Dear All, in early 2006 I bought a 6-month old Fabia that I still run today 😃 However, the time has come for a replacement and I'm after some advice/help. Caring for ageing relatives means I'm on the motorway much more these days so I have thought about something bigger and recently tried a Karoq that I liked. I'm looking for 1-3 years old Karoq and have some general questions (as well as SE vs SEL models):

 

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid?
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual?
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq?
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive?
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)?
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken?
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options?
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)?
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth?

 

Any answers to one or more questions above would be greatly appreciated. As well as any general advice I might have missed. Thanks in advance for any help, Nick

59 minutes ago, NickGreen said:

Dear All, in early 2006 I bought a 6-month old Fabia that I still run today 😃 However, the time has come for a replacement and I'm after some advice/help. Caring for ageing relatives means I'm on the motorway much more these days so I have thought about something bigger and recently tried a Karoq that I liked. I'm looking for 1-3 years old Karoq and have some general questions (as well as SE vs SEL models):

 

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid?
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual?
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq?
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive?
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)?
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken?
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options?
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)?
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth?

 

Any answers to one or more questions above would be greatly appreciated. As well as any general advice I might have missed. Thanks in advance for any help, Nick

I own a Karoq now for last 2 years, Edition model, 1.5 DSG. Some of the answers to your questions:

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid? This is the biggest thing  hate about DSG, from beginning (I bought it with 5.5k miles on the clock) it was cangarooing, I took it to dealer couple of times and they said its fine, I remapped it and it still does it. Sometime over speed bumps it got stacked in 1st gear and needs to be revved up to 3000rpm to go to 2nd. Hate the thing. Saying this - my wife never noticed or never mentioned any of these issues to me, so may be it is just me.
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual? DSG does it mostly and more evident when it is cold.
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq? No idea
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive? I am sure it will make the difference, even with 17" wheels. I put on it all season tyres, Pirelli, and they are much quieter and comfier than Bridgestone the car came with.
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)? Yes, but stop/start needs to be deactivated every time you start the car, not sure about "lane control/assist" which tbh I like and never switched it off.
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken? I think it can, ECU should adjust automatically. I did use very often E10 fuel and not had an issue in a last 30k miles.
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options? Possibly, but you will have a piece of mind as it will come with 2 years Skoda used warranty, which is not that great anyway
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)? Like any car, depends on spec/service history
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth? I didn't extend my warranty, may be other aftermarket warranties are better, need to read small print. My friend had issues with PDC and rear window heater and Skoda said it is not covered by wararanty.

Very important - check air con IS working, I had to go back to dealer 6 times to fix it and I think it is still not fixed but not too cold outside to really try it.

Another point, check for dampness in the passenger foot well, VW cars are famous for leaks, especially if car comes with sun-roof, also, I noticed the car is louder with sun roof compared to one without. 

Some owners had leak problems badly installed windscreens from factory, blocked drainage, I had a leak through rear door speaker - at least that what Skoda told me.

Engines are not very economical, apart from 1.0ltr petrol, on mine I did 38.9mpg over 2 years and I mostly drive on A/B roads. However, down to London I easily achieved 45mpg, but I was trying hard to get that number. 

Don't go for 4x4, fuel consumption plummets even further, especially with 1.5 petrol, just get good all-season tyres if you need to.

 

I hope it helps.

 

Vlad

1 hour ago, NickGreen said:

Dear All, in early 2006 I bought a 6-month old Fabia that I still run today 😃 However, the time has come for a replacement and I'm after some advice/help. Caring for ageing relatives means I'm on the motorway much more these days so I have thought about something bigger and recently tried a Karoq that I liked. I'm looking for 1-3 years old Karoq and have some general questions (as well as SE vs SEL models):

 

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid?
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual?
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq?
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive?
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)?
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken?
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options?
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)?
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth?

 

Any answers to one or more questions above would be greatly appreciated. As well as any general advice I might have missed. Thanks in advance for any help, Nick

 

1.  1.5 TSI DSG has the DQ200 7 speed dry clutch.  While there are reported issues the gearbox has had many improvements over the years and there are hundreds of thousands in service. 

2.  Kangarooing affected the 1.5 TSi EVO engine and mainly the manual versions.  The Facelift Karoq has the EVO 2 engine that eliminates kangarooing but some manual drivers have reported cutting out issues. This does not affect the DSG.

3.  SE doesn't have driving modes but there's very little difference between Eco and Normal on the SEL. The very slight economy gain doesn't make up for the lack in throttle response for me so I never use ECO.

4.  SEL on 18's (50 profile 2WD) is very slightly firmer than 17's (55 Profile 2WD) on the SE.  The Sportline has 19's (40 Profile 2WD)  and is very noticeably firmer over poor surfaces.  Although the SEL is slightly firmer the added comfort of the heated microfibre seats more than makes up for it IMO.

5.  If Lane assist is fitted I believe it has to be turned of each time but not many SE and SEL's at 1 to 3 years old will have it as it was dropped as standard spec due to chip shortages.

6.  Both run fine on E10 95 Ron Unleaded.

7. Yes expensive but good peace of mind if you use a good dealer.

8.  I'd go facelift for the EVO2 engine even if that meant a few more miles on it.

9.  If you get a 1 to 2 year old example you should be offered an extended warranty at the end of the three year period or have an offer to take out a warranty and service plan.  Decide then if you think it's worth it.

---
I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid?
 

Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual?

---

I have a Karoq Sport Line 1.5 TSI DSG (71 plate) that I've been driving for the past three years with not a single issue. No kangarooing.
 

I drive a 2022 1.5 tsi superb dsg, which is the same engine and gearbox. No kangaroo issues, love the dsg.

Friend has a 2020 karoq with the same engine and gearbox again no issues, in fact we went to the Peak District in it a couple of weeks ago, great car.

The 1.5 tsi engine is brilliant, very reliable and economical. Just get a good test test drive and make sure you like it.

I know it’s anecdotal to me but I get better mpg in normal than eco.

Edited 26 September, 20241 yr by classic

5 hours ago, NickGreen said:

Dear All, in early 2006 I bought a 6-month old Fabia that I still run today 😃 However, the time has come for a replacement and I'm after some advice/help. Caring for ageing relatives means I'm on the motorway much more these days so I have thought about something bigger and recently tried a Karoq that I liked. I'm looking for 1-3 years old Karoq and have some general questions (as well as SE vs SEL models):

 

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid? ANSWER 1.0, 1.5 petrol engines use DQ200 dry clutch DSG, we have this in our 2015 plate Fabia, there have been issues pre 2015, the DSGs are brilliant in use, I’m on my 3rd not had any problems. See at dnd for some general DSG tips.
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual? ANSWER seems that it’s more noticeable on manuals, DSG seems to either mask the issue or not be affected.
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq? ANSWER I have ECO mode on my Sportline no issues with it possibly saved a little fuel an long motorway journeys.
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive? ANSWER search this forum there is lots of advice about wheel and tyre choices. Mine had 19” wheels with 225/45 tyres and yes it’s firmer than our Fabia but not uncomfortable.
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)? ANSWER S/S resets, lane assist I’ve left on and it’s never beeped at me yet. Note S/S on DSG cars can be controlled by brake pedal pressure and moving steering wheel. Auto Hold is linked too.
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken?  ANSWER yes but I run our 1.2 110bhp Fabia on VPower.
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options? ANSWER buying through the dealer network gives peace of mind. Skoda dealers are likely to have slightly higher prices than the used car supermarkets.
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)?ANSWER full service history, with services every 12 months or 9,000 miles is I think most important. Avoid any examples that has used variable service intervals - you could have a company car 3 years  old that’s only had one oil change service.
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth? Depends his long you intend to keep the car. Our 2015 Fsbua waz bought in 2016 with 900 recorded miles from a car supermarket, took a gamble and it’s been fine. My previous DSG VW did 108000 miles in 11 years no DSG issues, I don’t have an extended warranty on my Karoq.

 

Any answers to one or more questions above would be greatly appreciated. As well as any general advice I might have missed. Thanks in advance for any help, Nick

See responses inserted into the Quote above.

DSG Tips with S/S slightly releasing brake pedal pressure can restart the engine as can moving the steering wheel, so at traffic lights use the orange light to restart, Auto hold applies the  parking brake pressing throttle restarts engine and releases parking brake. I move the steering  wheel to restart just before I need to move at junctions. Auto hold is switchable. 
 

You probably won’t want the 2.0L petrol but it’s worth driving one as it has the wet clutch DSG which I personally prefer. If you’ve driven torque converter autos previously  then the DSG is different it’s a conventional manual box with an automated clutch and gear selection mechanism.

The paddles to make manual gear changes are something I thought I’d use as the other two DSG cars didn’t have them - I don’t use them! 
 

1.5 Tsi switches to 2 cylinder mode to save fuel, DSG can also coast which also saves fuel.

On 26/09/2024 at 14:22, NickGreen said:

Dear All, in early 2006 I bought a 6-month old Fabia that I still run today 😃 However, the time has come for a replacement and I'm after some advice/help. Caring for ageing relatives means I'm on the motorway much more these days so I have thought about something bigger and recently tried a Karoq that I liked. I'm looking for 1-3 years old Karoq and have some general questions (as well as SE vs SEL models):

 

1. I'm keen to get an automatic but have read some issues about DSG? It seems there are some issues for DSG in 1.5 TSI engines? Is that correct? Any (model) years to avoid?
2. Do 1.5 TSI DSG engines have an issue starting from cold (kangarooing)? Or is that just manual?
3. Is Economy (ECO) mode available in SE model? Does ECO mode save much fuel? Again, I've read of a few ECO issues, are these correct or does ECO mode run fine in Karoq?
4. When I test drove Karoq I did notice it was firmer/bumpier compared to my Fabia that might be due to larger 18" wheels? If I bought an SEL model could the wheels be swapped to 17" (or smaller)? Does it actually make much difference to the drive?
5. Can 'Lane Assist' and engine auto 'Stop/Start' be turned off permanently (or do they reset each time)?
6. Can both models (SE/SEL) run normal unleaded petrol (not just premium)? I think I read this somewhere but must be mistaken?
7. My plan is to use the official Skoda 'Used Cars' website as it offers a good selection. Is this considered expensive compared to other options?
8. What is the better factor to hunt for when buying a used Skoda (age vs mileage)?
9. Finally, is it worth trying to buy as many warranty years as possible? Or does it cost more than its worth?

 

Any answers to one or more questions above would be greatly appreciated. As well as any general advice I might have missed. Thanks in advance for any help, Nick

My karoq is a 1.6diesel dsg so can't comment on the petrol.

1. I'm on my 3rd dsg box in different cars and never had a problem. Love it

2.no comment

3.i can tell very little difference in the driving modes, I get best economy in normal and not using cruise control.

4 for improved comfort if it comes with Bridgestones, get rid of them and fit something else. I have two sets of wheels, both 18s one set has kormoran summer suv tyres, the other vredestien winters. Both much better than the Bridgestone ****e

5dont have lane assist, detest the stop start with the dog, turn it off every time I start the car

6no comment

7no comment

8no comment

9never bought an extended warranty on anything in my life. Yes I have had breakdowns but on the whole I have saves more money not buying them.

I have owned a couple of fabias in the past, really liked the mk1, not quite as much the mk2, had a golf, a seat Leon dsg, a yeti dsg and current karoq dsg. All diesels apart from the mk2 fabia which was a 1.2 petrol. The karoq is the best of the lot, but it's a hell of a close run thing with the yeti. I would wholeheartedly recommend one, but I'm unsure about the 1.5tsi. My daughter has a 1.5tsi Leon, I don't really like it as it needs revving to give its best. Her previous car was a Leon 1.6tdi, she gets far less mpg from the petrol she has now and is going back to the torque of a diesel next time

 

Edited 28 September, 20241 yr by daviemck2006

 couple of further comments re economy. I have a 2.0L TSI DSG Sportline it is 4x4, there is obviously a reduction in fuel consumption as a result, however I have been quite surprised at the consumption on long motorway and dual carriage way A roads, typically between 45 to 50 mpg travelling at what ever the permitted max is, this, to me is pretty good, the 1.5 TSI doesn't do much better. However on short journeys aroudn town or cross country roads its around 35 mpg.  I think ECO mode does save fuel. The DSG in my Karoq has coast mode, I have switched from using Cruise Control to using the Speed limiter - the effect is the same but its more flexible and it allows the DSG to Coast when lifting off for bends, down hill sections or slowing traffic, Cruise Control does not coast so uses fuel when it doesn't need to. |In coast mode the engine is still running at tickover so there is some fuel used.

Nick Green - I recently traded in a Karoq 4x4 auto, diesel and it had been a brilliant car, really regret my decision. Not once did it have any problems, (well aside from the filler flap when new) the gearbox was good maybe a bit slow pulling away, great roadholding on bendy roads, great motorway car, good top end acceleration. The boot was big enough for most things, easy to drop the seats. Good visibility, comfy seats, decent stereo. Low enough for my elderly mother to step into but high enough so's not to feel the bumps in the road very much. I really wish I hadn't decided to go for the new model, the old one was so good.

12 hours ago, daviemck2006 said:

My karoq is a 1.6diesel dsg so can't comment on the petrol.

1. I'm on my 3rd dsg box in different cars and never had a problem. Love it

2.no comment

3.i can tell very little difference in the driving modes, I get best economy in normal and not using cruise control.

4 for improved comfort if it comes with Bridgestones, get rid of them and fit something else. I have two sets of wheels, both 18s one set has kormoran summer suv tyres, the other vredestien winters. Both much better than the Bridgestone ****e

5dont have lane assist, detest the stop start with the dog, turn it off every time I start the car

6no comment

7no comment

8no comment

9never bought an extended warranty on anything in my life. Yes I have had breakdowns but on the whole I have saves more money not buying them.

I have owned a couple of fabias in the past, really liked the mk1, not quite as much the mk2, had a golf, a seat Leon dsg, a yeti dsg and current karoq dsg. All diesels apart from the mk2 fabia which was a 1.2 petrol. The karoq is the best of the lot, but it's a hell of a close run thing with the yeti. I would wholeheartedly recommend one, but I'm unsure about the 1.5tsi. My daughter has a 1.5tsi Leon, I don't really like it as it needs revving to give its best. Her previous car was a Leon 1.6tdi, she gets far less mpg from the petrol she has now and is going back to the torque of a diesel next time

 

Agree re: Bridgestones, have them on my new Karoq, so much road noise down to them, will be gone soon  Lane assist on new car fkn dangerous if I forget to cancel at the start of every journey and.. petrol to juicy on the new one, first petrol car I've had in decades and it takes nearly half a tank more than the derv on a regular 400 trip!

First of all, thanks so much to all of you for your detailed replies. I never expected such a response and greatly appreciate it 😀 Reading through each a number of times, I've made a few observations:

 

1. Make sure to check the A/C works on chosen car as well as no leaks in the foot well. (This was actually an issue on my Fabia that took quite a while to resolve).

2. It appears that more recent 1.5ltr DSG engines run well. Some prefer 2.0ltr for the wet clutch DSG but 2.0ltr does impact fuel economy? Would anyone recommend 1.0ltr? Would performance dip outweigh fuel economy? I have 1.2ltr Fabia atm and can't imagine Karoq would move with 1.0ltr (although technology has probs improved over last 20 years)!

3. If I read correctly, lane assist option won't be in Karoq 1-3 years old? Hooray if so! My friend has lane assist in his Mercedes and it frightens the life out of me when it kicks in.

4. New EVO2 engines seem recommended. But are they only for 2024 Karoq models onwards (or 2023)?

5. I imagine servicing costs will increase compared to my Fabia (once I stop going main dealer after warranty runs out)? Or do folk find Karoq still reasonable in that sense?

6. Overall, my sense is that, barring buying a lemon, the Karoq is a good, well reviewed car. Initially I wanted something a little smaller (as I'm coming from my Fabia) but when I sat in showroom Kamiq it just felt very cramped (even compared to my Fabia). And when I got in the Karoq I felt I could breath again. Do you quickly get used to the bigger size when parking? SEL with rear camera parking assist seems a good idea here.

 

Once again thanks for all help and, if I've missed a question out you think is important, please let me know. Much appreciated👍

Sorry, forgot to add:

 

7. Many folk seen to recommend changing Bridgestone tires. So, 18" are OK but Kormoran or Vredestien tires instead. When I buy my car, can I ask Skoda dealership to change or is it best to do independently? Roughly how much will that cost?

8. My Fabia is manual but my friends Mercedes is automatic that I like to drive. I know this is subjective but any views either way? DSG vs manual? (I'm leaning towards DSG).

 

Thanks again👍

1 hour ago, NickGreen said:

Sorry, forgot to add:

 

7. Many folk seen to recommend changing Bridgestone tires. So, 18" are OK but Kormoran or Vredestien tires instead. When I buy my car, can I ask Skoda dealership to change or is it best to do independently? Roughly how much will that cost?

8. My Fabia is manual but my friends Mercedes is automatic that I like to drive. I know this is subjective but any views either way? DSG vs manual? (I'm leaning towards DSG).

 

Thanks again👍

Had Michelins on mine, seemed good to me. Had car over 5 years never felt the need for any other brand.

The kormorans on my summer wheels are apparently one of michelins budget brands. I have had no problems with them on the karoq or on the previous yeti. The vredestien winters are on the standard wheels and I took off 3 approx 1/2 worn Bridgestones and one new budget to fit them. They were quite expensive at £165 a corner. Far ahead of the Bridgestones, but hit a pothole and ruined one at 2 weeks old. Very annoying.

do Lane  assist - as I say I've got it switched on but its never done anything so I've no idea if it does something alarming, perhaps theres a sensitivity setting affects what it detects, or perhaps I just drive on roads that have wide lanes! 

 

Forward assist hasn't been mentioned and that can and does go off - so far I think 3 times. Once on a motorway  traffic suddenly slowing down I was braking but it thought not faster enough (bit like having ones aged mother in the back saying 'slow down dear'! The other two times were approaching a 'T' junction, vehicles stationary in front waiting to turn right where thers a left turn lane which doesn't have to stop, I'm going left so am not slowing enough to stop if I was turning right, Front Assist cuts in and complains.

Regarding wheels and tyres search this sub-forum as there are a number of  useful threads with a lot of information regarding wheel sizes and tyre brands. When my 19" Bridgestones need replacing I will be fitting either Goodyear All Seasons or Michelin Cross Climates. I read on a post recently that the Sportline heated seats  might be more comfortable than the standard seat, which be wayhy I find the ride OK.

 

Regarding DSG gearbox - DSG vs Manual, would you use cruise control ? - tyhe DSG is brilliant because whatever speed you set it will pick the right gear, so for example your on an a road  Cruise set to 50 mph  DSG is in 7th, you come to a hill, with a headwind, DSG will change down to maintain 50 mph. Real life example I was towing 1,200kg car trailer with my TDI Touran DSG, on the M6 cruise set to 60 mph, on anyincline it would change down as required, down to 3rd for one short section and then it changes back up. With a manual you have to change gear on cruise.  Maneuvering for parking etc - no need to slip the clutch, all so much smoother.  I'm a fan of the wet clutch DSG gearbox, but its not for everyone. Go for as  long a test drive as you can in as many different engined  DSG cars as you can.  Even if you don;t intend to buy a diesel or a 2.0l petrol try and get a test drive in all the DSG Karoqs, so that if you choose a DSG you choose from a position of knowledge.  All 4x4 Karoqs use the wet clutch DQ382, 1.5 Petrol uses the DQ200 dry clutch. 1.0 TSI is no longer available with DSG, I wouldn't consider the 1,0 if you do a lot of long distance with a 4/5 passengers.

 

I have found dealer sales staff to be very reluctant to say which version of the DSG gearbox a particular model has - whether this is because they genuinely don't know OR its Skoda sales policy to just say 'its a DSG' (as though they are all the same - they arent), i don't know.

 

Anyway good luck with your search I'm sure you will find something suitable.

Edited 29 September, 20241 yr by thamestrader
grammer

They genuinely don’t know…..

Thamestrader - I have had a couple of shocks with lane assist, on first drive I was heading home down narrow twisty lanes and went over the white line (yes, my fault) and it pulled me back hard so, now I mostly turn it off. The second time, I drove out of services, indicated and as I crossed the white line to join lane one it pulled me back I think because I cancelled my indicator too soon maybe. Don't like it though. The Mother in Law :)) braking is a bit of a shocker as seems to have a mind of it's own. My old Karoq used to do the same.

7 hours ago, Saljia said:

Thamestrader - I have had a couple of shocks with lane assist, on first drive I was heading home down narrow twisty lanes and went over the white line (yes, my fault) and it pulled me back hard so, now I mostly turn it off. The second time, I drove out of services, indicated and as I crossed the white line to join lane one it pulled me back I think because I cancelled my indicator too soon maybe. Don't like it though. The Mother in Law :)) braking is a bit of a shocker as seems to have a mind of it's own. My old Karoq used to do the same.

 

Lane assist will never pull you back hard. I don't though like even the slight nudge it gives in circumstances when I safely cross white lines so turn mine off, along with stop/start.

4 hours ago, sussamb said:

 

Lane assist will never pull you back hard. I don't though like even the slight nudge it gives in circumstances when I safely cross white lines so turn mine off, along with stop/start.

Im sure you are right, but I did loan a Skoda Octavia whilst my Karoq was serviced last year. I remember fighting the steering to go in the direction I wanted to go - I was driving. Or I thought I was!

Put me off ever having it. 

Some more great feedback - thanks all. Couple more questions if OK:

 

1. How easy is it to turn off stop/start, lane assist and forward assist? Is it a single manual button press (hope so) or do you need to dive deep into menu on screen? You have to do this each time in my friend's Mercedes and it's so frustrating he has given up.

2. (Probably like many) I can suffer from lower back/sciatic pain, which is another reason to go for bigger/higher Karoq. I notice that SEL has option of electronic seat adjustment including adjustable lumbar support? Does the manually adjusted seat option also include adjustable lumbar support? How do folk find the Karoq driver seat overall?

 

Thanks again👍

Stop/start is a button switch off or on, I leave on don’t  have a problem with it.

 

Forward Assist and lane assist are configured on/off through infotainment screen and through steering wheel button and virtual cockpit display.

 

Sportline seats have lumber support and firm side supports done might find them a bit narrow though.

Yes, there is adjustable lumbar support on the basic manual seat.  On journeys, I tend to alter the lumbar adjustment at intervals along with backrest tilt, just to change my seating posture a little.  Let's face it, sitting down for long periods in a fixed position, whether in a car, at the office or at home, is bad for you.  Accordingly, I rarely drive over 1.5hrs without getting out to stretch my legs.

 

I think electric seats have greater adjustment range including maybe seat tilt.  I find the manual seat comfortable though, if slightly firm and don't get too many aches & pains when driving distances.  However I do need to add a seat cushion for my long legs, something that maybe the electric seat might better cater for.

That's good to know, thanks both thamestrader and croquemonsieur (great names)! Sounds like my back will be catered for whatever model I get. Thinking SEL atm.

 

Last question (honest) - how to folk find parking a bigger car like Karoq. It ticks all the boxes for me but, of course, my Fabia is easy to park as it feels quite small. When I actually compare the two together (carsized online) there actually isn't much difference in length (just 12 cm) or width (11cm) but I imagine it is a little harder to park. I know SEL comes with parking assist front and back as well as rear camera, so I imagine that will help. Is it just a case of getting used to it quite quickly?

 

Thanks 🙂

I'd like to think I'm quite competent at parking. I find the rear camera very useful, so much so that I'm not sure I would want to park a Karoq without it!

I find parking and driving generally, easy.  Maybe in my case, the seating raised by a special cushion helps, but there's something about the way the driving position and modest no fuss dashboard + short bonnet, make the car feel quite compact and to my mind easy to drive along on the road.  Some cars go for big impressive dashboards and long bonnets making the road ahead seem a long way away (I've sat in in a couple of Quashquais where I would level this criticism, ditto my old Saab 9-5 - Range Rover Interiors look might impressive from outside, but I doubt the driving position & general layout would suit me.  BMWs however generally seem to be quite well laid out to assist the driver negotiating the road).

 

The extra side windows at the Karoq rear, compared with the say the Golf, help when parking.  But also I wouldn't be without the rear camera which I had fitted by the dealer.

 

My previous Yeti was even better, particularly when reversing due to the vertical rear door and generally square bodywork, but the very rounded front and rear Karoq corners do help in parking in tight spaces.  I've driven a few Fabias, but not for long and generally felt the Karoq is easier to drive, but the Fabias have all been manuals (which aren't so good for parling compared with autos) and I much prefer my nice Karoq DSG + high seating position.