Buyer’s guide to the 2023 Skoda Karoq

Buyer’s guide to the 2023 Skoda Karoq

Skoda’s mid-size SUV makes a great family car

Skoda has been one of the most successful firms when it comes to SUVs, introducing four modes as part of its line-up. 

It’s the Karoq that sits right in the middle of the range. Arriving in 2018 as a replacement for the well-loved Yeti, this Skoda brings a very roomy interior, great value and a very comfortable ride, helping it to become one of the firm’s most popular cars. 

Recently refreshed with a new design and greater equipment, let’s take a look at what the 2023 Skoda Karoq has to offer.  

What engines are available?

While the Karoq is yet to be available with an electrified derivative, Skoda offers it with a good choice of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. 

Kicking off the line-up is a 108bhp 1.0-litre unit, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. It’s able to accelerate from 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds, with Skoda claiming 48.6mpg. Above this is the popular 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol, available with a manual or DSG automatic transmission. This brings the 0-60mph time down to 8.8 seconds while returning up to 46.3mpg. 

The most powerful Karoq is a 187bhp 2.0-litre petrol paired with a DSG automatic. It also comes with a four-wheel-drive system, and can take the Karoq to 60mph in just 6.8 seconds, though fuel economy takes a hit – Skoda claims 36mpg. 

If you’d prefer a diesel, there are two 2.0-litre TDI units available, available with 114bhp or 148bhp. The former gets a choice of manual or automatic gearbox, with the latter only being offered as an auto, and with four-wheel-drive as standard. With the 114bhp model able to return almost 60mpg, it’s the most efficient Karoq in the range. 

What trim levels are offered?

Skoda has trimmed the Karoq line-up in recent months, with just three grades now available. Equipment highlights and prices are as follows.

SE Drive – from £27,470

All Karoq models come with plenty of equipment, with the entry-level SE Drive featuring 17-inch alloy wheels, electric folding mirrors, dual-zone climate control and rear parking sensors. You also get an eight-inch digital dial display and an eight-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

SE L – from £29,305

Upgrading to the SE L brings larger 18-inch alloy wheels and revised styling thanks to its chrome roof rails and an extended rear spoiler. You also get heated front seats, microsuede upholstery, a reversing camera and keyless entry. 

Sportline – from £34,205

At the top of the line-up, the Sportline brings added style to the Karoq thanks to its large 19-inch alloy wheels, gloss black styling kit and Matrix LED headlights. You also get a panoramic sunroof, an electric boot and LED interior lighting. 

What about personalisation?

Skoda offers the Karoq with a surprising degree of personalisation, with the model available in nine different colours, including bright shades like Phoenix Orange, Velvet Red and Petrol Blue. 

There’s a long list of optional extras available too, many of which are bundled into packages. These include a Convenience Package, which boasts electric front seats and additional storage. There’s also the Travel Assist Package Plus, which boasts adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition. 

You can also upgrade to a larger 9.2-inch Colombus satellite navigation, though we personally don’t reckon it’s worth the extra spend.

Enquire on a new Skoda Karoq