Skoda has unveiled the all-new Karoq at a special
event in Stockholm. The Karoq is a
stylish crossover with a sculpted hood, a slender grille, and optional LED
headlights. The model also has muscular wheel arches, plastic body cladding,
and chiseled bodywork.
Rounding out the styling features are a tailgate-mounted
spoiler, distinctive taillights, and an assortment of wheels ranging in sizes
from 16- to 19-inches. Overall, the crossover measures 4,382 mm long, 1,841 mm wide, and 1,605 mm tall with a wheelbase that
spans up to 2,638 mm.
The interior is relatively straightforward but the
Karoq becomes the first Skoda model to be offered with a digital instrument
cluster. Customers can also order a heated steering wheel, heated front / rear
seats, and LED ambient lighting. Other highlights include a wireless smartphone
charger and infotainment systems with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
compatibility.
Buyers more interested in space will be happy to
know the Karoq offers 521 liters of cargo capacity behind the
rear seats. However, that number can be increased to 1,630 liters when the rear seats are folded down. If that's still not enough room, the
seats can be removed entirely to create a maximum cargo capacity of 1,810
liters.
Under the hood, five different engines will be
available including:
- A 1.0-liter TSI with 115 PS and 175 Nm of torque
- A 1.5-liter TSI with 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque
- A 1.6-liter TDI with 115 PS and 250 Nm of torque
- A 2.0-liter TDI with 150 PS and 340 Nm of torque
- A 2.0-liter TDI with 190 PS and 400 Nm of torque
Most of the engines can be connected to either a
six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG transmission, expect the most powerful
diesel variant which comes standard with all-wheel drive and the DSG gearbox.
On the safety front, the Karoq offers an assortment
of driver assistance systems including Park Assist, Lane Assist, and Traffic
Jam Assist. Other highlights include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot
Detect, Emergency Assist, and Front Assist with predictive pedestrian protection.