Skoda Karoq: The brand’s oldest model could get a new generation at some point

The Skoda Karoq could move on to a second generation, but it might not materialize for a while as the automaker awaits legislative certainty.

That’s what Martin Jahn, head of sales and marketing at Skoda, said Autocar The Czech automaker has a full range of combustion engine models and plans to keep them “as long as customers want them, as long as it is legally possible and as long as it is financially viable.”

Asked about the future of the Karoq, the oldest vehicle in Skoda’s range, Mr Jahn said a new generation “would certainly make sense”.

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He warned that registration of a second-generation Karoq depends on whether Europe implements its plans to ease the ban on new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars from 2035. Legislation drafted by the European Commission is currently awaiting ratification or amendment by the European Parliament.

Mr Jahn also added that Skoda will “wait as long as possible” to make a decision on a new Karoq, opening the door for a second facelift of the mid-size SUV. The Karoq was launched back in 2017 and received a comprehensive facelift at the end of 2021 with new front and rear designs as well as a revised interior with a digital instrument display.

If the Karoq does indeed enter its second generation, it will likely use the latest update to the long-running MQB architecture, which currently supports petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The upcoming Volkswagen T-Roc, which at 4.37m long is about the same size as today’s Karoq, will introduce a new hybrid powertrain that would be a logical addition to the second-generation Karoq’s powertrain offering.