What's the difference?
Typically appealing to those seeking quality engineering and tech without feeling the need to make a boastful badge statement, Skoda is a low-key, ultra-confident brand.
On sale here since 2018, the Skoda Karoq is a comparatively small fish in one of the most hotly contested segments in the Australian new-car market, namely medium SUVs, the leading trio consisting of the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander.
To increase its appeal against these and other high-profile contenders Skoda Australia has introduced a new entry-level Karoq designed to hit the Goldilocks zone between attractive standard specification and sharp pricing. CarsGuide was invited to its local launch.
The updated Audi Q7 is a bit of a game of ‘spot the difference’ - but even though it’s far from a new generation, the update is more than just some shiny new bits.
While the brand’s first SUV is still in its second generation, a bit of modernised design and some tech tweaks are aimed at keeping it in line with rivals, even as it nears a decade on sale.
As well as the new features, there’s also a new variant bound for Aussie showrooms. So, is it still up to the task?
This new entry-level Karoq gives the already accomplished mid-size SUV an even sharper value-for-money edge. On top of that it's space efficient, hugely practical and economical. Safety's up to speed, the ownership package is solid and it's a quiet, refined drive. Before joining the RAV4 queue, we'd suggest giving this Skoda some serious thought.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.
Overall, changes to the Q7 aren’t quite revolutionary, but that’s okay because it was already a fantastic large SUV.
The fact Audi has kept the price around the same mark and introduced a cheaper entry-grade should be welcome news for prospective buyers.
But even the existing variants are capable and impressive family haulers… and now they’re just that little bit better.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.