The new Skoda Karoq compact SUV has gone on sale here from €27,715 for the 1.0 TSI (115 bhp ) petrol in the entry-level Ambition specification.
The 1.6 TDi (115 bhp ) diesel starts at €29.165 ). Both prices exclude the additional of €600 delivery charge, and the metallic paint option.
It is positioned just below its bigger SUV counterpart, the Kodiaq, in Skoda\s vehicle line-up. While the Kodiaq is primarily a seven-seat vehicle, the Karoq is strictly a five-seat compact SUV. And Skoda claims it offers all the space and functionality that are synonymous with the brand.
It is larger than the Yeti, which it replaces – 160mm longer, 48mm wider with the boot capacity increasing by 105 litres to 521 litres in standard format. Despite this, the Karoq is actually 13kg lighter than the outgoing Yeti.
From the exterior, the Skoda design language is evident with crystalline effects in the LED head lights and body panel lines. Skoda also claims that, like all its models, the Karoq offers class-leading luggage space and functionality, while in the cabin, the optional and unique VarioFlex seating system can be adjusted into multiple formats (or removed completely ) to accommodate the more bulky luggage transporting tasks. With VarioFlex seating, the standard luggage capacity increases to 588 litres. All Karoq versions are provided with a foldable umbrella that is stored neatly beneath the passenger seat.
The Karoq comes with a choice of four engine variants, ranging from 115bhp to 150bhp, with three DSG offerings as well as a 150 bhp 4X4. Skoda says navigation systems, Columbus and Amundsen, also offer a hotspot for onboard Wi-Fi. A wireless phone charger can also be added to the Karoq, removing unwanted cable clutter.
The Ambition trim comes standard with 17” Ratikon alloy wheels; 8” touch screen Bolero infotainment system, Climatronic air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, Smart Link+ and chrome roof rails and window surrounds.
Superb receives technology and specification upgrades
Meanwhile, the Skoda Superb has shot to second place on the sales leader board for large saloon/hatchback vehicles since its introduction in its current guise,
Skoda Ireland says this trend is set to continue in 2018 with some exciting safety, technological and specification upgrades now available across the range. The entry-level Superb Active 1.4 TSI (125bhp ) petrol is available from €28,150 + €600 delivery charge, and excluding the metallic paint option.
It claims the Superb has been successful among fleet buyers for some time and with motorway driving featuring more and more as an occupation, its radar operated lane assist, and blind spot detection will provide increased safety and security for drivers and other road users.
Connected services such as E-Call and Care Connect debuted in the Kodiaq SUV in March 2017 and are now provided as standard across the Superb range. The Superb features a built in SIM card, enabling calls to the Skoda’s customers service team and recovery services, as well as the emergency services in the event of an accident.
The Connect mobile App also gives owners access to see where their Superbs are located and the exact vehicle status at any time.
The new seven-speed DSG automatic transmissions are offered across the range and replace the older six-speed versions that have been available up to now.