Here are the 4 reasons to buy and 4 reasons not to buy the Skoda Karoq.
The Skoda Karoq launched in India on 26th May, priced at Rs. 24.99 lakhs (ex-showroom). Just like its sibling, the VW T-Roc, the Karoq is imported directly via CBU. It is available in a single variant with single petrol engine option. We tell you the reasons to buy.
4 Reasons To Buy
Styling – Skoda’s design DNA is quite consistent across their range of products. Same is the case with Karoq. It looks like a younger brother of the Kodiaq. Classic and simple styling, which will appeal to a wide audience. Gets a sleek front profile while the rear is attractive too with C-shaped tail lights. Moreover, it gets decent dose of chrome to please Indian buyers.
Features – The Karoq is well equipped and is offered in a single fully-loaded trim. Key highlights include – full LED adaptive headlights, panoramic sunroof, Skoda logo projection, Virtual Cockpit, 12-way electric adjust driver seat, TPMS, ambient lighting, dual zone climate control, etc.
Engine – Many new products in the Skoda VW family is using the 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol engine. The BS6 motor produces 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed DSG auto gearbox. It also comes with cylinder deactivation tech. Deactivates 2 out of 4 cylinders if it senses relaxed driving to boost efficiency.
Safety – Skoda has left no stone unturned while offering safety features in the Karoq. It comes with 9 airbags, ABS, EBD, anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, electronic stability control, tyre pressure monitoring, etc.
4 Reasons Not To Buy
Price – With an on-road price of Rs. 29.67 lakhs (OTR Mumbai), it is way too expensive. It costs Rs. 5 lakh more than the VW T-Roc, which is essentially the same car but slightly smaller in size. You can save Rs. 6 lakhs with a Jeep Compass.
Size To Price Ratio – In this price bracket you get much bigger cars like Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Innova Crysta and even the huge Kia Carnival’s premium variant! For the Indian market, the size to price ratio matters a lot.
No Diesel – Skoda has discontinued diesel engine options in India and has no plans to get it back anytime soon. Now the Karoq is available only in a single petrol engine option while majority of its rivals are available with a diesel engine. People in India usually prefer diesels for SUVs and Skoda will miss that opportunity with the Karoq.
Service – Skoda’s after sales has improved a lot over the past few years. White the service quality has improved, it is still expensive to maintain, specially the CBU products. While the localised Rapid won’t get you heavy bills, the directly imported Karoq might burn a hole in your pocket if you need to replace any parts. CBU products are usually more demanding in terms of service time and service cost. Most of the parts are sourced from outside the country.
