The new Skoda Karoq 2027 comes with PHEV version - price estimates and availability for Romania
Nine years after its market debut and almost five years after the last major facelift, the Skoda Karoq is officially preparing for a new generation. Confirmed directly by Klaus Zellmer, the Czech brand's chief executive officer (CEO), the new version of the compact SUV will mark a crucial step in the brand's transition to electrification.
A new life for a bestseller on the MQB platform
The model, originally launched in 2017, has been a sales pillar for the Mladá Boleslav-based manufacturer. Although Skoda is carrying out an aggressive electric offensive – launching 100% electric models such as the Elroq, Epiq or Peaq – the brand’s management acknowledges that a full transition requires time and affordable options with everyday engines.
In an interview with the British publication Autocar, Klaus Zellmer dispelled speculation about the definitive replacement of the Karoq with a purely electric model, confirming that the SUV will receive a new generation equipped with internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains.
The new model will continue to use the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, in a modernized version (MQB Evo). This technical choice allows for a competitive production cost to be maintained while providing the necessary architecture for the latest assistance systems, infotainment technologies and electrified drivetrains.
Premiere under the hood: Over 100 kilometers in pure electric mode
The most important strategic change for the future Karoq is the introduction, for the first time ever for this model, of a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) version. Until now, the Karoq was offered exclusively with petrol and diesel engines, alongside mild-hybrid variants.
The propulsion system of the future Karoq PHEV will take over the architecture seen on its bigger brother, the Kodiaq, as well as the new generation Superb:
- Hybrid powertrain: A 1.5-liter TSI gasoline engine coupled with an electric motor and a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission.
- Autonomy: The extended capacity battery will allow a purely electric range of over 100 km (according to the WLTP standard).
- Charging: The system will support AC charging (up to 11 kW), but also fast charging at DC stations (up to 50 kW), a rare feature in the compact SUV segment that allows recharging from 10% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes.
According to Klaus Zellmer, plug-in hybrids represent the “ideal transition technology” for customers who want the emission-free daily commute but without the anxiety of long-distance range.
Romanian Market: Availability and Price Estimates
Launch calendar. The world premiere and official presentation of the new generation are expected towards the end of 2026 or the beginning of 2027, with the first deliveries in Romania to take place during 2027.
Price comparison: Current model vs. New generation
Currently, on the Romanian market, the Skoda Karoq range has the following price points:
- Skoda Karoq (current) – Selection equipment (1.5 TSI 150 HP): from ~30,755 – 30,813 EUR (VAT included).
- Skoda Karoq (current) – Sportline / 4x4 equipment: reaches 38,000 – 40,250 EUR.
Given the technological upgrades, the completely redesigned interior (expected to adopt the Smart Dials system and 13-inch standalone screens) and the strict Euro 7 safety requirements, the prices of the new generation will undergo an adjustment:
| Model Version | Current Generation (RO Price) | New Generation (RO Price Estimate) |
| Base (Mild-Hybrid / 1.5 TSI) | ~30,800 EUR | 32,500 – 34,000 EUR |
| Mid-trims / 4x4 Diesel | ~36,000 – 38,000 EUR | 38,000 – 41,000 EUR |
| Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV, >100 km) | Not available in current lineup | 39,500 – 43,000 EUR (before eco-bonus) |
The PHEV version will have a higher starting price due to the large battery pack, but the final purchase cost for customers in Romania will be amortized through the Rabla Plus program (eco-bonuses for plug-in hybrid vehicles) and through substantial fuel savings in urban driving.