Czech automaker, Skoda will play the major role for Volkswagen Group’s “India Plan 2.0” in terms of product development, engine technology and platform. The company will launch first product on the upcoming heavily localised MQB AO IN platform in 2020. Before that, Skoda is aiming at a 5-seater premium SUV segment to gain some momentum in the highly competitive market. The company will introduce its global Karoq SUV, which will come as a replacement for the Yeti SUV. Here we bring you 5 facts you should know about the upcoming Skoda Karoq –
Jeep Compass Rival
With Karoq SUV, Skoda will enter into the 5-seater premium SUV segment. This segment is currently dominated by Jeep Compass. To be slotted below the Kodiaq 7-seater SUV, the Karoq will challenge the Jeep Compass and Hyundai Tucson.
Skoda Karoq Photo Gallery
Launch In Early 2019
Skoda India will bring in the Karoq premium 5-seater SUV via CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route. The company will assemble the model at the Volkswagen Group’s manufacturing facility in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This 5-seater premium SUV will go on sale in the country in the first half of 2019. Also See – Skoda Karoq Exterior & Interior Photo Gallery
MQB Platform
The 5-seater premium SUV is based on the VW Group’s versatile MQB platform that also underpins the Skoda Kodiaq. This will be brand’s 4th model in India based on this popular platform, first 3 being the Kodiaq, Superb and Octavia. In terms of proportions, the Karoq is 4,382mm in length, 1,814mm in width and 1,605mm in height. The SUV has a long wheelbase of 2,638mm and stands at a ground clearance of 200mm. The SUV also has a boot space of 521-litres, which can be further extended up to 1,810-litres by folding the rear seats completely.
Won’t Be A Cheaper Model
This model will arrive in India as a CKD unit and Skoda will assemble the model locally. With most of components to be imported, the Karoq is likely to carry a hefty price tag. We believe that the base variant of the SUV could be priced around Rs 18 lakh, while the top-spec model is likely to cost around Rs 25 lakh. Read – Skoda Sunroq Is The Convertible SUV Based On India-Bound Karoq
Diesel Only
Skoda will initially launch the Karoq SUV in diesel avatar only. It will be powered by a tried & tested 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine that produces a maximum power output of 148bhp and a peak torque of 340Nm. For transmission duties, the SUV will get a 7-speed DSG and a 6-speed manual unit. Front-wheel drive layout will come as standard, while the top-spec model will come with all-wheel-drive layout.
