VAUXHALL has launched a Mokka Hybrid, its latest model to feature 48-volt hybrid technology for improved efficiency and lower emissions compared to equivalent petrol models.

Prices start from £25,320 with first deliveries commencing from June.

The new Mokka Hybrid completes Vauxhall's current range of hybrid vehicles, joining the Corsa, Astra, Astra Sport Tourer and Grandland in using its compact and efficient hybrid system.

They will be joined by the forthcoming Frontera Hybrid and All-New Grandland Hybrid.

In the Mokka Hybrid, the 48V powertrain features a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 0.89kWh.

Recharged automatically under certain driving conditions, it's mounted under the front passenger seat to ensure no reduction in boot space and for optimised handling.

The battery combines with a new generation of 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine specially developed for hybrid applications.

The engine is coupled to a new electrified six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission

designed specifically for use in hybrid powertrains. A permanent magnet synchronous electric motor is integrated into the gearbox and produces peak power of 21kW (28hp) and maximum torque of 55Nm.

Compared with the similar non-electrified Mokka 1.2 (130hp) with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new 136hp Mokka Hybrid offers an 18g/km reduction in CO2 emissions to 109- 110g/km CO2 as well as lower fuel consumption of 57.6mpg compared to 46.3mpg.

In everyday driving over a mixture of city streets, country roads and motorways, the Vauxhall Mokka Hybrid's petrol engine and electric motor operate together or separately to optimise energy consumption and performance.

The new powertrain is said to be particularly effective in city traffic - the electric motor allowing the Mokka Hybrid to be driven short distances of up to half a mile on electric power alone under low torque requirements such as when manoeuvring or driving under 18mph in urban traffic.

The e-motor also assists the petrol engine by delivering extra torque under acceleration, such as when launching from a standstill.

The hybrid has a a 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds - 0.1 seconds faster than the equivalent petrol model.

Drivers can choose between the three driving modes Eco, Normal and Sport. In Sport mode, the petrol engine is always running to ensure the required performance at all times.

The new Mokka Hybrid widens the powertrain options available, with the Mokka also available with a choice of two fully electric versions as well as two efficient petrol engines.

In line with Vauxhall's simplified trim line-up, the new Mokka Hybrid is available in GS and Ultimate specifications, as well as a special edition Griffin trim.

Griffin trim is exclusive to the Mokka range and features 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows and contrasting black roof.

Inside, it has a seven-inch touchscreen and similarly-sized digital instrument cluster, plus heated front seats and heated steering wheel.

All Griffin models feature LED headlights and daytime running lights, high beam assist, rear parking sensors and panoramic reversing camera. Also included is an array of driver-assistance tech, including lane departure warning with lane keep assist, speed sign recognition, driver drowsiness alert, cruise control and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

GS models feature red upper window mouldings and 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels with red accents, plus a black Griffin logo and Vizor frame at the front. Other enhancements over Griffin specification include Vauxhall's Multimedia Pure Panel Navigation system with a 10-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.

There is also electronic climate control, rain-sensitive windscreen wipers and an automatic anti-dazzle rearview mirror.

Completing the Mokka Hybrid line-up is the top-of-the-range Ultimate model, which add a number of class-leading features, including Vauxhall's IntelliLux adaptive LED Matrix headlights that provide enhanced visibility at night without dazzling other road users.

Safety is further bolstered by the addition of adaptive cruise control, lane positioning assistant, side blind spot alert and front and rear parking sensors. Additionally, keyless entry and start, Alcantara interior seat trim and a driver's seat massage function are also fitted.

The GS models are priced from £30,810 and Ultimate specification start from £34,115.