Skoda Karoq SUV launched: Massively PRICIER than the more powerful Jeep Compass

Skoda Auto India earlier this year at the Auto Expo revealed their new Karoq mid-size SUV. Skoda had planned to launch it in the market last month but had to delay it because of the lock down necessitated by the Corona virus pandemic. Today, Skoda Auto India has launched Karoq SUV in India and the mid-size SUV is priced at Rs 24.99 lakh, ex-showroom. Skoda Karoq is a mid-size SUV and competes with cars like Jeep Compass in the segment. Bookings for Karoq SUV had already started and the deliveries are expected to start soon. The Karoq is a completely built unit imported into India just like its sibling – the Volkswagen T-Roc, and this is the biggest reason for the hefty price tag.

The Karoq is a sharp looking SUV and looks like a smaller version of the Kodiaq 7-seater SUV. It gets all LED headlamp units with LED DRLs, LED tail lamps, sporty looking alloy wheels and so on. The Karoq is a premium SUV and has a plush looking interior. Just like the exterior, the interiors also gets a premium touch. It has leather upholstery that makes the cabin look a bit more airy, neatly laid out dashboard, touchscreen infotainment system, ambient lighting, a huge panoramic sunroof, and more.

Also read: Skoda Karoq (Jeep Compass rival) launch delayed due to coronavirus

The instrument cluster on the Karoq is fully digital and Skoda calls it the virtual cockpit. The driver side seat is electrically adjustable and on the safety front, Karoq gets features like up to 9 airbags, ABS, EBD and so on. It is available in only one trim and will be sold as a completely built unit that is one of the reason why Karoq is not getting a competitive price tag.

Coming to the engine bit, Karoq is only available with a petrol engine. As part of Skoda’s new brand philosophy, they giving up on diesel engines and are instead concentrating on petrol engined vehicles. Skoda Karoq is powered by a 1.5 litre turbocharged petrol engine. The 1.5 TSI engine generates a maximum of 150 Ps and 250 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox and will not be getting the 4×4  version. What this means is, it’s not really great value but for those who want to stay within the Skoda brand, it still may make sense. Skoda’s real play in the SUV segment will begin next year, when the Vision IN concept will hit production in India, as a rival to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

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