GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: Opel delivers caffeine hit

Although not confirmed for sale in Australia, Opel has released images of its new sub-compact SUV ahead of its international debut at the Geneva motor show in March.

According to Opel, the Mokka mini soft-roader is the first 'B segment' SUV from a German manufacturer and will introduce a number of technologies not seen before in this growing segment, which also includes the likes of BMW's X1 and Ford Kuga.

Some of these technologies will include driver assistance systems based on the Opel Eye front camera system, in which the driver can access several functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Traffic Sign Recognition.

The Mokka will also incorporate a rear view camera and Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+), a Bi-Xenon lighting system that includes High Beam Assist (HBA).

"The Opel Mokka takes its strengths from traditional, larger SUVs and fits them into a modern, compact format," says Opel CEO Karl-Friedrich Stracke.

Measuring 4.28 metres long, the Mitsubishi ASX-sized Mokka is said to seat five adults in an ergonomic seating arrangement certified by German healthy back expert organisation AGR.

The user-friendly interior will also boast up to 1372 litres of loading space, and up to 19 storage locations. Also available will be Opel's integrated rear bicycle carrier Flex-Fix, which functions like a drawer and can accommodate up to three bicycles at a time.

When it goes on sale in Europe in late-2012, the Mokka will be available with front- or all-wheel drive, three engines – two petrol and one diesel – and six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.

All manual transmission cars will be equipped with a fuel saving, start/stop system.

The entry-level 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 85kW or there's a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine offering 103kW and 200Nm. The 1.7-litre CDTI turbo diesel option produces 93kw/300Nm.

The Mokka's sporty styling incorporates Opel's trademark "blade" on the bodyside that sweeps upwards to the rear. Higher ground clearance (and tall seating position) adds to its rough road abilities, while its robust looks are enhanced by 18-inch alloy wheels available standard on Enjoy and Cosmo trim levels.

The Mokka will come with a host of standard safety features including stability and traction control as well as Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.

While the Mokka is one of many Opel models that could find their way into Aussie showrooms from 2013 onwards, Opel Australia has so far confirmed just three models for the German brand's launch Down Under in late-2012: the Corsa city car, the Astra small hatch and wagon, and the Insignia mid-size sedan.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site