The future of the Skoda Karoq is uncertain, but a potential second generation is on the horizon. The Czech firm's marketing boss, Martin Jahn, suggests that a new Karoq would make sense, especially if the EU weakens its CO2 emissions regulations, which currently outlaw the sale of new ICE vehicles from 2035. This could extend the lifespan of the current model, which has already achieved over 100,000 UK sales since its launch in 2017. However, sales have dropped substantially, placing it sixth in Skoda's sales charts, raising questions about its age and future prospects. Jahn emphasizes that the company will wait as long as possible to make a decision, suggesting that the current Karoq might receive another update before a new model is developed. Any future Karoq will likely use an updated version of the MQB platform, which is employed across the Volkswagen Group stable, including on the larger Kodiaq. This could mean the adoption of the group's latest full-hybrid powertrain, which is set to debut in the new-generation Volkswagen T-Roc in the coming months. Skoda's technical boss, Johannes Neft, suggests that the Octavia will gain both full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, while smaller models like the Fabia and Kamiq could also adopt hybrid powertrains, indicating that the Karoq small SUV will follow suit. Jahn remains optimistic about the MQB platform, stating that it is still fantastic and that no competitor is bringing anything better to the ICE world. He adds that the popularity of combustion-engine cars will determine their future investments, but they will remain available as long as customers want them.
