It is clear from the exterior shape, modified lines and larger dimensions that this is a completely new vehicle. The ŠKODA KAROQ is a sports utility vehicle with character: The emotive and dynamic design with numerous crystalline elements characterises ŠKODA’s new SUV design language.
The compact SUV measures 4,382 mm in length, is 1,841 mm wide, and 1,605 mm high. The long wheelbase of 2,638 millimetres (all-wheel version: 2,630 mm) gives the ŠKODA KAROQ a comfortable stance on the road. The increase in size benefits the passengers. The legroom is 68 millimetres.
The ŠKODA brand stands for an exceptional package. This also applies to the new KAROQ. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 521 litres with the back seats in place. With the rear seats folded down, the volume increases to 1,630 litres. In combination with the optional VarioFlex rear seat, the boot space is variable and can hold between 479 and 588 litres. The seats can also be completely removed – and the SUV becomes a van with a maximum loading capacity of 1,810 litres.
Segment leader: connectivity solutions
The ŠKODA KAROQ is at the top of its segment with innovative connectivity solutions. The infotainment building blocks come from the second generation of the Group's modular infotainment kit, offering state-of-the-art functions, interfaces and equipped with capacitive touch displays. The top systems Columbus and Amundsen have a WLAN hotspot. An optional LTE module is available for the Columbus system. The Internet connection is based on today’s fastest mobile radio standard, with which passengers can surf and access email freely with their phones and tablets.
The new mobile online services ŠKODA Connect are LTE-compatible and are divided into two categories: Infotainment online services are used for information and navigation; the CareConnect services for assistance in case of breakdowns and emergencies. The Emergency Call button, which will come as standard in Europe in 2018, is now available as a Care-Connect service. Additional online services can be accessed via the ŠKODA Connect app. These can be used to remotely check, configure and find the car via a smartphone.
The intelligent networking between car and smartphone has reached a new level in the ŠKODA KAROQ. The SmartLink+ platform, compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLinkTM, is available as an option for the basic infotainment system Swing. SmartLink+ comes as standard with higher infotainment systems. The phone box with inductive charging couples the smartphone to the roof antenna and simultaneously charges it wirelessly.
Reliable helpers: Driver assistance systems
The ŠKODA KAROQ offers a comprehensive range of driver assistance systems. New comfort systems include the parking assistant, Lane Assist and traffic-jam assistant. Blind Spot Detect, Front Assist with predictive pedestrian protection and Emergency Assistant serve to increase safety. The ŠKODA KAROQ can tow trailers of up to two tonnes. The new trailer assistant helps when reversing slowly and manoeuvring.
Additional driver-assistance systems are available for the ŠKODA KAROQ to keep the car at a safe distance from the car ahead, make it easier for the driver to change and keep in lane, point out important traffic signs, and assist in parking.
The freely programmable digital instrument panel is available for the first time in a ŠKODA. In the ŠKODA KAROQ, the cockpit displays can be set to the driver’s individual wishes.
Full LED headlights with clear-lens optics are available as an option for the ŠKODA KAROQ from the Ambition equipment line and higher. In the interior, new LED ambient lighting in the decor strips of doors and the dashboard creates a pleasant atmosphere, which can be set in ten colours.
Powerful and agile: Engines and chassis
The ŠKODA KAROQ offers state-of-the-art technologies for engines. Five engine variants – two petrol and three diesel engines – are on offer. The two petrol engines and two diesels are new in the line-up. The displacement ranges are 1.0, 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0 litres; the power range is from 85 kW (115 hp) to 140 kW (190 hp). All drivetrains are turbo-charged direct injection units and feature start-stop technology and brake energy recovery. They are extremely economical and comply with EU 6 regulations. With the exception of the most powerful diesel, all drivetrains can be ordered with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed DSG. The 2.0 TDI with 140 kW (190 hp) comes as standard with 4×4 drive and 7-speed DSG. The new 1.5 TSI has the special feature of cylinder deactivation.
The ŠKODA KAROQ chassis also sets benchmarks in its segment and demonstrates its quality even off the beaten track. With the equipment line Ambition and higher, a driving profile selection with the modes Normal, Sport, Eco, Individual and Snow (4x4) is available on request. The Off-road mode with all-wheel-drive improves the driving characteristics on rough terrain.
Strategy 2025: ŠKODA drives SUV campaign forward
As part of ŠKODA’s Strategy 2025, the brand will be continually expanding the model range over the coming years. The primary focus will be on broadening the SUV range. Most recently, the ŠKODA KODIAQ became the brand’s first large SUV to be launched in the international markets. With the ŠKODA KAROQ, the company has now reached the next milestone. The new compact SUV celebrates its world premiere on 18 May in Stockholm; the market launch is set for the second half of 2017.