Vauxhall is giving its Mokka an extra shot of caffeine by adding a new performance model called GSE.
GSE, or 'Grand Sport Electric', is the British brand's name for its sportier models, and has so far been used on the Astra and previous-generation Grandland plug-in hybrids. However, while those models sported just a few extra design flourishes and packed a little power, the Mokka GSE is a more focussed offering.
Engineers have given the Mokka GSE a 276bhp electric motor, which sends its power through a mechanical limited-slip differential to the front wheels. It can dash from zero to 62mph in 5.9 seconds, and with a top speed of 124mpg, becomes Vauxhall's fastest electric model.
Compared to the standard Mokka Electric, the GSE packs an extra 122bhp, and gives Vauxhall a rival to sporty electric SUVs from sister brands Abarth and Alfa Romeo with their 600e Scorpionissima and Junior Veloce models.
Along with the differential – which helps put that power down onto the road – the GSE also gets better stopping power thanks to larger 380mm brake discs with four-piston calipers, stiffer suspension, a 10mm-lower ride height, 20-inch alloy wheels and high-performance tyres.
The exterior gets a more aggressive-looking front bumper with extra black trim and GSE badging, yellow brake calipers, and GSE wording on the front doors, while the interior features new sports seats with Alcantara trim and yellow stitching. The digital displays also show additional data for power, battery temperature and torque.
The GSE gets the same 54kWh battery as other Mokkas, but Vauxhall is keeping tight lipped about range details. However, we would imagine it would return around 200 miles on a full charge like the mechanically similar Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce. Pricing information will also be revealed at a later date, but we predict a starting price of just under £40,000 is likely.
GSE is Vauxhall's name for its electrified performance models 
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