Suzuki Ignis vs Skoda Karoq
What's the difference?

Suzuki Ignis

$10,990 - $20,990

2021 price

View pricing & specs

Skoda Karoq

$24,990 - $49,990

2024 price

View pricing & specs

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Mini Countryman

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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2021 Suzuki Ignis

2024 Skoda Karoq

By Byron Mathioudakis

By James Cleary

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.2L

Turbo 4, 1.4L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

4.9L/100km (combined)

6.5L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Striking design
Superb agility
Ease of operation

Refinement
Value
Practicality

Dislikes

No AEB, DAB+ and telescopic steering
Stiff ride, noisy cabin
Poor EuroNCAP crash-test rating

Dated interior
Non-linear power delivery
Needs premium unleaded

2021 Suzuki Ignis Summary

Welcome to one of the world’s tiniest SUVs, as well as amongst Australia’s cheapest – Suzuki’s diminutive Ignis.

There’s an Aussie connection. Holden designer Peter Hughes styled the original YG Cruze based on the first (FH) Ignis of 2000, with both models sharing most components underneath; but the latter was not well received, prompting Suzuki to change tack for its reborn Swift replacement of 2004. Yet the name and concept were revived 11 years later (without GMH) for the retro-themed high-riding hatch/crossover you see here today.

The point? This quick history lesson serves to remind us how similar both Ignis generations are, as well as how devoted Suzuki is in its pursuit of owning the light SUV space.

In June 2020, a facelifted MF arrived, brandishing a revised grille, bumpers and trim to give it a chunkier appearance, along with minor spec changes.

Here we take a long look at the GLX auto.

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2024 Skoda Karoq Summary

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.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Suzuki Ignis 2024 Skoda Karoq

Verdict

With statement styling, inherent agility, excellent efficiency, proven reliability, high equipment levels and low entry pricing, the 2021 Ignis GLX is in danger of becoming a mandatory short-list proposition for people seeking fun and affordable motoring.

But undermining all that is a distinct lack of driver-assist safety tech that can’t be – and shouldn’t be – ignored. At least give buyers the option of paying more for essentials like AEB.

If Suzuki can address this shortfall, the Ignis would join its excellent Swift supermini stablemate in being a very compelling and enjoyable compact urban runabout. We hope this happens sooner rather than later.

Verdict

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.

Suzuki Ignis vs Skoda Karoq What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Suzuki Ignis vs Skoda Karoq
What's the difference?