The MQB-based SUV is slightly bigger than its predecessor, more technologically advanced
Yesterday we showed you the first spy shots of Skoda's successor to the Yeti, and today the automaker has released official photos with the new SUV (still wearing camouflage) along with detailed information.
Skoda also used the opportunity to confirm that the Yeti successor will be called Karoq, suggesting a significant departure from the Yeti. The name derives from the language of Alaska's indigenous people and is a combination of the terms ‘KAA'RAQ' (car) and ‘RUQ' (arrow).
Skoda says the Karoq offers "exceptional space in the interior and boot" thanks to a bigger footprint. The SUV is 4,382 mm long (+160 mm) and 1,841 mm wide (+48 mm), with a wheelbase of 2,638 mm (+60 mm) that increases legroom for rear passengers.
Only the height has decreased from 1,691 mm to 1,605 mm, allowing for a more dynamic appearance and lower center of gravity. Like its predecessor, the Skoda Karoq is all about practicality.
The luggage compartment has a capacity of 521 liters that can extend to 1,630 liters with the rear seats folded down. In combination with the optional VarioFlex rear seat, cargo volume becomes variable and can hold between 479 and 588 liters. The seats can also be completely removed, turning the Karoq into a van with a maximum loading capacity of 1,810 liters.
At launch, the Karoq will be available with five turbocharged direct injection engines (two gasoline and three diesel units) with displacements of 1.0, 1.5, 1.6, and 2.0 liters and outputs ranging from 115 hp to 190 hp.
All engines feature standard start-stop technology, brake energy recovery, and comply with EU 6 regulations. They can be linked to either a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed DSG, except the most powerful diesel which comes as standard with all-wheel drive and the dual-clutch transmission. As in the facelifted Octavia, the new 1.5 TSI features cylinder deactivation.
The Karoq will be the first Skoda vehicle to get a customizable digital instrument panel, with other new features including the optional full-LED headlights, and driver assistance systems such as the parking assistant, Lane Assist, and traffic-jam assistant. The Skoda Karoq will have its world premiere on May 18 in Stockholm, with the market launch to follow in the second half of this year.
If you have a big family, the seven-seat Skoda Kodiaq should tickle your fancy.