lacking a full turbo.
The Nissan Juke lags with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo unit making 112bhp and 200Nm, taking 11.8 seconds to reach 62mph via a seven-speed automatic. It feels underpowered on highways and less refined than the Mokka.
| Model | Engine | Power (bhp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-62mph (secs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Hybrid | 1.6L 4-cyl + hybrid | 141 | 265 | 8.9 |
| Vauxhall Mokka 1.2 Turbo | 1.2L 3-cyl turbo | 128 | 230 | 9.2 |
| Nissan Juke 1.0 DIG-T | 1.0L 3-cyl turbo | 112 | 200 | 11.8 |
The Kona edges ahead in outright speed, but the Mokka feels livelier in everyday scenarios due to its torque delivery.
Fuel Efficiency and Ownership Costs
Efficiency is crucial for compact SUVs, and the Kona’s hybrid system shines. Real-world testing yielded 53.6mpg, far surpassing the Mokka’s 38.6mpg and Juke’s 34.7mpg. This translates to lower annual fuel costs—around £1,272 for the Kona versus higher for rivals over 20,000 miles.
WLTP figures reinforce this: Kona at 56.5mpg, Mokka 47.1mpg, Juke 44.1mpg. Road tax is £220 annually for Mokka and Juke due to 137g/km and similar CO2, while Kona’s lower emissions help long-term savings.
Upfront prices are close: Kona £26,755, Juke £26,600, Mokka £27,100 (as tested). Residual values after three years/36,000 miles favor Juke at 50% (£13,303), then Kona 54.8% (£14,662), Mokka 44.9% (£12,176). Total depreciation hits Mokka hardest at £14,924.
- Best for fuel savings: Kona hybrid dominates real-world economy.
- Running costs winner: Kona, with superior mpg and residuals balancing its slight premium.
Dimensions, Space and Practicality
Size matters in this class. The Juke measures 4,210mm long with a 2,636mm wheelbase, making it roomiest inside, especially rear legroom. Mokka is shorter at 4,151mm and lower at 1,534mm, aiding parking (10.4m turning circle). Kona slots in between, offering good visibility.
Boot space: Juke leads with 422 litres (seats up)/1,305 litres (down), ideal for families. Mokka trails at 350/1,105 litres, Kona at 374/1,156 litres. Hybrids reduce Juke’s boot to 354 litres, but petrol versions excel.
| Model | Length (mm) | Boot Up/Down (litres) | Wheelbase (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Juke | 4210 | 422/1305 | 2636 |
| Hyundai Kona | ~4200 | 374/1156 | ~2600 |
| Vauxhall Mokka | 4151 | 350/1105 | 2557 |
Juke wins practicality for cargo and passengers, while Mokka suits tight spaces.
Interior Quality and Tech Features
Mokka impresses with a modern cabin, bold Vizor front and digital dash. It offers premium materials in Elite trim, wireless charging and a 10-inch touchscreen.
Kona’s interior feels upscale with dual screens, ambient lighting and Bluelink connectivity. Hybrid models add efficiency-focused displays.
Juke’s cabin is quirky with customizable lighting but dated infotainment; it’s functional yet noisier.
- Infotainment: All have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Kona and Mokka feel more intuitive.
- Comfort: Mokka and Kona quieter; Juke’s engine buzzes under load.
On-Road Dynamics and Ride Comfort
Mokka balances sharply with good grip and steering feedback, though firm over bumps. Kona’s hybrid smooths urban driving, with composed handling. Juke feels clumsy, slowest and least refined on test.
Turning circles are similar (10.4-10.6m), suiting city use. Towing: Kona 1,300kg, Juke/Mokka ~1,200-1,250kg.
Safety and Reliability Insights
All score well in Euro NCAP (4-5 stars). Kona includes advanced aids like highway assist; Mokka has matrix LED lights; Juke offers ProPilot. Reliability data favors Hyundai’s warranty (5 years unlimited mileage).
Pricing and Trim Levels
Entry prices hover £25,000-£28,000. Mid-spec like Premium/Elite add nav, cameras and alloys. Kona justifies cost with hybrid efficiency; Juke offers value in space; Mokka appeals to style seekers.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vauxhall Mokka | Lively engine, sharp handling, stylish interior | Higher depreciation, smaller boot, average economy |
| Hyundai Kona | Best mpg, quick acceleration, strong residuals | Slightly pricier, less torque low-down |
| Nissan Juke | Biggest boot, good residuals, spacious | Slowest, thirstiest, noisy engine |
Which One Should You Buy?
Hyundai Kona takes the crown for efficiency and balance, ideal for cost-conscious drivers. Choose Mokka for fun and flair; Juke for max space on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which has the best fuel economy: Mokka, Kona or Juke?
The Hyundai Kona hybrid achieves 53.6mpg real-world, beating Mokka (38.6mpg) and Juke (34.7mpg).
Is the Nissan Juke bigger than the Vauxhall Mokka?
Yes, Juke is longer (4210mm vs 4151mm) with more boot space (422L vs 350L).
How quick is the Vauxhall Mokka 1.2 Turbo?
0-62mph in 9.2 seconds, faster than Juke but behind Kona.
What’s the boot space comparison?
Juke: 422/1305L; Kona: 374/1156L; Mokka: 350/1105L.
Are these SUVs good for families?
Juke offers most space; all suit small families but check boot for prams/strollers.
References
- Vauxhall Mokka vs Hyundai Kona vs Nissan Juke — Auto Express. 2021-05-08. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/vauxhall/mokka/354935/vauxhall-mokka-vs-hyundai-kona-vs-nissan-juke
- Nissan Juke vs. Opel Mokka: A Complete Comparison for 2025 — Carvago. 2025. https://carvago.com/articles/car-battle/nissan_juke_vs_opel_mokka
- Hyundai KONA Vs Nissan JUKE | Which one is better? — YouTube (Car Enthusiasts Channel). Accessed 2026.