Either OR - Skoda: Karoq against Octavia Combi

Do you remember the time when you were asked by S koda as a low budget brand? When the Czechs still built cars for a tight budget? Preserve your memories because those days are over. Admittedly, the quality has also improved significantly, because now you can no longer sink a complete set of colored pencils into oversized gaps. The overriding question here is whether the material can also convince in everyday life in view of its price level. In every situation. We'll clarify what you get for your money here and now (and in particular in the video below).

The format

Skoda /ams

The editors Patrick Lang and Thomas deliver in the format either OR We always gray the purchase advice for two models from the same manufacturer to find out which car is the better for you.

Let's explain quickly first what to expect here. In our “Either OR” format, the two editors Patrick Lang and Thomas Grau always compare two vehicles from the same manufacturer. We do not collect any measurement data or test according to the classic auto motor und sport scheme. This is about buying advice and finding out which of the two models is right for you. We take a look at the configurator, check the interior, the exterior and the trunk. In addition, there are of course impressions from driving in terms of clarity, comfort, sportiness, assistance systems and so on. Depending on which criteria apply to the respective vehicles.

37,800 euros is a pretty steep price for a compact car, even if it comes along as a station wagon. That's how expensive the Octavia test car we drive is. Did you just choke on your coffee? Then put the cup away, because Skoda wants to have 40,050 euros in our configuration for the smallest SUV. Both cars are powered by the 1.5 TSI with 150 hp. The Karoq touches the highest equipment line ' Style ”over. But there is also plenty of standard equipment - from the 18-inch model to the start-stop system. There are also DSG and special equipment worth 10,000 euros.

City forester and pseudo-athlete

The Octavia Combi starts with the same basic requirements: style equipment and 150- HP petrol engine. However, it is switched here by hand through six steps. From the outside, it is a bit sporty with its black rims (Trius, 430 euros) and the red paint (Velvet Red Premium Metallic, 950 euros). Accordingly, we do without the somewhat conservative beige for the interior and stick with the standard black with a gray headliner. So that we can achieve the proud test car price, the large business package with Navi Columbus, the light and design package and a few other extras come on board.

While the Octavia Combi can withstand more than the Karoq, the city forester scores with a more airy feeling of space for all occupants. Why City-Förster? Well, because his hunting ground will probably remain the asphalt. Only the swaying in the curves reminds you that you are sitting in an SUV. Otherwise the Karoq drives like a normal car and exudes little desire for excursions into the thicket. The engine lets the driver understand, especially acoustically, under load that he is not in the mood for sport. No sport mode can hide it.

Does the Octavia do something different despite the many similarities? Yes, after the first few meters you can feel that everything feels a bit tighter. Everything arrives a nuance more direct and binding with the driver. The fact that he wobbles and nods less is explained by the shape of the body and the lower center of gravity. The driver sits almost 12 centimeters lower. That sounds sporty, but it is only in comparison to the Karoq. Otherwise, the Octavia is more of the buddy type. A practical companion in everyday life. You can find out who wins the race in detail in the video.