2024 Skoda Karoq: Sub-$40k entry model announced

The 2024 Skoda Karoq mid-size SUV line-up has expanded with a new sub-$40k entry-level variant.

Priced from $39,990 drive-away nationally, the eponymous Karoq features less equipment than the $45,490 drive-away Karoq 110TSI Style – but retains the 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbo-petrol matched to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic and front-wheel-drive.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a smaller 8-inch digital instrument cluster, push-button start, front and rear parking sensors, and LED exterior lighting with sequential rear indicators.

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It also sports an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and power-folding heated side mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming.

Active safety features have been retained for the base Karoq, including autonomous emergency braking (vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist), lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a rear-view camera – as well as blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts that recently returned to the wider Karoq line-up.

The Karoq Style adds a full 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, DAB+ digital radio, a wireless phone charger, keyless entry, an anti-theft alarm system, chrome exterior trim, comfort front seats with lumbar support, a drive mode selector, privacy glass, and a hands-free electric tailgate.

It also adds some of Skoda’s practical ‘simply clever’ touches, including VarioFlex removable rear seats, a driver’s door bin, and a double-sided luggage net and cargo divider.

Skoda said the new Karoq variant is aimed at “savvy” buyers considering similarly-priced entry-level mid-size SUVs, calling out the Mazda CX-5 G20 Maxx ($38,888 drive-away with a Sydney postcode), a base Hyundai Tucson ($39,215 drive-away in Sydney), and the Kia Sportage S automatic ($39,958 drive-away in Sydney).

“The new Karoq combines a large 521-litre boot volume with much more torque and lower fuel usage than a comparably priced entry Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson or Mazda CX-5 Maxx,” said Skoda Australia marketing and product boss Kieran Merrigan.

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“Features such as an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and dual-zone climate control air-conditioning are simply not found with new Karoq’s ‘base’ and basic rivals.

“Add a seven-year warranty and affordable seven-year servicing, and you have a compelling value package that undoubtedly earns its place on the shortlist of the savvy buyer who has done their homework, eagerly anticipating a test drive.”

The 2024 Skoda Karoq base variant is available to order now. It can be optioned with $770 premium paint or a $2750 seven-year/105,000-kilometre dealer service plan.

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2024 Skoda Karoq pricing

All prices are drive-away.