Skoda are hoping to shake the mid-size SUV sector with their newcomer the Karoq
Tim Barnes-Clay and Jonathan Humphrey from the European media launch of the strikingly good All New Skoda Karoq.
We recently flew to Palermo, to Sicily to drive the latest SUV from Skoda. This Karoq fits well in the Skoda range, a smaller SUV with the larger Kodiaq at the top. The Karoq is a cutting-edge replacement for the popular but ageing Yeti.
The All New Skoda Karoq is already available to order from dealers now. It will be available with a choice of three trim levels SE, SE-L and Edition. The levels of equipment in each version are generous, well selected and good value.
From launch, there will be a choice of four engine options, two petrol and two diesel with power outputs of 115PS and 150PS. All are available with a seven-speed DSG transmission as an option. The only model with four-wheel drive is the diesel 2.0 TDI 150PS.
Overall the Skoda Karoq makes for an extremely practical SUV, great for small families. The rear flexible Varioflex seating is useful for luggage and offers a variety of solutions to simply increase the load space when required.
The car is very well built with some nice touches around the vehicle, although slightly conservative in appearance, that is the niche that works very well for Skoda. There’s a great choice of colours and with the latest LED lighting and rear light signatures, the appearance of the SUV is striking.
We found all the models we tested at the launch easy to drive, all versions of engines we drove were well chosen for the job. Sadly we didn’t get to drive the 1-litre 115PS model. On the road there is a sporty feel to the drive with a commanding SUV driving position. We really liked the punchy 2.0TDI 150PS DSG as we spent the most time in it. The petrol 1.5TSI 150PS was also just as good now diesel is out of favour. We preferred the extra power, but dependent on your driving needs the 115PS variants are very good indeed.
The connectivity within the Karoq is very nicely executed with Apple carplay or android auto available. The solutions work well and all switch gear is well placed and easy to operate. There are many worthwhile safety systems in the Karoq which operate in a highly useful but unobtrusive manner.
Prices start at £20,660 for the 1.0TSI 115PS up to £31,435 for the 2.0TDI 150PS DSK 4×4 Edition.
With the Karoq, Skoda has a potential winning contender here for a particularly good mid-size compact and practical family SUV.
Car reviewed: Skoda Karoq Edition 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG 4×4 – On the road £31,690 0-62mph 8.1 secs Top speed 121mph Fuel Economy combined 54.3mpg CO2 emissions 137g/km Engine 2.0-litre TDI diesel Max Power 150PS@3500rpm Torque 340Nm@1750rpm Transmission 7-speed DSG
A perfect size, practical SUV
Well specced as standard
Great performance, comfortable and roomy
Slightly conservative looks
About the author
No items found, please search again.