- Design: modern dynamic SUV design language
- Powertrains: four new engines, powerful and efficient TSI and TDI
- Chassis: state-of-the-art technology, up to five driving modes and special Off-Road mode
- Driver assistance systems: extended range for increased safety and comfort
- ŠKODA Connect: infotainment with capacitive touch screen in glass design and Care Connect for assistance
- Equipment: Full-LED headlights, digital instrument panel
- ŠKODA drives SUV campaign forward with the ŠKODA KAROQ
Mladá Boleslav / Stockholm, 18 May 2017 – The ŠKODA KAROQ is a completely new compact SUV from the long-standing Czech brand. The emotive and dynamic design with numerous crystalline elements characterises ŠKODA’s new SUV design language. As a true ŠKODA, the ŠKODA KAROQ offers exceptional space, new driver-assistance systems, full‑LED headlights and – for the first time in a ŠKODA – a digital instrument panel. Five engine variants are available from 85 kW (115 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS), of which four are new. Typical of ŠKODA are smart ideas for the brand’s new compact SUV which include features such as the rear-seat VarioFlex system and the virtual pedal for the hands-free opening of the boot. Longer items can be comfortably transported in the interior of the compact SUV – thanks to the folding front passenger seat.
It is clear from the exterior shape, modified lines and larger dimensions that this is a completely new vehicle. The ŠKODA KAROQ is a sports utility vehicle with character: The emotive and dynamic design with numerous crystalline elements characterises ŠKODA’s new SUV design language.
The compact SUV measures 4,382 mm in length, is 1,841 mm wide, and 1,605 mm high. The increase in size benefits the passengers. The kneeroom is 69 mm. The long wheelbase of 2,638 mm (all-wheel version: 2,630 mm) gives the ŠKODA KAROQ a comfortable stance on the road and provides an indication of the generously proportioned interior.
The ŠKODA brand stands for an exceptional package. This also applies to the new KAROQ. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 521 l with the rear seats in place. With the rear seats folded down, the volume increases to 1,630 l. The VarioFlex system consists of three separate seats, which can be individually adjusted and also be completely removed – and the KAROQ is then converted into a van-like SUV with a maximum load capacity of 1,810 litres.
Segment leader: connectivity solutions
The ŠKODA KAROQ is at the top of its segment with innovative connectivity solutions. The infotainment building blocks come from the second generation of the Group’s Modular Infotainment Matrix, offering state-of-the-art functions, interfaces and equipped with capacitive touch displays. The top systems Columbus and Amundsen have a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional LTE module is available for the Columbus system. The Internet connection is based on today’s fastest mobile radio standard, with which passengers can surf and access email freely with their phones and tablets.
The new ŠKODA Connect mobile online services are divided into two categories: Infotainment online services are used for information and navigation; the CareConnect services for assistance in case of breakdowns and emergencies. The Emergency Call button, which will be part of the standard equipment in Europe from 2018, is now available as an optional CareConnect service. Additional online services can be accessed via the ŠKODA Connect app. These can be used to remotely check details, configure and find the parking place of your car using a smartphone.
The intelligent capability of pairing a car with a smartphone has reached a new level in the ŠKODA KAROQ. The SmartLink+ platform, compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLinkTM, is available as an option for the basic infotainment system Swing. SmartLink+ comes as standard with higher infotainment systems. The Phonebox with inductive charging couples the smartphone to the roof antenna and simultaneously charges it wirelessly.
Reliable helpers: driver assistance systems
The ŠKODA KAROQ offers a comprehensive range of driver assistance systems. New comfort systems include Park Assist, Lane Assist and Traffic Jam Assist. Blind Spot Detect, Front Assist with predictive pedestrian protection and Emergency Assist serve to increase safety.
Additional driver assistance systems are available for the ŠKODA KAROQ to keep the car at a safe distance from the car ahead, to make it easier for the driver to change and keep in lane, to point out important traffic signs, and to assist when parking.
The freely programmable digital instrument panel is available for the first time in a ŠKODA. In the ŠKODA KAROQ, the cockpit displays can be set to the driver’s individual preferences.
Full-LED headlights with clear-lens optics are available as an option for the ŠKODA KAROQ from the Ambition trim level upwards. In the interior, new LED ambient lighting in the decorative door trims and the dashboard creates a pleasant atmosphere, which can be set to one of ten colours.
Powerful and agile: engines and chassis
The ŠKODA KAROQ offers state-of-the-art technologies for engines. Five engine variants – two petrol and three diesel engines – are on offer. The two petrol engines and two diesels are new in the line-up. The displacement ranges are 1.0, 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0 l; the power range is from 85 kW (115 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS). All powertrains feature turbo-charged direct injection units as well as stop-start technology and brake energy recovery. They are extremely efficient and comply with EU 6 regulations. With the exception of the most powerful diesel, all drivetrains can be ordered with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed DSG. The 2.0 TDI with 140 kW (190 PS) comes as standard with 4×4 drive and 7-speed DSG. The new 1.5 TSI has the special feature of cylinder deactivation.
The ŠKODA KAROQ chassis also sets benchmarks in its segment and demonstrates its quality, even off the beaten track. From the Ambition trim level upwards, Driving Mode Select with the Normal, Sport, Eco, Individual and Snow (4×4) modes is available on request. The Off-Road mode with all-wheel drive improves the driving characteristics on rough terrain.
2025 Strategy: ŠKODA drives SUV campaign forward
As part of ŠKODA’s 2025 Strategy, the brand will be continually expanding its model range over the coming years. The primary focus will be on broadening the SUV range. Most recently, the ŠKODA KODIAQ became the brand’s first large SUV to be launched in the international markets. With the ŠKODA KAROQ, the company has now reached the next milestone. The new compact SUV market launch is set for the second half of 2017.
Topic overview
Design:
Expressive, dynamic and emotive
- Compact ŠKODA SUV with a clear design language
- Full-LED headlights and LED tail lights
- Side view with short overhangs and distinct tornado line
From the very first glance, it is evident that the ŠKODA KAROQ is a completely new car. With its emotive and dynamic design as well as its numerous crystalline elements, it is the latest representative of the new ŠKODA design language. At the same time, the expressive and powerfully robust exterior clearly indicates its use as a compact SUV.
The striking three-dimensional front section symbolises protection and strength with its contours. The front is characterised in particular by the geometrically shaped headlights with precise contours. From the Ambition trim level upwards, full-LED headlights in a clear glass design are used. A narrow strip of lights running along the bottom edge of the main headlights provides homogeneous indicator and daytime running lights. The fog lights, which come with full-LED technology and the cornering function, are positioned below the main headlights. The radiator grille, which is framed by a chrome trim, features the trapezoid shape that is typical of ŠKODA. The large ŠKODA brand logo sits proudly at the end of the distinct bonnet.
The long wheelbase is easily visible in the side view and points to the generous interior. The side is characterised by short overhangs at the front and rear, the sloping roofline that is visually extended by a contour in the D-pillar, and the tapered rear.
A line runs from the headlights to the rear with the highest degree of precision; it streamlines the body and gives it structure. The wheel arches are framed by wide angular trims – a typical design feature for the ŠKODA SUV – and make the ŠKODA KAROQ appear even more powerful.
The width of the body is emphasised at the rear by the horizontal lines. The flat, raked rear lights are divided into two: their outer section is embedded in the sidewall frames, whilst the inner section is in the tailgate. The reflectors sit below the rear sensors on the outer edges of the rear bumper. The lights at the rear include tail lights, brake lights and number plate illumination with LED technology. The tail lights form the ŠKODA-typical ‘C’ shape.
The new compact SUV is fitted with 16- or 17-inch wheels as standard which are available with three different designs. 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels are optional extras.
