Skoda has revealed its new Karoq SUV, which replaces the Yeti to provide a direct rival for models such as the Nissan Qashqai and SEAT Ateca.

Camouflaged new Karoq SUV.

Due on sale from the second half of the year, the new compact SUV offers more conventional styling than the quirky Yeti and sits under the newly launched Kodiaq large SUV.

As with its larger sibling, the Karoq also uses a naming and spelling convention derived from the language of Alaska’s indigenous people – this system will be deployed for future SUV models too.

Narrower and lower than the Yeti but longer in length and wheelbase, the Karoq also offers increased luggage capacity ranging from 521 litres to 1,630 (Yeti: 416-1760), which can also be extended up to 1,810 litres with the removal of the seats. As with the Yeti, the Karoq also offers the rear-seat VarioFlex system that enable the middle seat to be folded away. It also offers a virtual pedal for hands-free opening.

Although specific market details have not been announced, the engine line-up will cover five units, of which four are new. Petrol engines cover a 115hp 1.0 TSI and a 150hp 1.5 TSI, the latter with cylinder deactivation. Diesels comprise a 115hp 1.6 TDI plus 150hp and 190hp 2.0 TDI units. All engines are offered with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG apart from the higher-powered diesel which comes as standard with all-wheel drive and seven-speed DSG.

Equipment details include full LED headlights and digital instrument panel. Connectivity features echo the line-up seen on the facelifted Octavia and include a range of infotainment systems, one with an optional LTE module, and the latest Connect technology comprising Infotainment Online services along with real-time navigation details and the Care Connect package, which provides remote access as well as assistance.

Driver assistance systems include parking assistant, Lane Assist, traffic-jam assistant, Blind Spot Detect, Front Assist with predictive pedestrian protection and Emergency Assistant and trailer assistant – the Skoda Karoq can tow trailers of up to two tonnes.