Just yesterday, Skoda took the wraps off the Karoq
Scout, taking its compact crossover in a more rugged direction than the
standard model. Now it’s revealed the Karoq Sportline, adopting a sportier approach.
Like the Scout version, the new Sportline trim is
mostly cosmetic. But it does get a more powerful engine: a 2.0-liter turbo four
reserved exclusively for this version, producing 190 hp. It
gives us an idea, at any rate, of what a Karoq RS could look like, should Skoda
ever choose to build one.
The 2.0 TSI is not the only engine offered, though:
buyers will also be able to specify a less
potent 1.5-liter gasoline engine rated at 150 hp or a 2.0-liter
turbodiesel offered at the same power increments as the petrols. Depending on
the engine, power can be routed to just the front wheels or all four through a
six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Regardless of powertrain options, the Karoq
Sportline packs sportier-looking bumpers, tinted windows, body-colored and
blacked-out trim, and 18- or 19-inch wheel choices. The interior’s been worked
over too, with black textile upholstery, contrasting stitching, black headliner
and pillars, stainless-steel pedals, three-spoke sports steering wheel, and LED
ambient lighting.
Both the Sportline and Scout versions of the Karoq
are due to be unveiled to the public for the first time at the Paris Motor Show
this fall, and stand to further broaden the model’s appeal to a wider variety
of customers – even if none of those will be found in America.
