New price makes Skoda Karoq a winner

In a world of increasingly expensive cars, this discounted model stakes a claim to being a smart choice for Aussie motorists.

Skoda has updated its mid-size Karoq SUV and reshuffled the line-up.

Here’s how the new model stacks up.

2024 Skoda Karoq

VALUE

The new line-up includes a new entry-level model known simply as Karoq.

It lowers the price of entry to the range by $5500 to $39,990 drive-away, placing it against the most affordable versions of the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

The entry Karoq has minimal design changes, the most notable being black roof rails in lieu of silver on other variants.

2024 Skoda Karoq

It has 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone ventilation, parking sensors front and rear, adaptive cruise control and an 8.0-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The seven-year warranty trumps most rivals and Skoda has competitive finance offers that include sharp weekly payment offers.

There’s no smart-key entry, one of a handful of omissions compared with other variants.

Beneath the bonnet is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo that delivers 110kW and 250Nm through an eight-speed auto.

COMFORT

It’s classified as a mid-sized SUV but the Karoq is smaller than most rivals from the outside.

Despite that, interior space is generous and those upfront are treated to nicely bolstered seats that are comfortable on long hauls.

2024 Skoda Karoq

The perforated leather steering wheel is a classy touch in an otherwise plain cabin. The ride tends towards firm but the suspension cushions well over big bumps and body control is good.

The entry Karoq misses out on the clever individually folding and removable rear seats of other models. Instead there’s a more traditional 60/40 split-folding arrangement. Rear passengers are looked after with air vents.

The boot is a decent size.

SAFETY

There’s no speed-sign recognition but that’s the main omission in an otherwise healthy spread of safety kit that includes blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert and airbags all around, including for the driver’s knee.

The Karoq’s independent crash rating has expired.

2024 Skoda Karoq

DRIVING

Despite its compact dimensions the Karoq delivers more of a big-car driving experience.

Steering is crisp and light for easy manoeuvrability around town but the car still feels secure and planted through the bends on the open road.

The diminutive engine isn’t particularly powerful but it’s got grunt where it’s needed at lower revs.

2024 Skoda Karoq

While that may not provide all you need for a snappy overtake, it delivers on comfortable cruising and relaxed running around the suburbs.

And while it needs premium unleaded, it doesn’t use much of it.

ALTERNATIVES

Toyota RAV4 GX, from about $44,000 drive-away: Get in quick if you don’t want a hybrid because the zingy but effective 2.0-litre engine is unlikely to be part of the RAV4 family for long. Ageing interior still delivers on space and functionality.

Mazda CX-5 Maxx, from $39,990 drive-away: Freshen-ups have kept the ageing mid-sizer competitive, especially with its cabin presentation. Solid driving manners make up for the just-OK 2.0-litre engine.

Kia Sportage S, from about $39,200 drive-away: High level of standard gear and seven-year warranty add to the appeal of its spacious body, although the 2.0-litre engine has to work hard.

2024 Skoda Karoq

SKODA KAROQ

PRICE: From $39,990 drive-away

WARRANTY/SERVICE: Seven years, unlimited k m, $2750 for seven years

SAFETY: Seven airbags, auto emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring

ENGINE: 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbo, 110kW/250Nm

THIRST: 6.5L/100km

BOOT: 521 litres

VERDICT

Gets the basics right with a functional and practical cabin, albeit one that lacks design flair. Turbo engine pulls strongly where it’s needed and sets the foundation for an above-average driving experience.

3.5 stars