Skoda Karoq to launch in India next year to challenge the Hyundai Tucson - Report

Called the Skoda Karoq, the long-awaited successor to the Skoda Yeti is reported by Overdrive to arrive in H2 2018 in India. Like the Kodiaq, it will be assembled at the company's facility in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Once the Karoq arrives, expect competition from the likes of the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan and Isuzu MU-X.

The Yeti successor measures 4,382 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width and 1,603 mm/1,607 mm in height and has a 2,630 mm-/2,638 mm wheelbase. There are design elements borrowed from the Kodiaq SUV but looks more butch and rounded than the Yeti. It will be Skoda's fourth product to ride on the MQB platform, and expected to be one of their volume products.

Inside, the styling is unmistakably Skoda. Internationally, the Karoq is the first Skoda to feature a digital instrument panel, although it is unlikely that the Indian model will feature it. Other highlights include a 9.2-inch Colombus infotainment system, Skoda Phonebox for wireless charging and enhanced cellular connectivity, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detect and Rear Traffic Alert, City Emergency Brake with Predictive Pedestrian Protection, Lane Assist, Driver Alert and Traffic Sign Recognition. Most of the features listed will not enrich the India-spec model.

Instead, expect top-end models to get dual-zone climate control, 8.0-inch touchscreen Proximity Sensor-based infotainment system with Amundsen navigation, 12-way power-operated seats, leather upholstery, auto-dimming IRVM and ambient lighting.

Also Read: Skoda to introduce Hyundai Creta rival in 2020 – Report

Under the hood, the Karoq could borrow the lineup from the Skoda Octavia, which includes the 1.4-litre TSI petrol (147 hp/250 Nm) and 2.0-litre TDI diesel (141 hp/320 Nm). Both will be paired with DSG gearboxes as standard, while top-end models could get a 4x4 system.

[Source: Overdrive]