Skoda India had a great array of models lined up for Auto Expo 2020. The models included the New Kodiaq, Rapid 1.0 TSI, the upgraded flagship model – Octavia RS 245 and the all new Karoq!
The Czech brand took the covers off the Skoda Karoq at the Auto Expo 2020 along with the announcement that this 5-seater SUV will be stationed below the Kodiaq. The model is built on the same platform as the New Volkswagen T-Roc and measures 4.5 metres in length. The Karoq will be brought into the country as a completely built unit wherein the company takes benefit from the “2500 – car import rule”. This rule gives the opportunity for the carmaker to bring in units of the model into the country without the need for any type of authoritarian figure formalizing the transfer.
Now, coming to the engine options, keeping in mind that Skoda Volkswagen India has been leaning towards petrol engines recently, let’s not expect models to be released with diesel engines. Therefore, as of now, the Skoda Karoq comes with a 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol engine which offers a power of 150hp (110 PS) along with a torque of 250Nm. The transmission system is a 7-speed DSG Automatic. If the power of this car is considered, then it is possible that the model can go from 0-100kmph within 9seconds and can reach a top speed of 202kmph.
Next, here’s an insight into the exterior of the model. The Karoq has the trademark butterfly grille, sleek LED headlights with AFS, DRLs, and LED tail-lamps. Along with these the model comes equipped with R17 Aronia 18” dual-tone alloy wheels. The wheels are squared and the taillights are C-shaped. The Karoq’s design is heavily inspired from the Kodiaq and it makes it look like a smaller Kodiaq, which is definitely not a bad thing. This car is built on VW’s MQB A0 platform and it’s essentially Skoda’s version of the VW T-Roc… which was VW’s version of the Audi Q2 so yeah! You get the point.
However, it’s the interiors of the model that truly “dresses to impress”. The Karoq comes equipped with a panoramic sunroof with a bounce-back system, 8” touchscreen with a SmartLink, dual-zone climate control, virtual cockpit, 12 way electrically adjustable driver seat with a memory function, Parktronic system, and a monitoring system for tyre pressure. There are 9 airbags fitted to the model, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX seat anchors for children. Finally, the seats of the car are stone beige leather seats.
The model is set to be released within the crowded mid-size segment. The rivals of the model within the Indian market include Tata Harrier, Hyundai Tucson, MG Hector, Volkswagen T-Roc, Mahindra XUV500, and Jeep Compass. Even though these are the rivals, the price of this model will be comparatively higher since its a CBU model. However, we’ll only know what the price is once the company reveals it.
