skoda karoq tour

• Car Reviews

Skoda Karoq review

Quite posh, lots of room, decent value for money

Very little of note, besides not being very interesting

What is it?

Between the seven-seat Skoda Kodiaq and the entry-level Kamiq , Skoda offers up the Karoq, which parks in the spot vacated by the weird and wonderful Yeti . So it’s a midsize crossover which shares its building blocks with the Seat Ateca and, along with the Seat , it’ll compete with the Nissan Qashqai and a million cars like it.

It’s slightly longer, wider and roomier than the Yeti, and looks like, well, a Skoda. Boxy and angular, now updated for 2022 with that wider grille. 'Karoq', you ask? Skoda’s naming strategy involves an Alaskan island and a linguistic workout.

What have I got to choose from?

For the 2022 facelift there are three trim levels: the SE Drive, SE L and bodykitted Sportline with its racy seats and black detailing. Engines comprise a 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder, 1.5-litre four-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-pot petrol (the former manual only, the latter DSG auto only) and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel with two different power outputs and a choice of manual or DSG transmission.

The most powerful versions of each 2.0-litre engine are available with all-wheel drive, but most Karoqs are front-wheel drive and none the worse for it. 

What's the Karoq's most remarkable feature?

Well if you're familiar with Skoda's built-in car park ticket holder and ice-scraper in the fuel filler flap then you might struggle for true surprise and delight. Skoda says the interior now features more recycled materials, there's new all-LED matrix headlights and improved aerodynamics thanks to new wheels with aero faced spokes to help cut drag and CO2 emissions.

But does it matter the Karoq isn't dripping with mind-blowing features? Pretty much no mid-sized crossover is... but it's handsome, well-built, spacious and easy-going. 

Our choice from the range

What's the verdict?

The Karoq might have lost its predecessor’s personality, but on every other front it’s a better car than the one it replaces, and we've just about forgiven it these days. It's a deeply worthy, sensible, inoffensive car that will go about family life in a faithful and fuss-free way without any major gripes or annoyances. Plus, given Volkswagen and BMW are currently on a design and tech self-sabotage mission there's a lot to be said for choosing the Karoq's unpretentiousness over a supposedly more premium rival's foolhardy design. We very much like the Karoq overall. It's just sometimes a bit tricky to remember exactly why.

Nissan Qashqai

Volkswagen Tiguan

Here are 12 electric pickups you need to know about

Tesla Cybertruck

These are the 12 best hot hatches of all time

Top Gear's top 20 electric cars

Trending this week, here are nine of the very best subarus ever made*, volvo xc60 black edition review: cynical special edition or must have collectible, mercedes eqs: update brings 500+ mile range and standard-fit hyperscreen, the beginner's guide to subaru, texas tuner electrifies the jaguar e-type, gives it 300 silent horsies, subscribe to the top gear newsletter.

Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox.

Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox.

By clicking subscribe, you agree to receive news, promotions and offers by email from Top Gear and BBC Studios. Your information will be used in accordance with our privacy policy .

Sorry, something went wrong

Try BBC Top Gear Magazine

• Automagazin
• Testberichte

Skoda Karoq Tour (Test 2022): Wie gut ergänzen sich Modellpflege und Sondermodell?

Sie surfen gerade mit einem veralteten browser..

Bitte aktualisieren Sie Ihren Browser, um Meinauto.de zu nutzen.

Skoda schärft mit seiner Modellpflege die Qualitäten des Karoq nach. Ob das aufgefrischte SUV als Jahressondermodell Karoq Tour der Konkurrenz die Schneid abkauft? Ein Testbericht.

Inhalte des Testberichts zum Skoda Karoq Tour:

• Technische Daten

Konkurrenzmodelle

• Unser Fazit

Fünf Jahre Garantie, interessante Extras und 2.200 Euro Rabatt

2017 folgte der Skoda Karoq dem Yeti, dem ersten Skoda-SUV nach: ein Typ mit Ecken und Kanten. Dem Karoq ist es in den vergangenen vier Jahren aber gelungen, ein eigenes Profil zu entwickeln. Trotzdem, nach gängiger Marktlogik muss nach vier Jahren ein Facelift präsentiert werden. Diese Logik bedingt bei Skoda, dass es alle drei bis vier Jahre zu einer besonderen Konstellation kommen muss: ein Jahressonder- und ein Facelift-Modell oder eine neue Generation vereinen sich zu einer Art Doppelstern. Ob dieser bald verglüht oder lange strahlt, ist am Beginn nicht zu entscheiden.

Wir werden das Doppelsystem im Test deshalb genau beobachten – und beginnen mit einem Signal, das stets für reges Interesse sorgt: ein Rabatt. Der Skoda Karoq Tour startet mit einem Preis von 29.090 Euro. Damit ist er knapp 4.000 Euro teurer als das Einstiegsmodell Karoq Active – und 1.600 Euro teurer als der Karoq Ambition. Rechnet man alle “Tour”-Extras ein, steht unterm Strich – verglichen mit dem “Ambition”-Modell – aber ein netter Preisvorteil von fast 2.200 Euro. Damit erwartet die Kunden beim Karoq Tour der zweithöchste Rabatt, den die sechs “Tour”-Modelle zu bieten haben; nur der  Kodiaq Tour lockt mit einem höheren Preisabschlag.

Für Vielfahrer interessant

Der Preisvorteil gegenüber einem vergleichbar ausgestatteten Karoq Ambition ist jedoch nur ein Teil des “Tour”-Pakets. Ein zweiter ist die Garantieverlängerung. Skoda verlängert die übliche, zweijährige Herstellergarantie um 3 Jahre bzw. 50.000 Kilometer. Für 250 respektive 600 Euro kann die Laufleistung auf 100.000 bzw. 150.000 Kilometer erweitert werden: damit können auch Vielfahrer arbeiten.

Sie dürften auch mit einem Ausstattungspaket ihre besondere Freude haben, das im Karoq Tour serienmäßig an Bord ist: das “Komfort Plus”-Paket (bei “Ambition” 650 Euro Aufpreis). Es ersetzt die manuelle Klimaanlage durch die Klimaautomatik “Climatronic” mit 2-Zonen-Temperaturregelung; die 3-Zonen-Regelung kostet 270 Euro extra und lohnt sich nicht zuletzt für Familien. Die Kinder auf den Rücksitzen werden die Investition zu schätzen wissen – oder sich über die richtige Temperatur streiten: auch hier ist der Ausgang offen. In jedem Fall verfeinert das “Komfort Plus”-Paket die Vordersitzen noch mit anpassbaren Lendenwirbelstützen; und das Fond mit abgedunkelten Fensterscheiben (Sunset-Verglasung).

Effizientere Verbrenner – aber weiter keine Stromer

Ein letztes “Komfort Plus”-Extra fehlt uns noch, das schlüssellose Start- und Zugangssystem “ Kessy “. Ein herkömmlicher Schlüssel ist zweifelsohne gut genug. Doch es hat schon etwas, den Schlüssel nicht ständig aus der Tasche ziehen zu müssen, um den Karoq Tour zu starten bzw. auf- und zuzusperren. Als weiteren wertvollen Komfortgewinn – für Vielfahrer wie Familien – würden wird auch das zweite “Tour”-Ausstattungspaket “Winter Plus” im Gegenwert von 720 Euro verbuchen. Es rüstet sowohl die Scheibenwaschdüsen wie die Vorder- und die äußeren Rücksitze mit einer Heizung aus; die Windschutzscheibe beheizt das Paket nur, wenn unter der Haube mehr als 110 PS schnauben.

Das ist im überarbeiteten Karoq bei sechs von sieben Antriebsvarianten der Fall. Nur der Dreizylinder-Turbobenziner 1,0 TSI mit exakt 110 PS scheitert an dieser Vorgabe (Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert WLTP: 5,8 Liter auf 100 km, 132 g/km CO2 und Energieeffizienzklasse B). Den Einliter-Benziner hat Skoda bereits Ende 2020 erneuert und gegen die Version aus VWs jüngster Evo-Motoren-Generation ausgetauscht. Auch die beiden anderen Motoren entstammen mittlerweile der Evo-Reihe: der Vierzylinder-Turbobenziner 1,5 TSI mit 150 PS und der Vierzylinder-Turbobenziner 2,0 TDI mit 115 bzw. 150 PS (Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert WLTP: 6,1/4,8-5,6 Liter auf 100 km, 140/125-149 g/km CO2 und Energieeffizienzklasse B/A).

Verbesserte Verbrauchs- und Emissionwerte

Die Benziner arbeiten mit einem höheren Einspritzdruck und nutzen Zylinder-Kurbelgehäuse, die hauchdünn plasmabeschichtet sind. Der Evo-Diesel setzt auf eine optimierte Abgasführung, ein verbessertes Thermomanagement und eine doppelte Abgasreinigung (Twindosing-Verfahren). Das gemeinsame Ziel dieser Maßnahmen: die Emissionen und den Verbrauch zu reduzieren. Die Evo-Motoren schlagen sich in dieser Hinsicht besser als die Vorgänger, überragend sind sie in puncto Verbrauch allerdings weiterhin nicht. Sechs bis sieben Liter bei den Otto- und fünf bis sechs Liter bei den Dieselmotoren sind eher die Regel als die Ausnahme.

Angesichts dessen würde dem Motorensortiment des Karoq Tour ein alternativer Antrieb gut tun. Den gibt es aber nach der Modellpflege ebenso wenig wie vorher. Schade, Konkurrenten wie der Kia Sportage oder der Opel Grandland sind in dieser Hinsicht weiter. Doch was wäre das Leben ohne kleine Schrullen und Schwächen – vor allem wenn man sich wie der Karoq a) nur gelegentlich welche leistet und b) wenn man die Schwächen mit vielen Stärken kompensieren kann.

Extras werten Interieur & Infotainment auf

Zu den traditionellen Stärken eines Skoda zählen die Funktionalität sowie das Platz- und Stauraumangebot. Sie zeichnen auch den Skoda Karoq aus – und das seit dem Marktart. Weder die Modellpflege noch die “Tour”-Sonderausstattungen mussten in diesem Bereich  nachbessern. Im 4,38 Meter langen Kompakt-SUV sitzen Fahrer und Fahrgäste erfreulich frei und unbedrängt.

Vorne wird es erst ab einer Größe von fast zwei Metern eng, auf den Rücksitzen erst bei knapp 3,990 Metern. Der Kofferraum lässt 521 bis 1.630 Liter Gepäck verschwinden; der des Nissan Qashqai bspw. nur 504 bis 1.447. Das “Varioflex”-Sitzsystem, sprich die längs verschiebbaren und seitlich versetzbaren Rücksitze, rundet die Funktionalität perfekt ab: es kostet aber auch im Karoq Tour 610 Euro extra. Von anderen Interieur-Aufwertungen profitiert das Sondermodell hingegen wieder ab Werk: insbesondere von jenen im Bereich des Infotainments .

Systemupdates ohne Werkstattbesuch

Skoda verbaut im Karoq Tour ab Werk das Musiksystem “Bolero”, das seit der Überarbeitung   der jüngsten VW-Infotainment-Generation entstammt. Der Vorteil: Es besitzt jetzt eine integrierte eSIM und ist damit immer online; Updates fürs System oder die Navikarten können so ohne Werkstattbesuch eingespielt werden. Smartphones lassen sich außerdem über “Wireless Smartlink” kabellos einbinden, die Sprachbedienung funktioniert natürlicher – und die Menüs auf dem 8-Zoll-Touchscree öffnen schneller. Teil des “Bolero”-Pakets sind zumal das neue digitale Kombiinstrument sowie die “Phonebox” zum kabellosen Aufladen des Smartphones.

Der Rest der “Tour”-Sonderausstattung fällt unter die Rubrik “optische Aufwertungen”. Die LED-Ambientebeleuchtung veredelt den Innenraum; die Hauptscheinwerfer mit der neuen LED-Matrix-Technologie verbessern die Sicht bei Nacht. Mit den 17 Zoll großen, glanzgedrehten Leichtmetallfelgen im “Scutus Grau”-Design stellt Skoda des Weiteren sicher, dass der Karoq Tour auch tagsüber gut aussieht. Die modifizierten vorderen wie hinteren Stoßfänger tun ihr Übriges.

Ein SUV aus dem C- oder D-Segment kommt bei uns selten allein. In unserem Onlineshop hast Du die Wahl aus über 400 günstigen Neuwagen . Drei Beispiele aus dem SUV-Segment sind: der Opel Grandland ab 23.0180 Euro und 34 %, der Kia Sportage ab 23.067 Euro und 20 %; oder der Nissan Qashqai ab 22.533 Euro und 20 % Neuwagen Rabatt . Diese Rabatte werden bei uns auch bei einer Finanzierung schlagend, bspw. bei unserem   Autoleasing ab 0,49 % effektiver Verzinsung.

Jetzt weitere News lesen oder den Konfigurator starten!

So funktioniert meinauto.de:.

1. Wunschauto konfigurieren

2. Sofortige Preisauskunft erhalten

3. Kostenloses Angebot anfordern

4. Beim Händler bestellen und kaufen

Das sagen unsere Kunden über uns:

Dieser Artikel stammt aus der MeinAuto.de-Redaktion. Hier findest Du unsere Kontaktdaten und unser Redaktionsteam .

Weitere Informationen über MeinAuto.de

• So kaufst Du Dein Auto über MeinAuto.de
• Informationen zum Leasing über uns
• Informationen zur Autofinanzierung über uns
• Gewerbefinanzierung
• Geschäftsleasing
• Finanzierung ohne Anzahlung
• Leasing ohne Anzahlung
• 0 % Finanzierung
• Leasingrechner
• Restwertleasing
• Kilometerleasing
• Null Leasing
• Limitierte Sonderaktionen
• EU Neuwagen
• EU Reimporte
• Autoleasing inkl. Versicherung
• Autofinanzierung inkl. Versicherung

Weitere Artikel

• Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback (Test 2023): Auf der Suche nach motorischer und aerodynamischer Effizienz
• Kia Niro Hybrid II (Test 2023): Ist der Voll- nun der bessere Hybridantrieb?
• Skoda Scala (Test 2023): Ein Treppchen weniger und dennoch ein Schritt nach vorn?
• Skoda Enyaq iV (Test 2023): Umfangreich erneuert. Auch umfangreich verbessert?
• Hyundai i10 (Test 2023): Ist das Stadtauto auch nach dem Facelift eine sichere Bank?

Markenartikel

Unsere 5 top-artikel.

Hier finden Sie die aktuell 5 beliebtesten News, Tests oder Ratgeber auf einen Blick:

• Produktionsstart: Neuer VW Golf läuft in Wolfsburg vom Band
• Blitzermarathon 2024: Ab Montag besser Fuß vom Gas nehmen
• Euro NCAP: NIO und Toyota überzeugen beim ersten Test des Jahres
• Renault Master: Deutschland-Premiere auf Malermesse in Köln
• Alfa Romeo Milano: Premiere des italienischen Einstiegsmodells

Ihre Vorteile bei MeinAuto.de

volle Herstellergarantie vom Vertragshändler vor Ort

nur deutsche Neuwagen keine EU-Reimporte

alle Zahlungsarten Barkauf, Finanzierung, Leasing

keine Kosten unser Service ist für Sie 100% kostenfrei

Wir sind stolz auf eine hohe Kundenzufriedenheit!

MeinAuto.de hat langjährige Erfahrungen auf dem Neuwagenmarkt in Deutschland. Unsere Kunden haben dadurch ihr Wunschauto zum Top-Rabatt erhalten und bewerten unsere Arbeit positiv.

» Erfahren Sie mehr über das Urteil unserer Kunden

Top Modelle

• VW Tiguan (neues Modell)
• Ford Ranger
• Ford Tourneo Custom (neues Modell)
• Audi A1 Sportback
• VW Golf 8 Variant (neues Modell)
• BMW 3er Touring
• Ford Focus Turnier
• Citroen C3 You!
• VW Golf 8 (neues Modell)
• Ford Focus 5-türig

LATEST DEALS:

• Audi Q5 - Save £3995
• Volvo XC90 - Save £4114
• Vauxhall Astra - Save £5246
• Mini Cooper Electric - Save £750

Skoda Karoq review

Category: Small SUV

A Karoq is a very good family SUV, offering comfort and practicality at a competitive price

Share review

Mazda MX-30 R-EV

Introduction

What car says....

Have you noticed how Skoda names its SUVs with the same first and last letters to group them into a family? As part of that theme, we’ve got the Skoda Karoq –  which sits between the Kamiq and the Kodiaq in the Czech brand’s line-up.

The Karoq is Skoda’s family SUV, so it's in the same class as the ever-popular  Nissan Qashqai . On the outside, it looks every inch the modern Skoda, but under the skin it shares an awful lot of mechanicals with the Seat Ateca and VW Tiguan – both of which are made by brands that, like Skoda, are part of the VW Group.

To make sure the Karoq doesn’t tread on any of its cousins' toes, it’s slightly smaller than the Tiguan, and is designed to be less sporty but more comfortable and practical than the Ateca, creating its own unique identity and place in the world.

The Karoq has been kept up to date since its launch, with slimmer LED headlights and tail-lights, a more aerodynamic bodykit and increased safety tech appearing over time.

Is that enough to keep it competitive with the best family SUVs ? Read on to find out how we rate the Skoda Karoq in all the important areas...

What Car? has a buying service

The 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey is live –  tell us about your car

Performance & drive

What it’s like to drive, and how quiet it is, engine, 0-60mph and gearbox.

The Skoda Karoq's entry-level 1.0 TSI 116 petrol engine has decent low-rev shove and is fine if you spend most of your time in town.

Even so, our pick of the range is the more powerful 1.5 TSI 150 because its 148bhp petrol engine is better at dealing with heavier loads, steep hills and faster roads. What’s more, it has even greater low-rev urgency than the 1.0 TSI, officially sprinting from 0-60mph in just under 9.0 seconds.

At the top of the range is the 2.0 TSI 190 petrol, which gets four-wheel drive and is available only in Sportline trim. It's easily the fastest Karoq, with 0-62mph taking just 7.0 seconds, but it's rather pricey compared with our favourite Karoq.

There are two 2.0-litre diesels, which come with 114bhp (2.0 TDI 116) and 148bhp (2.0 TDI 150). Both are gutsy from low revs, although the TDI 116 takes its time to get up to motorway speeds. The TDI 150 is nearly as quick as the 1.5 TSI 150 petrol and is available with optional four-wheel drive for added traction.

Suspension and ride comfort

The Karoq comes up trumps when it comes to smoothing the harsh edges off ruts and bumps around town. The ride gets even better on motorways, making it a soothing companion on long journeys. 

Like the similarly plush Kia Sportage  it upstages the firmer-riding Seat Ateca and the bouncier Peugeot 3008 for comfort. Granted, the Range Rover Evoque and Volvo XC40 are comfier still, but they also have much bigger price tags.

The TSI 150 and 190, and the TDI 150 are available with the optional Performance Package, which introduces Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC). That allows you to stiffen or soften the suspension depending on whether you’re cruising or cornering hard. It makes the Karoq even more cushioned in Comfort mode, but the car rides so well without DCC that we don’t feel it’s worth the extra cost.

The Karoq sits on the same underpinnings as the Ateca and the VW Tiguan  but Skoda has clearly worked hard to give it its own character, and it falls squarely between comfort and sportiness. There's more body roll in corners than in the driver-focused Ateca, but the Karoq is just as agile as the longer, heavier Tiguan.

Compared with the Sportage and the Ateca its steering is rather light, but it has a fine level of accuracy that lets you glide from corner to corner with ease. With plenty of grip at your disposal, you won’t lack any confidence as you do so. 

Don’t forget that if you need your family SUV to do more than just look the part, four-wheel drive is available if you go for the top-spec Sportline trim and the most powerful engine. Mind you, while it might help you across a muddy field, don’t think of the Karoq as a cheap alternative to a hardcore off-roader like the Land Rover Defender – it definitely isn't.

Noise and vibration

Let’s start with the engines and gearboxes. The diesels are a bit grumbly under hard acceleration, while the 1.0-litre petrol thrums away noticeably, although not unpleasantly, if you give it some stick.

On balance, we’d say the 1.5 petrol engine offers the smoothest progress of all, although even that shouts quite loudly when you put it under pressure. None of the Karoq's rivals are significantly better though – unless you start considering near-silent all-electric alternatives such as the MG ZS EV and  Kia Niro EV .

The manual gearbox is light and easy to use, as is the clutch. If you opt for one of the automatic models, you'll find that they change gear smoothly but can be a bit jerky when pulling away from a standstill – a bit of a nuisance when parking or in stop-start traffic.

The Karoq does generate more suspension noise than the Ateca and Tiguan, even though they're very similar mechanically. There's a background boom as it deals with bumps in the road, as well as a little more tyre and wind noise. Mind you, none of this is extreme enough to really nark you. For those with particularly sensitive ears, the Mazda CX-30 is a quieter companion.

Driving overview

Strengths  Gutsy engines; composed handling; ride is very comfortable

Weaknesses Not as sporty as a Seat Ateca; diesels can be grumbly

The interior layout, fit and finish

Driving position and dashboard.

You shouldn't have any problems getting comfortable in the Skoda Karoq, whatever your size or shape. All versions have front seat height and lumbar adjustment, plus there's plenty of up-and-down and in-and-out steering wheel movement.

You’ll also enjoy good seat support and a relatively high driving position – although the Karoq is no skyscraping Range Rover . Even so, you sit appreciably higher up than you do in the Mazda CX-30, let alone in conventional family hatchbacks .

Life is made easier still by well-sited, sensibly grouped buttons and switches on the dashboard, and the crisp digital instrument cluster. We like the wealth of information and the level of customisation that the 10.25in Virtual Cockpit allows, including showing a fullscreen map.

Visibility, parking sensors and cameras

The Karoq is one of the easiest family SUVs to see out of because it combines a raised driving position with narrow windscreen pillars and big side windows. Pulling out of T-junctions, manoeuvring around multi-storey car parks and changing lanes on a motorway are a breeze.

It also scores much better than the Kia Sportage, Peugeot 3008 and Vauxhall Grandland when it comes to over-the-shoulder vision. That’s thanks to its relatively slim rear pillars – a rare treat these days.

As a back-up, all models have rear parking sensors, with SE L models and above gaining front sensors and a rear-view camera (which are also available as part of a fairly expensive Parking Package on entry-level SE Drive models). All models get LED headlights for better visibility at night.

Sat nav and infotainment

Regardless of trim level, the Karoq comes with an 8.0in touchscreen infotainment system as standard. It gives you clear graphics, has a simple operating system, and is one of the best touchscreens in the class. 

You also get sat-nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay (so you can use your smartphone apps on the screen) as standard, along with two USB-C ports in the front centre console.

A bigger 9.2in Columbus touchscreen is available as an expensive option on SE L and SportLine models. While the screen resolution is impressive and the larger size makes it easier to hit the on-screen buttons, we’re not sure it’s worth the extra cash.

The Karoq's design team – determined to ensure that it has a distinct Skoda brand identity – has come up with an interior look that is surprisingly far removed from those of the Seat Ateca and VW Tiguan.

Its modern-looking dashboard borrows styling cues from the bigger Skoda Kodiaq  and a few metal-effect and piano-black trims add a touch of class to finish it off. You’ll find plenty of squishy surfaces on top of the dashboard and doors, and even the harder materials lower down are textured so they don't feel cheap.

It's not just the finish that’s good – everything feels solidly screwed together, suggesting that the Karoq will easily shrug off the rigours of family life. That said, it doesn’t have the visual wow factor of the Peugeot 3008 inside or the sense of premium luxury the Mazda CX-30 imparts.

Interior overview

Strengths  Loads of adjustment; excellent all-round visibility; one of the best touchscreen infotainment systems

Weaknesses  Design is a little drab; digital instruments cost extra

Passenger & boot space

How it copes with people and clutter, front space.

It’s unlikely that anyone will get into the front of the Skoda Karoq and start grumbling about a lack of space. It’s possible to slide the seats back a good amount to accommodate long legs, while those tall in the body will find the seat drops low enough to give plenty of head room.

The only caveat (and it’s a slight one) is that the panoramic sunroof (standard on Sportline and optional on lesser trims) nabs a bit of ceiling height.

There are lots of storage spaces dotted around, including big door bins and cubbies around the central dashboard area.

The Karoq has large rear door openings that make fitting a child seat relatively painless. There’s plenty of leg room for adults, so even six-footers won’t find their knees pressed up against the front seatbacks. If you require even more leg room, take a look at the limo-like Kia Sportage. 

Head room is excellent too. The Karoq's ceiling is higher than in the Nissan Qashqai and similar to that of the Sportage and VW Tiguan. As in the front, the panoramic roof fitted to some versions does reduce head room a little, but not by enough to bother six-footers.

What about carrying three in the rear seats? Well, there’s a high central floor hump to clamber over and, once in place, the middle passenger will feel a little squished. We wouldn’t recommend a long trip with three adults sitting in the back. The Sportage is better in this respect thanks to its wider interior.

Seat folding and flexibility

This is an area where the Karoq wipes the floor with its rivals – even closely related ones such as the Seat Ateca.

That is, providing you go for the SE and SE L’s optional VarioFlex seats, which do all sorts of clever things. For a start, the seatbacks are split fairly evenly into three separate sections rather than the usual 60/40. That offers much more flexibility if you want to carry long loads as well as passengers.

That’s not all – the seats also recline, and slide back and forth independently. You can even remove all three rear seats from the car, freeing up more space (the only trouble is that they're rather bulky and heavy). Without VarioFlex seats, the rear bench is split 60/40 and the sections don’t slide or recline, unlike with the Sportage's 40/20/40 split bench.

The Karoq’s boot gives you 521 litres of space, or up to 588 litres in versions with VarioFlex seats. That's one of the biggest storage volumes in the family SUV class .

The closely related Ateca managed to swallow eight carry-on suitcases below its parcel shelf, while the Karoq opened wide and gulped down nine. It's worth noting, though, that four-wheel drive models have a slightly smaller boot.

You can add a height-adjustable boot floor as an option, allowing you to create a flat, extended load bay with no loading lip when the rear seats are folded down. Without it, the step up to the rear seats is sizeable.

All versions of the Karoq have a range of hooks, trays and other clever features that should stop your shopping sloshing around the boot when you’re driving home from the supermarket.

Practicality overview

Strengths  Generous passenger space, even for six-footers; lots of handy storage cubbies; huge, well-shaped boot

Weaknesses  Clever VarioFlex seats are no longer fitted as standard

Buying & owning

Everyday costs, plus how reliable and safe it is, costs, insurance groups, mpg and co2.

In entry-level form, the Skoda Karoq costs a similar amount to a Visia spec Nissan Qashqai – although there’s a significant walk-up in price for that rival if you want to have a car with some basic luxuries, such as alloy wheels and climate control.

The rest of the Karoq range is really good value considering the spec, and undercuts the equivalent Qashqai and Kia Sportage by a reasonable margin.

Running costs, including insurance and servicing, are very much in line with the Seat Ateca, although predicted resale values suggest that the Karoq will lose you a little less money in depreciation over three years. Indeed, the Karoq is predicted to lose its value at about the same rate as the Qashqai, helping to keep PCP finance rates competitive. You can check the best prices using our New Car Deals pages .

Officially, the entry-level 1.0 TSI 116 can manage up to 47.9mpg and, surprisingly, the 2.0-litre diesel isn’t that much more efficient, making it harder to recommend given that it also costs more. Entry-level versions of the Sportage and Qashqai promise around 44mpg, but they both have hybrid engine options, which are much better if efficiency is important.

Company car drivers looking to minimise their benefit-in-kind ( BIK ) tax payments will be better off with the plug-in hybrid ( PHEV ) Sportage.

Equipment, options and extras

The Karoq's SE Drive trim is generously equipped, with 17in alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, automatic wipers, privacy glass, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and cruise control. Indeed, it’s highly recommendable if you’re on a budget, especially if you add the optional VarioFlex rear seats.

If you can, we’d spend a bit more and go for the mid-spec SE L trim. That trim adds a couple of extra niceties, including 18in wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, heated windscreen washers, keyless entry and start, and extra parking aids. 

Top-spec Sportline trim, meanwhile, adds 19in wheels, sports front seats, matrix LED headlights, an electrically-operated boot lid and bespoke styling. It costs a fair bit more though, and comes with the head room-limiting panoramic roof.

Reliability

The Karoq had mixed results in the family SUV class of our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey . The petrol versions performed well, placing in the top third, but the diesel came bottom out of 34 models. 

As a brand, Skoda claimed 16th place out of 32 car makers, putting it above Ford, Seat, Nissan, Peugeot and VW, but below Kia in eighth place.

You get a par-for-the-course three-year/60,000-mile warranty as standard, which you can extend up to five years or 100,000 miles for a reasonable fee. Hyundai and Kia match or beat that extended warranty time period as standard.

Safety and security

When it was tested by the safety experts at Euro NCAP  the Karoq scored the full five stars. The thing is, that was back in 2017 and the rating has since expired. 

Even so, while the tests have become more stringent since then, the Karoq should still be a very safe car. It comes with plenty of standard safety equipment, including automatic emergency braking ( AEB ), a drowsiness monitor, lane assist and traffic-sign assist. 

If you go for SE L or Sportline trim, you can also add the Travel Assist package option, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist with traffic jam assist and emergency braking for adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring is reserved for the Sportline’s optional Travel Assist Plus package.

Costs overview

Strengths Competitively priced; holds its value well; efficient engines

Weaknesses No hybrid or electric options to bring down company car tax bills

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here

It hasn't. In fact, Skoda has just given the Karoq a light mid-life facelift, which brings some new standard equipment, updated styling and a more powerful entry-level engine.

While both cars are classed as family SUVs , the VW Tiguan is slightly larger than the Karoq in every way.

Yes, the Karoq is officially bigger in every dimension than the VW T-Roc . The Karoq is a family SUV  while the T-Roc is in the small SUV sector.

BEST PETROL

Explore more of the Skoda Karoq

• Full review Currently reading
• Versions & specs
• View our offers

Best small SUVs: our top 10 revealed

Used test: Nissan Qashqai vs Seat Ateca vs Skoda Karoq costs

Used test: Nissan Qashqai vs Skoda Karoq verdict

Used test: Nissan Qashqai vs Skoda Karoq interiors

New Skoda Karoq and Vauxhall Grandland vs Kia Sportage: costs

New Skoda Karoq and Vauxhall Grandland vs Kia Sportage: interiors

More skoda karoq, used reviews.

Used Skoda Karoq 2017-present

Also consider

The plug-in hybrid MX-30 is good to drive and r...

Suzuki S-Cross

Small SUV has a big boot and gutsy engine, but rivals are...

Great to drive and one of our favourite family SUVs<...

This small SUV is attractive inside, but rivals are&...

All Small SUV car reviews

Quick search.

• All car reviews
• All new car deals
• Used cars for sale
• All used makes
• Vans and commercial vehicles
• New car awards
• Used car awards
• Classic & Sports Car
• Move Electric

Tools & services

• Car finance
• Car warranty
• Gap insurance
• Sell your car
• Car Leasing
• Car Valuation
• Company car tax calculator
• Van tax calculator
• Terms & conditions
• Cookie policy
• Privacy policy

Information

• About What Car?
• Contact What Car?
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Subscribe to What Car? magazine

What Car? is part of Haymarket Automotive , a division of Haymarket Media Group © Haymarket Media Group 2024

Skoda Karoq 2024 Review

The Skoda Karoq now represents strong value for money priced at $39,990 drive-away, bringing the Czech brand’s five-seater mid-size SUV within striking range of budget Chinese models. Powered by a Volkswagen-developed 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering a smooth drive, and equipped with decent features including dual digital screens, the entry-level Karoq offers good value for money in the top-selling mid-size SUV segment. A strong seven-year warranty adds appeal, but it does miss out on important features available in higher model grades.

How much does the Skoda Karoq cost?

The eponymous 2024 Skoda Karoq is the new entry-level model in the Czech brand’s mid-size SUV range and starts from $39,990 drive-away .

That’s sharp pricing for a European import – especially one with Volkswagen underpinnings – and could steal sales from emergent Chinese budget brands.

The cheapest mid-size SUVs in Australia at present are made by Chinese and Korean brands, the MG HS (from $29,990 drive-away under its most recent price cuts ) and SsangYong Korando (from $30,990 drive-away).

But unlike those vehicles you get a smooth and efficient Volkswagen-developed 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine (110kW/250Nm) that elevates the drive experience and pumps through an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

Equipment levels are also reasonably good. Top of the list are 18-inch alloy wheels and impressive automatic LED headlights on the outside, while cabin features include a 10.25-inch touch-screen infotainment display and 8.0-inch digital instrument panel.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are in there, as is dual-zone climate control, push-button engine start and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, so it certainly doesn’t feel like a stripped-out budget car.

Safety systems include autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Seven airbags are also fitted.

Now getting towards the end of its current lifecycle, the Skoda Karoq has lost its five-star ANCAP safety rating awarded in 2017 because the testing protocols back then are too far removed from the more stringent assessment conducted today.

But, overall, there’s a lot to like about this neatly-engineered European mid-size SUV. It’s not the most modern-looking vehicle from the outside but as grandma used to say, don’t judge a book by its cover.

What’s good about the Skoda Karoq?

There are three major plus points for the 2024 Skoda Karoq – the first is its seven-year warranty, the second is its fun-to-drive nature and the third is its sharp pricing.

The seven-year warranty is two years longer than most of the top sellers in the segment, such as the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4, and is backed up with competitive capped-price service costs, roughly $392 per annum over seven years.

It’s no surprise the Karoq is a fun-to-drive SUV, Volkswagen Group genetics aligning it closely with highly-regarded vehicles like the Volkswagen Tiguan.

It steers through roundabouts and corners predictably, is quiet and composed at nominal (urban) speeds and is easy to park, thanks to its smallish stature.

Finally, the sharp pricing is one of the Skoda Karoq’s biggest drawcards and will justifiably entice new customers into the fold.

What’s not so good about the Skoda Karoq?

The 2024 Skoda Karoq is slightly shorter than most of its rivals, such as the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage, which means the back seat and cargo space isn’t quite as generous.

It also misses out on a number of key features the $5500-more-expensive Karoq Style gets, such as satellite navigation, a powered tailgate, wireless phone charger and tinted windows.

But in terms of the equipment list the lack of the versatile VarioFlex rear seats is the biggest omission, their folding and tumbling configuration sorely missed.

Should I buy a Skoda Karoq?

As far as European mid-size SUVs go, you’ll struggle to find a better deal than a new 2024 Skoda Karoq.

The sub-$40K, drive-away, no more to pay price is hugely appealing, and when digging a little deeper it turns out that this slightly stripped-back Karoq is no cheap and nasty rattle-trap.

It is one of the older SUVs in its class, but several updates over the years have kept it relevant and in terms of its powertrain and chassis, the formula has been refined and improved, culminating in a very competent SUV that is fit for purpose.

2024 Skoda Karoq at a glance: Price: $39,990 (drive-away) Available: Now Engine: 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol Output: 110kW/250Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Fuel: 6.5L/100km (ADR Combined) CO2: 147g/km (ADR Combined) Safety rating: Unrated

Related: Skoda Karoq now priced under $40,000 drive-away

Related: skoda karoq style 2024 review, related: skoda enyaq ev coming late 2024, related: skoda epiq electric suv to start from $41,000 in europe.

• Sharp entry-level drive-away pricing
• Lively yet fuel-efficient four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine
• Strong warranty and affordable service pricing
• Useful equipment has been deleted to bring the price down
• Exterior design starting to show its age
• Interior space lags slightly behind most of its mid-size SUV rivals

• Corporate advertising
• Dealer advertising
• Shareholders
• Competitions
• Become a dealer
• Farm machinery
• Construction
• Responsible disclosure
• Terms and Conditions

2023 Skoda Karoq Sportline 4x4 Review

The Skoda Karoq represents fantastic value - on paper. But should you spend your hard earned cash on one? Let's talk about that!

• Engine performance lives up to the name!
• Good entry price (without options)
• Refined interior
• Interior is a little boring
• Fuel economy is not fantastic
• Some basic safety tech is locked behind paywalls (option packs)

140kW + 320Nm

$50,990 Incl. On Roads

6.6L/100km (Claimed)

5 Star ANCAP

The Skoda Karoq has recently been facelifted with some new looks, new tech and new price tags.

Today we review the Skoda Karoq Sportline, a car offering sporty looks and more importantly, sporty performance - but if you aren’t careful the Skoda Karoq can start to become very expensive very quickly.

But does that mean you should avoid the Skoda Karoq? No! Let’s talk through the 2023 Skoda Karoq and highlight the good, the bad, and the (probably) unnecessary.

How much does the Skoda Karoq cost?

Speccing your Skoda Karoq is where we recommend you really keep an eye on your budget.

At a base level, you can choose two variants of the Skoda Karoq, with the main differences being in their drivetrains:

• Skoda Karoq Style: $43,990
• Skoda Karoq Sportline: $50,990

The Karoq Sportline has no less than 5 different options packages:

Premium Pack ($5900) 

• Dynamic Chassis with Drive Mode Selection
• Surround Area View
• 9.2" Columbus Satellite Navigation
• Lane Assist with Adaptive Lane Guidance & Emergency Assist
• Parking Assist
• Heated front and rear seats
• Heat insulating windshield

Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert ($1250)

• Blind Spot Monitoring 
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert ‍

‍ Leather Seats Pack ($3500)

• Leather Appointed Seats
• Front Memory Seats

Panoramic Sunroof ($1900)

Side Steps ($1200)

On test today, we have the Premium Pack and Panoramic Sunroof. Although we really like the additional features, it does add an extra $7800 to the price.

With all packs included, that brings the price in spitting distance of the bougier and more powerful Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line.

We recommend, as with most Skoda, get the car itself without any optional extras! In that case, they represent fantastic value for money.

‍ Are you looking to buy this or any other car? Let us get you the best finance deals, pre-approved within 2 minutes with no impact to your credit score! Click here now!

What do we think of the exterior looks of the Skoda Karoq?

There is no denying the Karoq is a great looking SUV.

Especially the Sportline we have on test here.

The split headlight design works really well, especially considering that the Sportline comes as standard with upgraded Matrix LED headlights.

You also get the blacked out treatment, specifically for the grille, door mirrors, roof rails and window frames.

The 19” alloy wheels have been updated as part of its mid-life updated and apparently save 0.1L of fuel per 100kms. I can probably believe that.

Like all Skoda’s, sharp body lines adorn the sides, and the back continues the theme of blacked out badging.

What’s the interior and connectivity like of the Skoda Karoq?

Open the doors of the Skoda Karoq, and you’re going to be pleasantly surprised.

Or maybe not.

It depends if you expected Czech design or German design, with Skoda being owned by Volkswagen Group, it feels like a German car. Though who ever complained about a German interior?

You will find the German rainbow (shades of black and grey) adorning the interior, which is not very inspiring.

But what is inspiring is frankly the practicality. Storage spaces galore fill up the interior, with a glove box that includes an air conditioning port, a storage compartment next to the driver, on top of the dash, and under the passenger seat (which includes your Skoda umbrella!).

The centre armrest is well padded, but is also adjustable with a large open storage area inclusive of 2 cupholders and small grippy ‘nubs’. You can also remove the tray for extra storage, or flip it over for a raised storage area.

I can see why the Skoda slogan is ‘simply clever’.

As we have the $5900 Premium Pack fitted, we get some welcomed (although not-necessary) inclusions.

Although the seats are cloth as we don’t have the leather package, they are heated thanks to the premium package.

As they come however, they are very comfortable, with plenty of support and adjustment - even if it is manual adjustment without the leather package.

Your eyes will also be immediately drawn to the 9.2” infotainment display with gesture controls.

It works fine, but apart from size and the addition of relatively useless gesture controls, it feels no better than the standard 8” unit you would get without the package.

It does come with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, both of which are very nice to have and to use with the wireless charger. You can also use one of the two fast USB-C chargers.

Similarly, its very easy to be wowed by the 10.25” Virtual Cockpit which you will find across a range of Volkswagen Group products.

It is one of the best out there, being extremely customisable and the ability to display a full-sized map.

However, you can tell here that the digital instrument cluster is powered by a less powerful and/or older computer than its Volkswagen Tiguan counterpart, because it can be downright slow to respond.

The three spoke steering wheel is also a (minorly) mixed bag. It feels amazing to hold, with a golf ball effect to the leather.

However, we found the buttons to be very confusing. For example, with the autonomous driving controls being on the opposite side of the steering wheel to the old school cruise control stalk.

In all, we really like the interior of the Skoda Karoq - even if it does represent some interesting quirks with its technology.

What about the Back seats of the Skoda Karoq?

The rear seats of the Skoda Karoq are fantastic.

Sitting behind my drivers position at 5’11”, I have plenty of space and my bum is kept nice and toasty with the heated rear seats (included in that premium pack).

The centre armrest offers 3 cupholders (with the middle being small for example for energy drinks), with a pull down to enable through loading for skis or similar items.

No third zone of climate control, but you do get air vents to share and a couple of USB-C ports.

How much can it fit in the boot of the Skoda Karoq?

I don’t think Jacob and I have ever been so excited about boot space.

Bare with me here.

With the rear seats up you get 521L of boot space, and with them down you get a massive 1630L.

It would be better if the seats folded individually like in the Style, but the Sportline gets 40:60 split folding seats.

If you want to learn more about all the little quirks and features of the Skoda Karoq boot, you’ll need to watch our full YouTube review - but suffice to say, the netting, storage nooks and hooks, and reversible floor make this one of the most practical midsize SUVs out there.

What’s under the bonnet of the Skoda Karoq?

The Karoq is offered with two choices of drivetrain, but these are locked to the grade you choose.

The Skoda Karoq Style is equipped with a 1.4L turbocharged 4 cylinder petrol engine, with power sent through an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission through to the front wheels only.

Although this configuration will not blow your mind with its output being 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, it does have a surprising amount of shove and more importantly is quite fuel efficient.

You can see this engine in action in our Golf Life review here.

Going for the sportline - as the name suggests - gives you a sportier drivetrain.

The Sportline comes with a more powerful, 2.0L 4 cylinder turbocharged petrol engine pumping out 140kW of power and 320Nm of torque. 

Better yet, that power goes through Volkswagen’s famed 7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission, through to all wheels.

The downside? Fuel economy. We averaged about 8.7L/100km throughout our week of testing, whereas we would expect low 7.0s / high 6.0s in the Style.

How does the Skoda Karoq drive?

First things first - if the Skoda Karoq Sportline is so sporty, how quick is it?

Well, we timed the 0-100km/h sprint (with the included launch control feature!) at 7.31 seconds - which is fast for a car that claims it only has 140kW of power. We suspect its more than that (the German’s often under-report and over-deliver).

However, it’s not all roses. Sure, if you want speed, the Skoda Karoq Sportline is better than the Style. 

Or if you need AWD because you live in a wet area, go down gravel roads often, etc.

Although, despite the name, this is hardly a true 4x4. It’s true it has AWD, but it is a Haldex based AWD - being front wheel drive until it notices loss of traction and then can send up to 50% of torque to the rear. So again, not a real 4x4 in the truest sense.

However, the 7-speed dual clutch - although great for sporty driving with its wicked fast shifting - still has the classic dual-clutch traits of being lurchy at lower speeds.

It’s not awful by any stretch, but the 8-speed torque converter auto is simply better for around town driving.

Suspension tuning on the Skoda Karoq is fantastic. To be fair, we have the adaptive dampers fitted here as part of the premium package, however it does mean that we can soften and stiffen the suspension depending on our drive modes.

However, the standard suspension tuning on the non-adaptive dampers is fantastic too - so most people wouldn’t be too upset missing out on them.

Change between driving modes, and the Skoda Karoq can handle backroads and twisties with ease.

The steering becomes very heavy in sport mode, just how you want it, and in our unit the suspension stiffens up to the point of almost too-stiff.

Body roll essentially doesn’t exist, and the mechanical grip feels super-natural.

Is it going to drive better than a Volkswagen Tiguan R or Cupra Ateca ? No. But it’s damn near close.

The thing that really impresses me is its power and torque. The engine seems to continue to build power no matter what speed you are at, and it feels quite fast. It is a truly impressive engine.

The biggest reason I might advocate for the premium pack is the inclusion of ‘traffic jam assist’ which essentially means the car will drive itself down a highway, coming to a complete stop in traffic and continuing when traffic moves.

This is known as ‘travel assist’ in Volkswagen’s, and is a great self-driving technology.

Is the Skoda Karoq Safe?

The Skoda Karoq boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is based on Euro NCAP tests carried out in 2017.

This rating applies to all models, with category scores of 93% for adult occupant protection, 79% for child occupant protection, 73% for pedestrian protection, and 58% for safety assistance.

The standard safety features include:

• 7 airbags (including driver's knee airbag)
• City and pedestrian autonomous emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control system
• Driver drowsiness detection
• Manoeuvre Braking Assist technology
• Multi-collision braking system
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rearview camera for reversing
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Rear ISOFIX (x2) and top tethers (x3)

However, additional safety features such as lane-keeping assistance, traffic jam assistance, side assistance, rear cross-traffic alerts, and emergency assistance are only available as optional extras.

How much can the Skoda Karoq tow?

The Skoda Karoq Sportline has a 1900 kg braked towing capacity, and 750kg of unbraked towing capacity.

How much does the Skoda Karoq cost to service?

The Skoda Karoq is backed by a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, with maintenance intervals extended to 12 months or 15,000 km, depending on which comes first.

At the point of purchase, Skoda provides two service package options. The five-year package is priced at $1,550, whereas the seven-year package costs $2,400, which equates to approximately $342 annually.

Final thoughts - should you buy a Skoda Karoq?

The midsize SUV segment is incredibly competitive, and the Skoda Karoq does provide a strong case for something with a bit of pezzaz and sportiness under the bonnet.

However, start optioning packages and the price very quickly encroaches on its more expensive and more premium sibling, the Volkswagen Tiguan.

So, if you’re going to buy one, just make sure you aren’t tempted by some of the alluring packages or the value case starts to diminish!

Saucey score breakdown

Related reviews.

2024 GWM Tank 500 Ultra Review

2024 MINI Countryman JCW Review

2024 BMW X2 M35i Review

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to know when we drop new car reviews.

THE NEW ŠKODA KAROQ

The new ŠKODA KAROQ will make its debut in a digital media presentation, titled “The Faces of KAROQ”, on 30 November at 10:00 CET.

ŠKODA AUTO has released an official teaser video previewing the updated ŠKODA KAROQ. Four years after its launch, the central model in the Czech car maker’s SUV line-up has received a design and technology upgrade. The KAROQ, which was the brand’s second most popular model after the OCTAVIA in 2020 as well as in the first six months of 2021, will in future look even more distinctive. The redesigned front is characterised by a wider ŠKODA grille and slimmed-down headlights. In addition, the full LED Matrix headlights’ reconfigured LED modules create a signature four-eyed look. In the updated rear section, the redesigned tail lights are particularly eye-catching.

DESIGN SKETCHES

One of the two design sketches shows the freshened ŠKODA KAROQ’s new, even more distinctive front. The ŠKODA grille has increased in width and now features impressive double slats as well as a new hexagonal design, with a wide air intake underneath. The headlights are overall more slender than in the predecessor version and extend all the way to the grille. Their dynamic appearance is underscored by redesigned daytime running lights that are now composed of two separate elements each. Underneath is a second lighting unit for the fog lights or, in the top variant, a separate LED module. This headlight configuration enables a characteristic four-eyed driving lights look after dark.

The second sketch previews the KAROQ’s redesigned rear. In addition to a longer rear spoiler and a visually updated rear apron with a black diffuser, the tail lights now sport a new, sharply drawn design as well. Like the headlights, they have been slimmed down and emphasise the vehicle’s width. In signature ŠKODA style, crystalline structures add a special visual effect to the tail lights, which will retain their characteristic C-shaped graphic.

• Sustainability

Tour de France with ŠKODA KAROQ

The biggest cycling race in the world professionalized over the course of time. What started as rivalry between two sports journalists is now a huge fun-machine attracting millions of spectators each year.

T eams are developing complicated tactics and carefully guard their know-how. That’s why we’re happy that the team LottoNL-Jumbo granted our reporter Christopher access to spend one full day on the Grand Départ in Dusseldorf with them to show our readers what it takes to prepare for the grandest tour of all.

FUEL IS A FAMILY AFFAIR

It says a lot about pro-cycling when the first member of the team you're introduced to is the cook.  Jesper Boom has been feeding pro-cyclists for a few years, and if the name rings a bell, it's because he's the younger brother of  Tour de France stage winner Lars Boom.

Timo Roosen (middle) asks what's on the menu

Throughout the day, the Dutch team were treated to cabbage stuffed with meat, quinoa, a lot of potatoes, cured meats on rye bread, veal, and salad.  Jesper serves the team, "lots of traditional Dutch food..." and as we're chatting the cyclists return from their morning's training ride.  Sure enough, the pros are keen to learn more about how their calories intake will be dressed up.

Team cook Jesper Boom (right) contemplates the evening menu

SUPPORT IS SACRED

Following food, the next most important topic of conversation are the stunningly beautiful Bianchi bikes – how they're handling, if there are any niggling problems, or room for improvement in their setup. It's tangible just how much respect the cyclists have for their mechanics, and Robert Gesink spent some time chatting with Tony Arts, a mechanic who, prior to joining LottoNL-Jumbo, spent 20 odd years with Rabobank.

Tony Arts (left) the veteran mechanic examines Gesink's bike

Finishing sixth in the 2015 Tour de France and winning the Tour of California's Yellow Jersey in 2012 Gesink is a much-respected member of the grand tour peloton. Friendly and energetic, even for a pro-cyclist, Gesink was happy to chat and joke, but clearly wanted more time on his bike. As soon as he finished debriefing Arts, Gesink hit the trainer – as Primož Roglič told me, "it's not much of a training ride in a city".

WHO DO YOU WANT IN THE CAR?

The riders are also lucky to have Dirk Van de Ven working on their bikes. Young, agile, and intense, Van de Ven immediately struck me as a real asset - he's been with LottoNL-Jumbo for a couple of years and is often found riding in the back of the team car.

In the eventuality of a crash or mechanical problem with the bike, Van de Ven's job is to jump out the team car, replace bikes, wheels, or simply help a cyclist get back in the saddle.

He's got to think fast, act quickly, and be absolutely sure that all the tools at his disposal are fit for purpose. Having spent an afternoon watching him tape handlebars and levelling every seat, I asked what he'd be doing the morning of the race, "I'll be doing it all again."

Van de Ven takes notes from Gesink

THE VEHICLES OF SUCCESS

Watching Tony Arts expertly clean the fleet of Bianchis, before degreasing and greasing up the drive chains, is one of the most hypnotic sights I've ever had the pleasure to witness. An almost zen like meditative experience, I learned that clean vehicles is not only a technical necessity – it helps put the athletes' minds at rest. A clean vehicle offers peace of mind.

The race ready ŠKODA KAROQ – ready for action in a secret location

Arts cleans a bike in front of a freshly washed team vehicle

One thing that struck me about the ŠKODA OCTAVIA's parked up by the team bus was the absence of radio antennae. A quick chat with the management let me know that a secret vehicle would be making its first public world debut in the time-trial – a brand new ŠKODA KAROQ was hidden in a back street, and I got to take a closer look.

Many teams have grown accustomed to using ŠKODA OCTAVIA estate cars to support their riders, but Le Tour 2017 starts with an individual time-trial, so LottoNL-Jumbo opted to try out a new model – The ŠKODA KAROQ. So I got inside to find out what’s it like inside of a team car during the race.

Transparency

New technology means that all professional professional cycling is under increasing scrutiny from sponsors, fans, and the media. The KAROQ used by LottoNL-Jumbo is fitted with cameras so that the team can review footage later to assess performance, and look for gains in the performance of their team.

Driver information

The team KAROQ needs a driver, and for Roosen's run another sports director, Nico Verhoeven, occupied the driver's seat. While Maassen coaches Roosen via the comms system installed on the dash, Verhoeven offers advice while driving.

How the KAROQ handles on the course gives the directors insight into the conditions the riders will face – the notoriously rainy conditions in Düsseldorf meant understanding the line was more important than usual. The depth of puddles, the lack of grip on the red-striped pedestrian crossings - all of this is information is shared with the riders.

Emergency mechanic

ŠKODA KAROQ also has room for an athletic mechanic, and this duty lies with Van de Ven. Should there be a mechanical failure, the KAROQ will get as close as possible to the rider so that Van de Ven can jump out the car with whatever he needs and run to the cyclist as quickly as possible.

If you watched stage one you would have seen Van de Ven assist George Bennett when his back wheel slid out from under him on a treacherously wet bend. After switching Bennett's bike for one off the roof, Van de Ven turned to run back to the KAROQ and his trainers slipped from under him – if you'll pardon the pun, this was a watershed moment in terms of understanding just how much the riders would need to slow into the corners.

Internal spaces

KAROQ offers some intriguing possibilities. During Roosen's ride, Slovenian wunderkind, Primož Roglič road in the centre backseat, giving him a much higher viewpoint than a more conventional estate – all the better to discuss racing lines and dangerous looking patches of road.

Despite being sat between a mechanic and a set of spare wheels, the KAROQ gives Roglič plenty of room to manoeuvre, ensuring the cyclist has the best possible vantage point to plan how he will tackle the individual time trial.

Be the first to get the latest stories

Explore more.

The new Škoda Kodiaq through the eyes of Oliver Stefani

Meet some original and lesser-known Škodas

Getting hands-on with the new Superb Combi

• sponsorship

Tour de France

Škoda Live Tour

How does live tour work.

To start your Škoda Live Tour experience click on the model of interest below. Alternatively if you are looking to learn more about your current vehicle please choose the owners consultation option.

Fill out your details and click the button to start your Škoda Live Tour. If the Škoda hosts are engaged or offline, you can schedule a time that suits you.

You are now ready to interact with one of our Škoda product hosts who will guide you around the showroom. Please check your browser settings to ensure pop-ups are allowed and look out for prompts to allow access to microphone so we can hear you.

Models now available in the Live Tour showroom

The electric Enyaq has a fresh new take on technology and performance.

Redesigned to be more distinctive, sophisticated and sporty.

An increased SUV appeal and a more powerful appearance.

Škoda Owner's Consultation

Recently collected your Škoda vehicle and want to learn more about the car? We are offering you free access to a product expert - through our Live Tour. They can answer any questions, give you a live tour to demonstrate how to operate all the functions & controls and even help you to maximise your Enyaq’s range.

Demos with a Difference

Why use live tour, live visit with real experts.

Get your questions ready then “step inside” for your very own Live Tour with a Škoda expert who won’t just answer your questions, but can give you a personal tour around the models in the showroom.

Simply convenient

The Skoda Live Tour is open from 11:00 - 21:00 Monday to Friday (closed on bank holidays) and 11:00 - 19:00 at weekends. If our hosts are engaged or offline, you can schedule an appointment at a time that suits you. Put aside approximately 20 minutes for the full experience.

One way display

Škoda brings the Showroom to you in a one-way video connection, so you can see us but we can’t see you! You just need a quiet spot to chat and ideally a strong internet connection.

Virtually no reason not to

You won’t get the hard sell during your Live Tour. Our experts aren’t salespeople. They are Škoda specialists who seek to assist you, not close a deal. We can book you a real-life test drive at the end of your visit, but you won’t feel pressured at all!

See what our customers think

Not ready for a live tour.

Car configurator

Stock locator

• Car group tests

Skoda Karoq vs Volkswagen T-Roc: 2023 twin test review

Suv-styled models are all the rage, but is the karoq or t-roc tops.

The SUV segment continues to grow – both individually and in terms of models available and sales. There’s an enormous spectrum of options in a range of different sizes, and here we have the best that Skoda and Volkswagen have to offer. 

For Skoda, that’s the Karoq , which is slightly larger than the T-Roc we’ve lined up here. In a class with strong competition, its appeal lies in keeping things simple. If you want hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, you’ll need to look elsewhere, but the engines that are present get the job done admirably. 

One of the more underappreciated powertrains is the 2.0 TDI diesel , the engine used by the car in our pictures. The 148bhp power output is fine for a car such as this, but it’s the punchy 360Nm of torque that really makes a difference. A four-wheel drive system and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox make it very secure and reassuring to drive. With a 2,100kg towing limit, it’ll comfortably haul more than any other powertrain option in the range, too. Despite all of that, our photographer Pete Gibson is averaging 44.9mpg so far.

The Karoq scores big points for space. Go for the SE L trim, and you get what Skoda calls VarioFlex rear seats. The standard back bench becomes three individual seats that can be folded, slid forwards or removed altogether. They make an already spacious car incredibly versatile. An optional ‘Simply Clever’ package includes a reversible boot carpet with a wipe-down rubber mat on one side and extra boot netting to secure smaller items. 

In SportLine trim seen here, the monthly payments are £613 per month on a three-year PCP with a £5,000 deposit. But the most affordable SE Drive 1.0 TSI costs just £341 per month.

The T-Roc isn’t as big as the Karoq, and the difference between the two is similar to that between the Golf and the Octavia . However, that hasn’t stopped the VW from being a sales success.

So far in 2023, the T-Roc is the only model in either brand’s line-ups to break into the top 10 of the UK’s new-car sales charts, and the allure is clear as soon as you dive into the numbers. Match the three-year PCP figures to the already competitively priced Golf on the previous page, and the entry-level T-Roc comes to £279 per month – £25 per month less than the Golf for a car with the same 108bhp 1.0-litre TSI petrol.

In many ways, it feels like you’re getting more car for less cash. While its footprint is shorter and more compact on the road than a Golf’s, the T-Roc’s taller roofline means that there’s more space for the driver and passengers inside, and at 445 litres, the boot is larger, too. 

The VW offers the high-riding style that is so popular with buyers at the moment, but the way it drives on the road isn’t significantly compromised for it. The ride is very slightly firmer than the Golf’s, but it remains composed and refined enough to be very pleasurable to live with every day. 

Skoda does have an alternative in the form of the Kamiq . It has plenty of space and is decent value for money, but the T-Roc feels like a step up when it comes to quality and refinement. 

The T-Roc range is more versatile, too. Front and four-wheel-drive options are available, and engines range from that 1.0 TSI right the way through to the fire-breathing, 296bhp T-Roc R . 

Which car comes out on top?

Winner: Skoda Karoq

It’s quite easy to argue that the Karoq is the best car Skoda makes right now. It’s designed to be a practical, versatile family SUV, and it nails its brief. Some rivals offer more glamour, but it’s a superb no-nonsense contender.

Runner up: Volkswagen T-Roc

The T-Roc isn’t absolutely outstanding in any one area, but it manages to perform very strongly across the board. However, since the monthly finance rates are currently so competitive, the Volkswagen suddenly becomes an extremely appealing prospect. 

• Medium SUVs

Alex joined Auto Express as staff writer in early 2018, helping out with news, drives, features, and the occasional sports report. His current role of Chief reviewer sees him head up our road test team, which gives readers the full lowdown on our comparison tests.

Most Popular

New 2024 Vauxhall Frontera is a family-friendly SUV priced to worry rivals

Car Deal of the Day: stylish Peugeot 2008 is a steal at an incredible £142 a month

Alfa Romeo Milano 2024 preview: walkaround, specs and full details

• Towcar reviews
• Towcar review: Škoda Karoq SportLine

We will ’Roq you

James Batchelor puts our Towcar of the Year 2023 through its paces

Flick through the list of previous Towcar of the Year champions and there’s one brand that wins again and again: Škoda. Although its Superb and Kodiaq have taken home the overall title in previous years, the mid-sized Karoq SUV had yet to grace the winner’s podium.  

That all changed last year. The judging panel voted unanimously for it, believing the Karoq ticked all the boxes for caravanners. Fresh from a recent update, and powered by the ubiquitous Volkswagen Group 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine and four-wheel drive system, judges felt it offered the best package for those looking for a new towcar.  

Comfort – 93%

Škoda received some criticism when it replaced the quirky and characterful Yeti with the rather unremarkable-looking Karoq in 2018. Still, the Karoq has become one of the leaders in the mid-sized SUV pack, and has proved to be a very practical choice for families and towers alike.  

Four years after its launch, Škoda decided to give its high-selling Karoq a facelift. A new set of front and rear bumpers modernise the exterior and, more noticeably, there’s a new, pouty grille, and slimmer LED headlights and tail lights. My test car is the range-topping SportLine model which, as the name suggests, has a sporty look with gloss black trim instead of chrome, completed with the optional £390 metallic red paintwork. It also came with a set of aerodynamic 18in black alloys, although Škoda has changed these to a more handsome set of 19-inchers with a different design for 2023.  

The interior has seen fewer changes, which is a good or a bad thing depending on your point of view. Compared to the Peugeot 3008 and Kia Sportage, the Karoq’s simpler dashboard might come across as a little dated, but it is a logical and unfussy set-up, with big knobs and buttons – and, importantly, the quality screams at you.  

The doors thunk with a pleasing sense of solidity, and there’s squidgy, soft-touch plastic virtually everywhere. There are practical touches too, like a large storage bin in the centre console, elasticated netting in the door bins to securely store items, and a small umbrella under the passenger seat; the test car even had a small removable bin bag in the driver’s door pocket.

The tech updates are more evident, with all trim levels getting an eight-inch digital instrument display rather than the old model’s pair of clocks, and there are a number of new option packs. The Travel Assist Package Plus, at £1,495, for instance, adds features such as lane and traffic jam assist, adaptive cruise control and even a USB-C port in the rear-view mirror – perfect if you want to power a dashcam. The test car also had an upgraded infotainment system with wireless phone-charging, and a ‘Rough road package’, which adds protective panels to the underside of the car. Even the standard infotainment system is simple to use, and it’s easy to get comfortable in the Karoq.  

I’d question whether the SportLine’s high-backed bucket seats are needed in a family SUV, but they’re nevertheless supportive on long journeys.

Aside from the tech updates, it’s standard Karoq inside, so there’s plenty of leg and head room in the back. Škoda has carried over its clever VarioFlex rear seats, the £745 VarioFlex package (not available with the SportLine trim) replacing the standard rear bench with three individual seats which can be folded or even removed separately, adding a greater degree of flexibility. Boot space is very good, and although 4x4 models have slightly less room and there’s no height-adjustable floor at any trim level, it’s a practical area with cubbies, hooks and rails. And of course there’s Škoda’s trademark ice-scraper in the filler cap.      

Driving – 88%

Unusually, Škoda didn’t take the opportunity with this update to introduce some electrified powertrains in the form of mild-, full- or even plug-in hybrids. That means the Karoq soldiers on with 108bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder, 148bhp 1.5-litre and 187bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrols. And, while other carmakers are turning their backs on diesel power, the Karoq still comes with a pair of 2.0-litre diesels – 114bhp, or the 148bhp tested here. Only the 2.0-litre petrol and 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel come with four-wheel drive as standard, while it can be optioned on the lower-powered 114bhp 2.0-litre diesel. Due to its sportier positioning, the SportLine is the only trim level that gets the 2.0-litre petrol and high-powered diesel.  

On first impressions the Karoq drives pretty unremarkably, but spend more time with it and you realise that it’s a highly competent car. It steers, handles and goes with polish, and the suspension is more supple than the comparable Volkswagen Tiguan and SEAT Ateca. It’s very sure-footed and the four-wheel drive system gives a dose of extra traction in slippery conditions. The 2.0-litre diesel, meanwhile, is extremely smooth and is perfectly matched to the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox; it’s frugal too – I easily managed 48mpg on long runs unhitched.

Whether around town, on country roads or on motorways, the Karoq is a very comfortable and refined companion, and makes for an excellent daily driver.  

Towing – 92%

A good towcar needs to excel when unhitched and hitched, and this is exactly why the Karoq came out on top in 2023’s Towcar of the Year competition. During the judging, fully ballasted and hitched to a ballasted caravan, the Karoq acquitted itself impressively, attacking an assortment of roads and surfaces with confidence – one judge even remarked it ‘bossed’ the caravan.  

In this test a few months after the Karoq’s moment of glory in the competition, the car again impressed on public roads. In every situation the 2.0-litre diesel feels punchy, the gearbox smooth and the car agile; it even returned 27mpg when towing.

In some SUVs, opting for upgraded dampers can improve ride and handling when towing. Škoda does offer the Karoq with Dynamic Chassis Control, which can stiffen and slacken the dampers even further, but it’s not a necessary addition as the car is smooth and flat when hitched. Small but important features like mirrors that are easy to attach extended mirrors to, and an icon on the digital instrument display that shows when the electrics are properly hooked up are just bonuses.  

Verdict – 91%

The Škoda Karoq is certainly one of the best towcars currently on sale. It’s a superb all-rounder whether hitched or driving solo – it was clearly an easy decision to name it Towcar of the Year 2023.

Day 2 - Moscow

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. Moscow city tour City tour including all major sights of Russian capital such as Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, Bolshoi Theater, Kremlin Embankment, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Sparrow Hills and Moscow State University, Tverskaya Street, New Maiden Convent, the Diplomatic Village, Victory Park with the view on the Moscow International Business Center «Moscow City», the Triumphal Arch, Kutuzovsky Prospect, Arbat street and many other interesting places which are really worth to seeing. 13.00 – Excursion to Moscow Kremlin (territory + Cathedral) You have a guided tour of this historical fortress, where you visit the famous Square of Four Cathedrals and go inside one of its gorgeous cathedrals decorated with magnificent frescoes. 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 17.00 – Back to the hotel. Free time. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 17.00, transport from 10:00 to 17.00, Kremlin tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, dinner.

Day 3 – Moscow / Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. 10.00 – Visit of Cosmonautics museum 12.30 – Walking tour of VDNH park 14.00 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.30 – Transfer to the railway station. 17.30 – Departure to Saint Petersburg. 21.00 – Arrival to Saint Petersburg. Meeting with English speaking guide. Transfer to hotel. Accommodation at the hotel (extra). Services: Moscow – guide from 10.00 to 17.30, transport from 10.00 to 17.00, museum tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, r/w ticket (2d class), St.Petersburg – guide for meeting, transfer from r/w station to hotel.

Day 4 – Saint-Petersburg

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Saint Petersburg city tour with visiting of Peter and Paul Fortress

Visiting of Cathedral Mosque of St. Petersburg 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Free time in the city centre. Back to the hotel by metro. Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 18.00, transport from 10.00 to 14.30, metro ticket water 0,5 l PP, lunch

Day 5 – Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Excursion to Peterhof 13.00 – Lunch at the local (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.00-17.00 – St.Petersburg rivers and canals boat trip 17.00 – Back to the hotel. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 09:00 to 18:00, transport from 09:00 to 18:00, entrance to park, boat ticket, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Day 6 – Saint-Petersburg / Moscow

Transfer from hotel to r/w station 09:00 – Train departure From St.Petersburg. 12.58 – Arrival to Moscow. 13.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 14.30 – Transfer to the airport. Services: St.Petersburg – English guide, transport for transfer from hotel to a/p, r/w ticket (2d class) Moscow – English guide from 13.00 to 16.30, transport from 13.00 to 16.30, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Excursions are already included in this tour. You can make any changes: add, reduce, change the order, request any others that may be more interesting to you.

For this tour you can order a guide who speaks another language.

We provide professional guides who speak Chinese, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Greek, Chinese, Arabic (Farsi/Persian), Japanese, Turkish, Slovenian, Polish, Thai, Mandarin, Korean, Hungarian, Serbian, others.

All our guides are licensed and have extensive experience and will be your main assistant in communication.

Below there are basic model classes that we provide, including passenger cars no older than 6 years and some buses models with WI-FI, 2018-2019.

Standard cars (Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Jetta , Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hunda Elantra)

Comfort cars (Toyota Camry, Ford Mondeo, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Teana, Hyundai i40, Opel Insignia).

Business cars (Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5, Audi A6).

Executive cars (Mercedes-Benz S-class, BMW 7, Audi A8).

Minivans (Mercedes-Benz Viano, Hundai Starex, Mercedes Vito).

Minibuses (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit).

Buses (Iveco, Neoplan, Setra, Higer, Young, others).

The price of this tour may vary depending on the date of your arrival, as well as on the exchange rate of the local currency rubles against the US dollar and Euro.

For this tour you need to arrange entrance visa to Russia in advance. We are a licensed tour operator provide you with a letter of visa support. It will allow you to apply to the Consulate of Russia in your country and obtain an entry visa to Russia.

A number of countries of the world have the right to visa-free entry into Russia.

For this tour you can order additionally any services. Book a table in advance at the popular restaurant.

We will offer a selection of quality restaurants with different cuisines: Russian, European, Asian, Chinese, Mexican, Arabic, Halal, Indian, Gourme, others.

Order ticket for an evening performance for ballet, opera, folklore show, variety show, symphonic music concert

Any concierge service available upon your request.

• The tour is possible in any day
• Days of excursions may vary
• If change the exchange rate of the local currency (rubles) prices may be recalculate

• Russia DMC about
• Russia tours
• Russia incentive tours
• The best in Russia
• Our tour services