We video test the 2018 Skoda Karoq.

The ‘little bear’ of Skoda’s SUV range, which has arrived on the back of the fabulously successful full sized Kodiaq, has a reputation already for being something of a disruptor in the Medium SUV sector.

Physically, Karoq looks to be the replacement for the discontinued Yeti, though it actually fits into the next market segment up by virtue of Skodá innate ability to create big spaces in apparently small packages.

The Karoq comes to us as an SUV solution for all buyers: entry model, top end spec and the option of diesel 4x4 and petrol 2WD with turbocharged engines in both cases.

All come as standard with the seven-speed DSG transmission, 5-star EuroNCAP safety and a host of common safety tech regardless of specification. This includes Lane Assist, blind spot detection, rear traffic alert (with emergency braking), front and rear sensors with camera. After this, the Karoq offers a multitude of personalised options designed to suit any given lifestyle or requirement.

Karoq also boasts high tech engine features, including two-cylinder shut down for economy in the petrol engine models and of course, masses of torque in the diesel which makes it the ideal partner for a four-pawed version.

On that note, out of all the Karoqs driven, the diesel would have to take pride of place as the prime mover. The petrol variants have everything they need, so if you slightly reluctant to submit extra dollars for in this case, completely unjustifiable Road User Charges, you can still have your Karoq and eat it too. 

A reasonable price point against its competition is not usually pointed out as a highlight when it comes to European cars, but as with every Skoda, the pricing is not only fair when compared like-for-like with other brands, it’s downright competitive, and this is only part of what makes the Karoq – Simply clever.  

For more information go to http://www.skoda.co.nz/models/karoq/karoq