Skoda Karoq to be launched in April

We had earlier reported that the Karoq will be brought to Indian shores soon. The company has announced that it will officially launch the Karoq in India in April of this year. The Karoq is a compact SUV that will compete with the likes of the T Roc and the Jeep Compass. Skoda only has the Kodiaq costs above 30 lakhs ex showroom therefore cant be a product that appeals to the masses. With the compact SUV segment becoming ever so popular in the country this will be the right time for Skoda to bring out this SUV.

Overview of the Skoda Karoq

The Skoda Karoq isn’t supposed to be the big flashy SUV that Indians are used to at this price point, nor will it have the brand value of its German rivals. It will be a reliable product with a fantastic gearbox and also a practical SUV with loads of luggage space on offer. The size of the SUV could also be considered as an advantage if you do not require seven seats, in terms of manoeuvrability. Its road presence also makes it look like a proper SUV and a bit more out there than the Tiguan.

Coming from the same family, both the products will have lots of shared components, with the design being a major difference.

Engine

The Skoda Karoq will come with BS6 ready engines. It will be mated to a DSG gearbox.

 Globally the Karoq is offered in a host of engine options ranging from a 1.0L TSI producing 115hp to a 2.0L TDI producing 190hp. Although in India, initially, we expect the car to be offered in its petrol guise with the 1.

5L TSI being offered in the 150hp tune, especially with the BS6 regulations and the surge in demand of the petrol cars. It will be coupled with the tried and tested 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. There could also be a manual offered in a lower variant model.

Interior and features

The interior of the Skoda Karoq will be similar to the Octavia in terms of its design by getting a dual tone treatment and the feature list shall include a fully digital instrument console, 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start with keyless entry, leather upholstery, rear AC vents and a panoramic sunroof.

Skoda Karoq pricing

The Skoda Karoq will be imported to India in CBU form from Czech Republic, and so, it will likely cost over INR 25 lakh (ex-showroom). Local assembly will be considered later if there is enough demand in our market. The car has been sold internationally. Skoda had also earlier unvieled at the Auto Expo 2020. It will be similar to the T Roc as it will be brought in India via the CBU route.