Skoda Karoq arrives
Replacing the Yeti in Skoda’s range, the local version of the Karoq is limited to just the one 1.5-litre petrol-engined variant for now, but expect a diesel to be added in the future. The turbo petrol engine produces 110kW and 250Nm, with listed combined fuel economy of 5.7lt/100km when paired with the six-speed manual transmission. A seven-speed DSG auto is optional.
The debut mid-sizer is also 2WD only, but Skoda Australia have confirmed an AWD version with more power will be coming in 2019. A major plus with the Karoq is the luggage space offered. From a standard 479 litres with all seats occupied, the VarioFlex system that allows for the rear seats to be removed entirely increases capacity up to an impressive maximum of 1810 litres.
Standard features include 17-inch alloys, keyless entry with smart starting, LED DRLs, roof rails, adaptive cruise control, auto headlights and wipers, auto emergency braking, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure warning and driver fatigue detection.
Inside, there’s a ‘Bolero’ infotainment system with an 8-inch monitor, Bluetooth and voice control, as well as Android Auto and Apple Car Play compatibility, an 8-speaker sound system, dual zone air con, a leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel and twin tablet holders.
Cloth seat trim is standard, but this can be upgraded to leather accented upholstery with an optional Premium Pack; one of several to be offered from launch. Starting price is $29,990 for the Karoq 1.5 TSI manual, with the auto version listing for $32,990 (excl. ORCs). The Premium Pack, which adds features like 18-inch alloys, LED headlights, front parking sensors and a power tailgate, is a $3,600 extra.
A $3,200 Tech Pack adds hands-free tailgate opening, wireless charging, drive mode select, DAB+ digital radio, a 9.2-inch ‘Columbus’ sat nav system and upgrades the sound system to a 10-speaker unit. The $1,700 Travel Pack adds safety features like lane keep assist, side assist with blind spot detection and rear traffic alert, as well as power folding mirrors and heated front seats with power and memory function on the driver’s seat.
All the Karoq’s optional packs are bundled together into a special $8,900 Launch Pack, limited to 260 units, that also includes a 3 year/45,000km servicing package. Standalone options include a panoramic sunroof and 19-inch alloys. See your Skoda dealer for more details.