Skoda cuts price of Karoq SUV

There is a new value-focused family hauler for Aussies to choose and it brings a boat load of safety equipment and a long warranty.

2023 Skoda Karoq.

It’s now more than $5000 cheaper to get into a Skoda Karoq.

The Czech brand has added a new entry-level model priced at $39,990 drive-away. It is priced similarly to a base Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The introduction of the value-focused variant was first mooted by Skoda’s global chief Klaus Zellemer at the Munich motor show. He said the brand had “homework to do” on offering more affordable variants on some of its models.

There is now a cheaper Skoda Karoq variant.

Skoda Australia’s head of market and product Kieran Merrigan claims the Karoq shades its rivals.

“The new Karoq combines a large 521-litre boot volume with much more torque and lower fuel usage than a comparably priced entry Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson or Mazda CX-5 Maxx,” he says.

Power comes from a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes 110kW and 250Nm matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. Skoda claims the Karoq drinks 6.5L/100km but it needs pricier premium unleaded petrol.

The Karoq is packed with active driver aids.

Despite the lower price the new Karoq is packed with safety equipment, desirable features, a seven-year/unlimited km warranty and seven years of capped price servicing.

There are 18-inch alloy wheels, auto folding side mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an eight-inch driver’s instrument display and an eight-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Skoda also has a seven year warranty.

On the safety front the vehicle will automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential collision with a car, pedestrian or cyclist. It’ll warn you if a car is in your blind spot and sound the alarm if a vehicle approaches from the side as you reverse.

It also comes with auto wipers, dusk sensing headlights and dual-zone climate control.

There are only two optional extras on the base Karoq: premium paint for $770 and a prepaid service pack costing $2750 for seven years of scheduled visits.

Originally published as Skoda cuts price of Karoq SUV