The European styled but Japanese engineered Peugeot 4008 marks the start of a new attack by the French manufacturer as it seeks to expand its marketshare in Australia. From the outside it’s unfathomable to think the Peugeot 4008 has anything to do with its relatively over-styled brother, the Mitsubishi ASX, but underneath the pretty French styling remains a Japanese heart and soul...
Peugeot has been at the forefront of diesel cars in Australia and the company has championed diesel on the famous Le Mans circuit with some success. Yet there is no diesel on offer here. Instead, it’s the same two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine from the ASX. The 110kW of power pulls the 1.4-tonnne vehicle to 100km/h in just under 10 seconds, which is ok but hardly sizzling. The resemblance to the stunning Evoque is uncanny, particularly in the bold front end. However, the roof line doesn’t dip as far toward coupe-like styling as the Evoque and the result is that the rear compartment is not as cramped or claustrophobic. All models come standard with a rear camera and seven airbags. Strangely there is a full-size spare wheel under the boot floor but it is only rated up to 80km/h. It takes up cargo space, yet doesn’t really provide much peace of mind if you venture out bush to test its AWD capabilities. Driver and passenger accommodation is comfortable with easy access and plenty of leg and headroom. However, it will still only fit two teens or adults comfortably in the rear. Extra sound deadening material provides a quiet cabin. Surprisingly there seems to be more luggage space than the ASX.
Skoda’s smallest SUV is a comfortable, class-leading family car.
PROS Very comfortable Seriously practical Generous standard kit Finance offers are very competitive
CONS Not as sharp to drive as some rivals 1.0-litre petrol engine struggles on motorways Lack of super-low-emissions engine Looks very similar to larger Kodiaq
The Karoq is an accomplished crossover that will slot effortlessly into family life. It’s practical, comfortable, and packed with clever touches inside and out.
Pros Roomy interior Generously equipped Cheaper than a Tiguan
Cons Not as engaging to drive as rivals DSG gearbox isn't the best Less characterful than its predecessor, the Yeti
The Skoda Karoq is a spacious family car with a big boot. It’s easy to drive and comfortable – so long as you avoid the big wheels – but Edition models are expensive
Pros Very practical Solid build quality Comfortable with smaller wheels
Cons Big wheels amplify bumps The 115hp petrol’s underpowered Top-of-the-range model is expensive
