2018 Skoda Karoq Review

I often get asked which SUV is the best for boot space and storage.

The Skoda Karoq might just be the right answer to that question.

After all the decision to purchase an SUV is often based on the perceived extra space offered by the larger category so it may as well do a good job of it.

Rarely have I found a vehicle that utilises a space so wisely.

Exterior

There isn’t so much to say here in this regard – the Karoq looks like any other mid-sized SUV on the road.

Nothing stands out but at the same time not offensive.

Just the vertical stripes of the Skoda grille define the front end and characteristic of note is the puddle lamp that projects the logo not from the mirror but the bottom of the door so it’s visible from the seat when alighting.

Interior

The interior is also a bit on the dull side, with standard black plastic giving it a somewhat lower grade feel.

Cabin space is average for this size but the dashboard has a nice layout with the touchscreen and manual A/C controls situated above a neat row of buttons (inc. auto start/stop and park assist) for quick and convenient selection.

Seats in the front and the rear are upholstered in leather seats and appear robust and sturdy looking.

Rear seats don’t fold completely flat to be flush with the boot, though they do disengage at the pivot and roll forward to increase the loading capacity up back.

The best thing about the Karoq is the storability of the boot and parts of the cabin.

Skoda is the storage king.

For those who want a really functional boot, not only do you get the space, but you get a cargo net, double sided floor liner with rubber, railings with repositionable hooks for your shopping, ledges and pockets and even torch light.

Topping it off is a retractable cargo blind/parcel shelf that attached to the tail gate going with the door and not obstructing access.

There are three tether points too for child seats but they are wide, easy to access and clear to see at the base of each seat.

I’ve also never seen removable smartphone holders on the back of the headrests and the floor console has a two sided to suit your purposes.

There is even a hidden umbrella in a compartment under the passenger seat, so well concealed I didn’t even know it was there until after I gave back the keys.

Skoda have shown some keen ingenuity in a similar vein to what I encountered in the XC40 the previous week but is just a little more pragmatic and less flashy.

Features

Apart from the awesome storage features, the Skoda Karoq comes with a colour driver info display, four drive modes and well-designed gear shifter with an inconspicuous release button that matches the insert on the opposite side of the bulbous head.

The powered seats do have a memory function with three settings, but unlike most you have to press and hold to engage.

• Park assist
• Dual climate control
• Auto start/stop
• Heated seats
• Sat-nav
• Digital radio
• Electric park brake with auto hold

Drive and Engine

Forward motion is somewhat laggy in the Karoq even with the turbo aided powertrain however a 1.5 litre engine can only deal out so much.

Slow and steady without a sense of urgency is the nature of the SUV though it is more than adept for most normal situations.

The advantage is the faster changes through the seven gears courtesy of the dual clutch and when unnoticed.

Handling is okay, steering is a tad indistinct, and the average sized steering wheel could be thicker and more padded for better feel and control.

The ride is a little harsh and doesn’t possess the same sense of stability as, say, the XC40.

On the plus side your wallet won’t take a hit at the bowser at 6.2L/100km of economy.

Safety

• Adaptive cruise control
• Fatigue detection
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Blind spot detection
• Lane assist
• Park assist

Good Bits

• Storage options and capabilities
• Practical boot space
• Safety inclusions
• Rear folding seats

Not So Good Bits

• Low down power
• Interior fitout

Summary

While the Skoda Karoq isn’t the most stylish or the best performing, it is very practical.

With ingenious storage conveniences, Skoda shows that it’s the little things that count.

And in a world flooded with SUVs, it’s good to have a quality that sets you apart from the pack.

Facts and Figures: 2018 Skoda Karoq 110TSI

• Engine: 1.5L four-cylinder turbo petrol producing 110kW/250Nm
• Transmission: Seven-speed sports automatic DCT
• Warranty: 5 years/ unlimited km
• Safety: Five stars
• Origin: Czech Republic
• Price: from $35,290