Skoda plans to get 5 new products for India this year, the much-awaited Karoq being one of them. Skoda entered into the SUV market with the launch of the Kodiaq that came only in a seven-seater guise, with large overhangs from the rear but it proved to be practical as it provided seating for 7. With the Indian market being raided by SUVs, Skoda has confirmed of the Karoq to be launched soon after the Auto expo 2020.

Skoda Karoq Competition

The Karoq is a 5 seater mid-size SUV based on the Volkswagen group’s MQB platform that is seen in many cars. Design-wise, it has proportionate dimensions with the rear getting a slightly coupè like the design to not keep things as uptight as its immediate competitor the VW Tiguan. This car should help to gather sales for Skoda India as it will be priced lower than Skoda Kodiaq. Creating some much-needed gap between it and the entry-level SUVs offered by premium brands such as Audi, Mercedes and BMW. The Karoq is expected to be launched in India via the CBU route since the import rules have been eased for car manufacturers. The Octavia vrs245 also will be brought in via the CBU route and would be euro specked as this would make more sense for Skoda.

Skoda Karoq

 

Engines and transmission

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.

The Skoda Karoq isn’t supposed to be the big flashy SUV that Indians are used to at this price point, nor will 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.

Since it will be brought in to the country via the CBU route, prices are not expected to be overly competitive. It is anticipated to be starting around the 28 lakh ex-showroom mark. This would obviously be different depending on the variants to choose form. Meanwhile, you can check out our detailed review on the Skoda Kodiaq –

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  • The mentioned price too high.. if priced between 17 to 20 lakhs.. then it will create a big impact both in sales and SUV segment