STYLE WITH SMARTS

With the mid-size SUV segment going gangbusters, this European aims high with kit and good looks

Nothing is hotter in a new car showroom than an SUV. Strong sales figures for SUVs show no sign of slowing, with more than half of all new vehicles sold so far this year coming from the high-rider genre. Medium-size SUVs – think of the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage – are the raging favourites.

That’s where the Karoq fits. Consider it the middle child of Skoda’s “Special Ks”, squeezed between the Kamiq and the Kodiaq.

During September, the Karoq benefited from some new kit and a minor makeover so we put it to the family test.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

KEL: You can see the European genes and I have quickly become a fan of the Skoda smarts. GRANT: Always thinking outside the box, the Czech manufacturer has taken its products to the next level under the Volkswagen stewardship. The Karoq raised the medium SUV bar when it was launched a few years back with features improved in the latest update. KEL: It looks pretty similar to the outgoing model; what’s the key changes and the price? GRANT: There’s a redesigned front end, better aerodynamics along with an upgraded rear bumper along with “dynamic” indicators which scroll. Fancy. Drive-away pricing for the base model Style is now $42,990. KEL: That’s a bit of a step-up from the high $30k mark previously, but inside it has a large infotainment screen, flatbottom steering wheel and an overall ambience that feels high-end.

GRANT: There’s a range of new inclusions, such as wireless phone charging, digital radio, hands-free electric tailgate opening, 18-inch alloys, rear spoiler and power folding side mirrors.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE?

KEL: Suave. I really like the look of the latest Skoda SUVs. In some circumstances, I like them more than the Volkswagens. GRANT: There is also the Sportline variant that is a $7k step up, but is far more athletic with a bigger engine and extra kit.

KEL: The interior was massive, more than enough to handle us and our two growing boys. GRANT: While the footprint isn’t as large as some of its competitors, the Karoq offers outstanding cabin space with generous head and leg room.

KEL: Grocery bags spilling into the back seat was no chance after our weekly shop.

GRANT: Boot space is among the best you’ll get. The rear seats can slide forward and fold vertically to allow for a flat load space. All three can also be completely removed.

KEL: I do like the various nets available in the boot. It’s super handy if you only have one bag or small items to stop them rolling around. GRANT: There are also umbrella compartments under the front seats. They can be stored wet with the water

draining outside the car.

WHAT DIDN’T YOU LIKE?

KEL: Getting into this kind of money, I’d like to see leather trim. But at the least heated seats.

GRANT: Both are only available as part of a Premium Pack for $10,900. It does also include all the features of the $5900 Tech Pack like satnav, LED headlights, bigger touchscreen and a swag of extra safety gizmos, including surround-view camera, lane-assist and traffic jam-assist, which can take over the driving when you are least interested.

KEL: Those driving aids are brilliant so it’s unfortunate you have to spend a hefty amount to have them included.

GRANT: The most important latest equipment is included, such as auto emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and driver-fatigue detection, but I agree.

HOW WAS THE DRIVE?

KEL: Getting away from the lights, it was responsive without delivering anything scintillating.

GRANT: It’s the same engine and eight-speed automatic transmission that you’d find in a Volkswagen Golf. The turbo four-cylinder is consistent and adept in various conditions – which never felt underpowered on the highway or through hilly terrain.

KEL: The steering was light, though I never felt like I lacked vehicle control.

GRANT: Not having low-profile tyres works in its favour in terms of ride, and the Karoq takes bumps and lumps in its stride.

KEL: Europeans always worry me with running costs, how was the consumption?

GRANT: Exactly the same as what Skoda claimed at 6.5 litres per 100km – but it runs on premium unleaded. A big new inclusion is a seven-year warranty, and if you take a sevenyear prepaid service pack, it’s $2400 ($1550 for five years).

WOULD YOU BUY ONE?

KEL: Without doubt I would own a Karoq, though I’d have to spend the extra money to gain the features I have become accustomed to loving. That takes it to nearly $50,000, which changes the equation.

GRANT: All-round comfort, European good looks and interior smarts work in the Karoq’s favour. Extra standard safety and interior equipment would be required to entice my purchase. Supply levels are good so it may trump plenty of rivals due to availability.