If you're looking for a small SUV, the choice can be overwhelming. The compact crossover class is packed with contenders, but two of the most popular are the Vauxhall Mokka and the Ford Puma. Both offer sharp styling and the option of electric power, but they go about their business in very different ways.
The Mokka is all about its bold, head-turning design, marking a huge step up from its predecessor. It aims to win you over with its striking looks and a tech-filled interior. The Puma, on the other hand, puts the focus on a fun driving experience and class-leading practicality, including a boot that’s surprisingly clever. So, which of these stylish small SUVs is the better all-rounder?
Vauxhall Mokka vs Ford Puma
- Practicality
- Driving Impressions
- Technology and Equipment
- Running Costs
- CarGurus Buyer Insights
- Verdict
Practicality
Vauxhall Mokka practicality score: 3/5
Ford Puma practicality score: 4/5
The Ford Puma is a lesson in smart packaging. Although it’s based on the small Ford Fiesta, it has a good amount of interior space. Rear-seat legroom is adequate for kids, though taller adults might find it a squeeze on long trips. What really sets the Puma apart is its boot. At 456 litres, it’s one of the biggest in the class, and it features the brilliant ‘MegaBox’ – a deep, waterproof storage area under the floor that’s perfect for stashing muddy boots.
The Vauxhall Mokka prioritises style over space. Its sharp design looks great, but the sloping roofline eats into rear headroom, making it tight for anyone over six feet tall. The boot is also smaller than the Puma's, at 350 litres (or 310 litres in the electric Mokka-e), and a high loading lip can make it awkward to lift heavy items in and out. For outright practicality and clever storage, the Puma is the clear winner.
Driving Impressions
Vauxhall Mokka driving score: 3/5
Ford Puma driving score: 5/5
If you enjoy driving, the Ford Puma is one of the best small crossovers you can buy. It feels agile and responsive, with sharp steering and well-controlled handling that makes it genuinely fun on a twisty road. The ride is a good balance of comfort and control, especially on models with smaller wheels. The 1.0-litre mild-hybrid petrol engines are punchy and efficient, while the all-electric Puma Gen-E offers brisk, quiet acceleration.
The Vauxhall Mokka offers a wider range of engines, including petrol, diesel, and electric options. It’s a competent and easy car to drive around town, with the more powerful petrol engine feeling particularly smooth. However, it’s not as engaging as the Puma. The ride can feel a bit firm over bumps, and the steering feels vague, which means you often have to make small corrections on the motorway. It gets the job done, but it won’t put a smile on your face like the Puma can.
Technology and Equipment
Vauxhall Mokka technology and equipment score: 3/5
Ford Puma technology and equipment score: 4/5
Both cars come with plenty of modern tech. Entry-level Mokka models get a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a good list of safety kit. Higher-spec versions add a larger 10.0-inch central screen and a 12.0-inch digital driver’s display, which looks smart. You can also get features like matrix LED headlights that cleverly shape their beam to avoid dazzling other drivers.
The Puma is also well-equipped from the get-go. Following a recent update, all models now come with a large 12-inch touchscreen running Ford’s latest SYNC 4 software. It’s quick, easy to use, and includes wireless smartphone mirroring as standard, which is a nice touch. While the Mokka offers some high-end features on its top trims, the Puma’s impressive standard infotainment system gives it a more modern feel across the entire range.
Running Costs
Vauxhall Mokka running costs score: 3/5
Ford Puma running costs score: 5/5
The Ford Puma is an affordable car to run. Its mild-hybrid petrol engines can officially return over 50mpg, which is competitive for the class. Where the Puma really shines is with the electric Gen-E model. Ford’s ‘Power Promise’ package includes perks like free servicing and a contribution to your charging costs, making it an attractive proposition for EV buyers.
The Vauxhall Mokka’s running costs are more of a mixed bag. Its list price is a bit higher than some rivals, and its petrol engines aren’t quite as frugal as the Puma’s in the real world. The main draw is the electric Mokka-e, which benefits from zero road tax and very low company car tax rates, making it a financially savvy choice for business users. For private buyers, however, the Puma’s overall package of efficiency and ownership benefits is hard to beat.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
| Vauxhall Mokka | Ford Puma | |
|---|---|---|
| CarGurus expert rating | 3 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating | 4.8 out of 5 | 3.9 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* | 28.3% | 34.3% |
| Overall CarGurus rating | 4.2 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Vauxhall Mokka Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2/5
Ford Puma Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5/5
While both the Vauxhall Mokka and Ford Puma are strong contenders in the small SUV market, they appeal to different priorities. The Mokka is a style-led choice with a striking design and a modern interior, but it makes compromises on practicality and driving fun to achieve its looks.
Based on our comprehensive CarGurus ratings, the Ford Puma is the winner. It scores a higher 4.5 out of 5, thanks to its superb blend of practicality, low running costs, and an engaging driving experience that sets it apart from nearly all its rivals. Its huge, clever boot is a real trump card for families, and the recently updated technology keeps it feeling fresh.
If your number one priority is turning heads, the Vauxhall Mokka is a fine choice and has a lot of visual appeal. But for buyers looking for the best all-round package, the Ford Puma’s superior space, fun-to-drive nature, and strong value make it our recommended small SUV.
Vauxhall Mokka Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Bold and distinctive styling | Cramped rear passenger space |
| Wide range of powertrains | Smaller boot than key rivals |
| Low BIK tax for electric Mokka-e | Uninspiring to drive |
Ford Puma Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun and engaging to drive | Rear seats are tight for tall adults |
| Large and practical boot with 'MegaBox' | Interior isn't as stylish as the Mokka's |
| Efficient engines and low running costs | Infotainment now controls climate functions |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.