What's all this about?

The Skoda Karoq has gone under the knife for a little nip and tuck ahead of the 2022 model year. Following its launch in 2017 as a replacement for the Yeti, the Karoq has notched up a healthy number of sales, so Skoda is playing it safe with this mid-cycle update.

In fact, you'll need to look quite closely to spot any changes, most of which focus on the front of the Karoq. Like the recently launched Fabia, Skoda's mid-size SUV now gets a hexagonal grille design that sits between updated headlights featuring a slimmer look. Even the base version gets LED lighting now, and buyers can specify Skoda's LED Matrix lighting on the Karoq for the first time.

Other visual enhancements can be seen around the base of the front bumper, where new design elements around the air curtains help direct air into the wheel arches and out over the face of the wheels. Additionally, Skoda is adding two new wheel designs, in 17- and 19-inch diameters, that use trim inserts to reduce the amount of aerodynamic drag they create. This improves the car's efficiency. An extended roof spoiler and small finlets on each side of the tailgate channel airflow off the car's rear more cleanly to reduce drag, too. In the case of the all-wheel-drive Karoq, Skoda now fits aerodynamically optimised undertrays for the fuel tank that also cover the rear axle.

As with its predecessor, the new Karoq also comes in a distinct Sportline specification that gains a bespoke body kit with an all-black grille, black window surrounds, contrasting door mirrors, roof rails and badging on the rear. All new Karoqs gain slimmer rear light units with LED tech, and higher-spec versions get dynamic indicators and light animation when the car is unlocked.

What about on the inside?

Technology upgrades come to the inside with an eight-inch digital instrument display becoming the standard-fit item, replacing the old analogue dials. A more advanced 10.25-inch digital cluster is optionally available that offers a greater degree of configuration. Touchscreens for the centre console vary from 6.5- to 9.2 inches and provide the latest in smartphone connectivity; wireless charging can also be specified. There is a digital voice assistant called Laura, plus the availability of online connectivity for the latest news, weather forecasts and over-the-air updates.

For those with an eye on sustainability, Skoda will offer an Eco Pack for the Karoq. This option uses more environmentally friendly materials, such as seat covers made from recycled PET drinks bottles and other reclaimed materials, plus a vegan Suedia microfibre upholstery.

What about the engines?

The engine range is unchanged and starts with a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit that produces 110hp and is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. A four-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol option brings maximum outputs up to 150hp and 250Nm and comes with the choice of either six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG automatic transmissions.

There are two versions of the 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder on the diesel front, producing 116- and 150hp. Both are available with either six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions. The more powerful diesel automatic comes equipped with all-wheel drive.

When will it be available?

The updated Skoda Karoq should begin arriving in dealerships during the first quarter of 2022, but that date may slip with the ongoing semiconductor supply issues. Pricing is still to be confirmed, but it is expected to remain similar to the current offering. The specification grades are also unlikely to change, which start with the SE Technology and go up to the Sportline and Edition.