Skoda’s mid-size SUV has received a fresh look to exterior design and the use of some sustainable materials.
The Skoda Karoq has been updated four years after launch with new, sustainable materials, improved engine efficiency and new technology.
The Czech car maker’s popular SUV receives exterior design changes that include slimmer, rearranged LED lights at the front and rear, a wider, hexagonal grille and body-coloured bumpers.
The model also gains a longer, body-coloured rear spoiler, a front apron with air curtains, an aerodynamically optimised fuel tank and new alloy wheel designs available in 17 to 19-inch diameters. Skoda claims the changes contribute to a 9 per cent reduction in drag, to a Cd of 0.30, making the Karoq one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class.
The new Karoq can be selected with an Eco pack, which adds sustainable materials to the car’s cabin, such as vegan, leather-effect seat covers made from recycled materials. The door trim on some models is made of ‘Suedia’ (microsuede).
The range continues to offer the same drivetrains, meaning a likely lineup of 1.4 and 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines in Australia when the model launches next year.
Entry-level models now gain an 8.0in digital driver’s display as standard to replace the manual dials seen in the previous Karoq, as well as a host of travel assist systems, including front assist, pedestrian protection, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also included, with optional wireless phone charging.
SportLine models have been upgraded with LED matrix headlights and have Skoda’s Black Pack as standard, which adds black trim for the window frames, roof rails, rear diffuser, wing mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The new Karoq is expected to go on sale next year but prices have not yet been announced.
Jack Warrick