Skoda Karoq Bookings Open At Rs 50,000 Ahead Of India Launch

Skoda will begin deliveries for the Karoq SUV on 6 May this year, and is expected to be available only in a fully loaded variant. The SUV is expected to feature a virtual cockpit dully digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof.

The company's new offering is also expected to arrive with full LED lighting, 17 inch alloy wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, nine airbags, and a 12-way electronically adjustable driver's seat.

As is, the Skoda Karoq will be offered in India with a 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that produces 150 brake horsepower and 250Nm of torque. The engine will arrive mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic.

Skoda claims that the Karoq SUV is capable of hitting the 0kmph to 100kmph mark in nine seconds, arrives with a top speed of 202kmph. While a four wheel drive model is available in the company's global markets, India will only receive the front wheel drive model.

The Skoda Karoq will be imported as a completely built unit, however the company says that the vehicle will be priced competitively. Skoda is using the 2,500 car import rule that allows a manufacturer to import upto 2,500 cars without the need to homologate them.

The Skoda Karoq is based on the company's MQB platform, and once launched, is expected to compete with the Jeep Compass, the MG Hector, and the Hyundai Tucson.

While there is no concrete information about pricing, industry expectations are that the vehicle could be priced roughly between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 24 lakh (ex-showroom).

Thoughts About Skoda India Opening Bookings For The Skoda Karoq At Rs 50,000

Well all seems to be going according to Skoda's plan. However, like we've said before, pricing will play a big factor. India is a massive market that is overtly price sensitive. And of course, the company will have to offer much in terms of technology, considering all its competition already does.