With typical precision, the engineers have been putting the finishing touches to the next-generation bestseller. They are currently setting up the new car for optimum acoustic comfort in the interior, excellent driving safety at high speeds and Vauxhall-typical steering and pedal feel. Since February, the Vauxhall experts for chassis, powertrain, electronics and lighting have been using the Arctic winter for the tuning of chassis and assistance systems on frozen lakes and narrow country roads in Swedish Lapland.
NextGen
The next Vauxhall Mokka generation is a completely new design based on the company's highly efficient CMP multi-energy platform (Common Modular Platform). This modular platform offers maximum flexibility in vehicle development. The CMP also allows the use of purely battery-electric drive as well as internal combustion engines. The customer has the choice. Thanks to the use of high-strength steels, the vehicle weight is low and the body stability is high. The new Mokka weighs up to 120 kilograms less than the previous model – with almost the same wheelbase and tyre sizes. With the electric Mokka-e, the batteries are installed deep in the vehicle floor, which lowers the centre of gravity and at the same time increases torsional rigidity by a further 30 per cent – excellent prerequisites for dynamic driving. Customers can look forward to a very agile second-generation Mokka, which will be available in dealerships from early 2021. Until then, the testing continues at full speed.
Testing, Fine-tuning At Arctic Circle
Engineer Gunnar Nees never tires of turning lap after lap on ice. He regularly stops for few minutes, reaches for the laptop, reads out measured values, and logs every mile covered. In the vast Arctic wilderness, it is still freezing cold in March. Exactly the right conditions for orchestrating the harmony between ABS, ESP, assistance systems and the rest of the new chassis.
The development cars are still hiding behind a green and black camouflage, with 3D-like graphics that blur the vehicle’s contours. The engineer behind the steering wheel has come to the far north to set up the chassis. Like every Vauxhall, the new Mokka must respond precisely to steering inputs and give good feedback, be comfortable and at the same time have a firm enough ride. A Vauxhall must not display uncontrolled body movements, for example, when the vehicle is driving over a large bump at medium speed. The Vauxhall philosophy calls for safe and relaxing driving on the motorway. A Vauxhall must remain easily controllable in all situations and be fun to drive at the same time.
These characteristics must be present under all weather conditions everywhere – at the icy Arctic Circle as well as in high summer at the Mediterranean. However, nothing should change in terms of precise handling and consistently good-natured driving behaviour. Parts, components and systems are continuously fine-tuned by the company engineers: dampers, springs, steering. In addition, the control software is adapted: for ideal pedal feel when accelerating and braking, for the right amount of steering power assistance and for the interaction between all assistance systems.
High-speed Driving
Back in Germany the same test engineer pilots the Mokka-prototype on home ground at the Rodgau-Dudenhofen Test Centre. Karsten Bohle, Project Coordinator, Second-generation Mokka, joins Gunnar Nees.
“We are all looking forward to seeing the new Mokka on the road in customer’s hands. The test drives are running like clockwork, also because our new baby, with its low weight and compact external dimensions, reacts well to adjustments. Handling and comfort are super. The Mokka is a joy to drive; the development work has been great fun,” said Bohle.
The new Mokka is ready to take its final exams at the Test Centre. While shaken, ride comfort and interior acoustics must remain unstirred – not even by the torture track. Here, not far from the Opel-Vauxhall base in Rüsselsheim, the tracks are replicas of the trickiest road surfaces in Europe. The engineers have tested here for decades and built up a huge wealth of experience. They repeatedly adjust springs and dampers, the balance between responsiveness and sporty precision continuously improved. The new car features particularly low road noise for optimum acoustic comfort, which the high-quality materials in the interior further increase. Squeaks and rattles are taboo.
The steering and suspension get their Vauxhall ‘feel’ on the Dudenhofen handling course. Two tie rods at the McPherson strut turrets are standard equipment; they provide further stiffness at the front end, adding a touch more precision and agility. The new car turns into corners eagerly, is easy to handle at the limit and the assistance systems function perfectly. Then comes the ultimate discipline – the high-speed oval with its steep banking, followed by the long straight. This test demands rock-solid stability at all speeds. In real life, it also results in a huge safety benefit when taking avoidance manoeuvres at lower speeds. The engineers only award their seal of approval for the autobahn when they return satisfied from the high-speed oval. The new Mokka has already passed this test with flying colours. However, testing, testing and yet more testing will continue until the summer. When the Mokka has achieved production readiness, cars will start rolling off the assembly line at the end of the year. (MT)
Hyundai Bayon To Feature 69% High-Strength Steel Grade For Enhanced Safety
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has detailed the safety specifications and platform architecture for its upcoming Bayon SUV model ahead of its official launch in India on 26 October 2026.
Built on the Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon utilises a body structure comprising of 69 percent high-strength steel grades, integrating hot-stamped components across the front apron, dashboard, rear floor and side reinforcements.
The vehicle incorporates Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, providing 23 driver assistance features supported by three radar units and 12 parking sensors. Over 35 safety features are fitted as standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The Bayon will be powered by a 1.5-litre MPi four-cylinder petrol engine producing 84.4 kW (115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an Intelligent Variable Transmission. Exterior options will span 10 colour configurations across monotone, dual-tone, and matte finishes.
Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said, "At Hyundai, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it enhances the everyday experiences of our customers. With the Hyundai BAYON, we have combined a robust body structure, advanced safety technologies, and intelligent driver assistance systems to deliver a comprehensive safety experience. From its reinforced chassis and high-strength steel construction to Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, the BAYON is engineered to inspire confidence not only in challenging situations, but throughout every journey. This reflects our commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions that are safe, connected, and progressive for modern India."
Mitsubishi Motors Launches All-New Pajero In Thailand Ahead Of Global Rollout
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Japanese automotive major Mitsubishi Motors has commenced sales of the Pajero cross-country SUV in Thailand, serving as the initial market for the model’s international release.
The Pajero’s production takes place at the Laem Chabang facility operated by Mitsubishi Motors in Chonburi Province, which functions as a manufacturing hub for export operations.
Shipments to Australia and Japan are scheduled ahead of market releases in mid-December, followed by sequential introductions across approximately 100 countries and regions in the Middle East and Latin America starting in fiscal 2027.
The Pajero integrates four-wheel-drive capability with passenger car handling characteristics and positioning as a flagship offering.
Keisuke Kishiura, President and Chief Operating Officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said, "We are delighted to begin sales of the all-new Pajero in Thailand as the first market for its global rollout. Thailand is not only an important market for Mitsubishi Motors, but also a key hub for our production and exports. The all-new Pajero is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors and is positioned among the top-tier cross-country SUVs in the Thai market. We will continue to deliver appealing products from Thailand to customers around the world and provide value that exceeds expectations."
Param Automotive Inaugurates Upgraded Mahindra Showroom In Ahmedabad
- By MT Bureau
- October 20, 2026
Param Automotive Group has inaugurated an upgraded dealership facility in Ahmedabad to mark its silver jubilee year.
Located at the site established in 2002, the facility spans 40,000 square feet and features display space for 18 vehicles.
The showroom includes customer lounges, delivery zones, accessory bays, test-drive areas and hospitality spaces to support vehicle sales and customer service operations.
BMW Group Expands Lucknow Facility To House MINI Brand Operations
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
BMW Group India has integrated the MINI brand into its Speed Motorwagen dealership in Lucknow, creating a multi-brand retail facility representing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof.
The Retail.NEXT facility is spread across a 12,142-square-foot showroom for BMW and MINI alongside a 2,088-square-foot pre-owned vehicle display area. The showroom accommodates eight BMW vehicles, three certified pre-owned units and two MINI vehicles.
The site also includes a 2,100-square-foot BMW Motorrad display area featuring 11 motorcycles, supported by dedicated service workshops comprising mechanical, electrical and programming bays. MINI's introduction in Uttar Pradesh aligns with the brand's national retail footprint, which spans 18 sales touchpoints across 17 cities.
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, "Lucknow is an important luxury market, with customers increasingly seeking brands that reflect their individuality and aspirations. Since 2012, BMW has shaped this market through a compelling portfolio, exceptional experiences and a strong local presence. We lead the luxury electric vehicle segment in Uttar Pradesh, reflecting the growing preference for progressive, sustainable mobility and the strength of our electric portfolio. MINI with its unmistakable style, spirited performance and distinctive character, is a natural fit for Lucknow’s refined taste and appreciation for self-expression. Together with Speed Motorwagen, we are strengthening the power of choice by bringing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof, supported by personalised attention and seamless ownership support."
Divij Narain, Dealer Principal of Speed Motorwagen, said, "The arrival of MINI marks a significant milestone for Speed Motorwagen and discerning automotive enthusiasts in Lucknow. Alongside BMW’s progressive luxury and BMW Motorrad’s spirit of freedom and adventure, MINI adds a distinctive new dimension to our portfolio. Our team is committed to bringing each brand to life through thoughtfully curated product discovery, expert consultation and comprehensive aftersales care. We look forward to nurturing passionate communities across all three brands and ensuring every customer interaction is as memorable and individual as the mobility experience they choose."
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