By Ian Strachan.
Skoda is clearly a company that knows its Ks and Qs. Each one of its three-model SUV range begins with a K and ends with a Q.
The recently updated Karoq is the middle child of Skoda’s SUV family. But its hand-me-downs are minimal and it has an identity all of its own. The Karoq is a well-priced, practical and comfortable SUV which has a lot to recommend it.
I tested the top-of-the-range Karoq SportLine which is powered by Skoda’s competent 2.0 litre 190 horsepower petrol engine. This version – at £42,345 – is quite a bit more expensive than other Karoqs, but it comes with four-wheel-drive, excellent performance, a wealth of technology and a high specification.
My test car married the engine to a smooth, stepless seven-speed automatic gearbox. The combination will propel you from 0-60mph in less than seven seconds with a top speed – where allowed – of 137 mph. Despite its performance, fuel economy is respectable at around 37 miles per gallon in mixed driving.
Pitched into one of the most intensely fought sectors against some well-established competition, the Karoq range gives you high build quality, good interior trim materials, high levels of safety and a very roomy interior with a variety of seating options to increase load carrying capabilities.
The Karoq has a quality feel to it inside and out, and it is certainly a good looker. It has a strong side-on presence, with a gently sloping roofline and black roof rails, door mirrors and radiator grille, big windows, a high waist and neatly sculpted side panels. Handsome 19 inch anthracite grey alloys add to its side-on style. It also looks sharp and purposeful from the front.
Inside the car has a lot of class about it. My test vehicle had black upholstery of a surprisingly high quality. The front sports seats and rear seats are heated, as is the multi-function steering wheel. The dash is simple and attractive, with a central 9.2 inch touchscreen infotainment and satellite navigation system.
Specification on the SportLine spec which I tested includes adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, dual-zone climate control, electric heated door mirrors, electric tailgate, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, hill descent control and, of course, Skoda’s trademark umbrella under the passenger seat.
Other standard features include all-round airbags, rear LED lights, panoramic powered sunroof, LED automatic headlights with cornering function, rain-sensing wipers, metallic paint and a range of safety features.
Ride and handling are comfortable and predictable. Suspension is firm but rides potholes without too much drama.
For those wanting to save the planet the Karoq currently has no hybrid or electric options.
Despite the price for this spec, you get a lot of car for your money. My test car also had a removable automatic tow bar with adaptor at an extra £1,155.
It’s difficult to fault this offering from Skoda which is winning awards and deservedly so.
