ŠKODA’S NEW SUV AWD ENTRANT, the Karoq arrives in June. This week, Škoda has confirmed pricing of its Karoq range.
Entering the hotly contested medium-size SUV category, sharp pricing will be crucial to the Karoq’s success.
Starting from $32,990, the 2020 Karoq 110TSI is powered by a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that puts out 110kW/250Nm via an 8-speed Aisin transmission and the front wheels. The family-focussed Karoq variant comes standard with Varioflex, a fixture that enables the complete removal of the back seats.
With rear seats fitted and fully pushed back, the Karoq’s luggage compartment delivers 479 litres. Push these seats forward and the space increases to 588 litres. Fold them flat and you have 1605 litres. Take them out – a task easily accomplished – and there’s a massive 1810 litres to fill.
The long awaited Karoq 140TSI Sportline 4×4 starts at $39,990.
Powered by the 2.0-litre turbo petrol EA888, the Sportline puts 140kW and 320Nm to the road via a 7-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel-drive. Drive mode select is standard.
Riding on 19-inch Vega alloys, the Sportline features a black accented body kit and full LED headlights with adaptive front light system. The look is carried over within with features including a multifunction sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles, perforated leather upholstery and stainless steel pedals. As with all Model Year 20 Škodas (with the exception of the Fabia), Virtual Cockpit is standard.
The 140TSI Sportline is the second Škoda Australia model to be fitted with a petrol particulate filter, an item key to its availability.
“This version of the Karoq, the sporting choice, is built at our Czech factory with a filtered engine,” Škoda Australia Director Michael Irmer said. “We emphasise the necessity of using premium fuel only. You’ll be rewarded with the most engaging drive of any SUV at this price.”
The Karoq has been available as a front-wheel-drive variant only since 2018 and available in limited numbers due to supply constraints. The renewed Karoq’s arrival, along with the Kodiaq RS later this month and the compact Kamiq in July, completes the growing brand’s SUV range.
“Škoda’s Karoq now comes in two distinct versions,” Mr Irmer said. “Both satisfy almost contrasting purposes while embodying the characteristics that distinguish Škodas both from price competitors and far more expensive vehicles from prestige brands. Our customers are almost uniquely informed and engaged with the brand. As it is likely that 2020 will be the first year that Škoda Australia sells more SUVs than passenger cars, it’s fitting that there are now two Simply Clever Karoqs.”
Once we have tested and assessed the new Škoda Karoq, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.