Skoda Karoq: Top 5 Highlights

The ongoing lockdown has forced Skoda to delay the launch of the new Karoq. While we wait for the pricing and to drive the car here in India, here’s everything you need to know about the Karoq

Over the past decade or so, Skoda has always had just one SUV in their line-up – at first, it was the Yeti, and soon after it was discontinued, the Kodiaq. With Skoda’s new India 2.0 Project, it has been clear that the brand’s focus on SUVs is likely to increase. And that starts with the upcoming Karoq. Skoda has already commenced bookings of the new Karoq and was expected to launch it this month, but due to the nation-wide lockdown extended till 30th April, the launch has been delayed. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Karoq before it hits the roads:

1.)    Exterior and Interior Features: While Skoda has multiple variants of the Karoq on offer in the international market, here in India it will only come in a single trim. It is likely to come with full LED headlights with Daytime Running Lamps, LED taillights and 17-inch alloy wheels. Other features on the outside also include a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, Karoq-badged door sills at the front and electrically adjustable ORVMs. 

On the inside, the Karoq gets a decent list of features and equipment including a touchscreen infotainment system which is paired to a 12-speaker audio system, a fully-digital instrument cluster, electrically adjustable ORVMs, electrically adjustable driver seat with memory function, panoramic sunroof, and more. The Karoq also features a dual-zone climate control with AC vents at the back, ambient lighting, and loads of practical bits like a small trash can on the driver side and a cup holder in the central armrest. 

Being a Skoda, it is safe to assume that the Karoq will score high in terms of safety features. The mid-sized SUV comes with as many as 9 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC driver fatigue monitor, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.     

2.)    Clever solutions: Just like the Kodiaq, the Karoq too will feature some simply clever solutions inside the cabin. To start with, the smaller Karoq too gets the portable magnetic boot light that can be easily removed. Other smart features include bag hooks in the boot and Velcro luggage separators. While some variants internationally also come with Skoda’s Vario Flex seats, a tablet holder for rear passengers, a foldable table with a cup holder, wireless charging and more, there’s no clarity on which of these will make it to the India spec model. 

3.)    Engine: In the global market, the Karoq is on sale with petrol as well as a diesel motor. In India, however, Skoda will only be launching the Karoq with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol motor. This engine pushes 148bhp and 250Nm to the front wheels and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.   

4.)    Dimensions:

5.)    Competition: This is where things get a bit tricky for the Karoq. While in terms of size it is only marginally bigger than the newly launched Hyundai Creta or the Kia Seltos, in terms of pricing it is likely to compete against the likes of the Jeep Compass. This, of course, is thanks to the fact that the Karoq will be brought into India via the CBU route. 

We had a chance to take the Karoq for a quick spin at Skoda’s headquarters in Czech Republic. Follow the link to read our detailed review.

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