@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Skoda Karoq vs VW Golf Variant – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Skoda Karoq or VW Golf Variant?

Skoda Karoq

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

VW Golf Variant

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Dynamic Duo: Skoda Karoq vs VW Golf Variant

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, two models emerge as noteworthy contenders in their respective categories: the Skoda Karoq and the VW Golf Variant. Though they belong to different segments—SUV and wagon—they cater to similar needs for practicality, performance, and innovation. Join us as we put these two vehicles head-to-head to uncover what sets them apart and what makes them each an excellent choice for discerning drivers.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions: Versatility vs. Agility

The Skoda Karoq, an SUV, boasts a robust design with dimensions that measure approximately 4,390 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and a height ranging up to 1,624 mm. Its higher stance is paired with a trunk capacity of 521 liters, offering ample storage for family adventures.

In contrast, the VW Golf Variant, a classic wagon, presents a sleek and elongated profile at 4,631 mm in length, 1,789 mm in width, and a lower height of 1,487 mm. The Golf Variant also excels in practicality with a superior trunk capacity of 611 liters, making it exceptionally suitable for long road trips and daily commuting alike.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Engine and Performance: Power Meets Efficiency

Under the hood, the Karoq offers a range of engine options, including both petrol and diesel, with power outputs ranging from 115 HP to 190 HP. The SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as quick as 7 seconds, depending on the variant, and reaches a top speed of up to 221 km/h, ensuring a thrilling drive.

The Golf Variant provides an equally robust lineup, including mild-hybrid options with power outputs going up to a remarkable 333 HP. This wagon promises an exhilarating 0 to 100 km/h sprint in just 4.8 seconds with its top variants, appealing to those seeking both speed and efficiency.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Fuel Efficiency and CO2 Emissions: A Green Approach

When it comes to efficiency, the Karoq delivers commendable fuel consumption figures ranging from 4.9 to 7.6 L/100km. CO2 emissions vary between 129 and 174 g/km, offering both economy and an environmentally conscious approach.

The Golf Variant leads in fuel efficiency with consumption figures between 4.4 and 8.5 L/100km. Its CO2 emissions range from a low 115 g/km to 194 g/km, making it an attractive choice for the eco-aware driver.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Driving Dynamics and Comfort: Tackling Terrains

The Karoq’s capability extends to offering front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options. With a seating capacity for five and ample payload capacity, it is crafted for versatility both on urban roads and off-road paths.

The Golf Variant also offers front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, prioritizing driver engagement and passenger comfort. Its refined suspension and seating for five make it a go-to for seamless journeys across varied terrains.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Technology and Innovation: Modern Marvels

Technological innovations abound in both models. The Skoda Karoq is fitted with a dual-clutch automatic option, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. The interior is marked by intuitive infotainment systems, promoting connectivity and convenience.

The Golf Variant stakes its claim with similar advancements, including dual-clutch automatic transmissions and state-of-the-art infotainment systems. It underscores Volkswagen’s commitment to blending performance and technology seamlessly.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Match

Choosing between the Skoda Karoq and the VW Golf Variant ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. While the Karoq appeals with its SUV practicality and versatile performance, the Golf Variant impresses with its superior speed, fuel efficiency, and modern aesthetics. Both vehicles promise a rewarding drive, making them top contenders in their segments.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Golf Variant has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Skoda Karoq costs 29100 £. That’s a price difference of around 2944 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf Variant manages with 4.30 L and is therefore slightly more efficient than the Skoda Karoq with 4.90 L. The difference is about 0.60 L per 100 km.

Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Golf Variant has a significantly edge – offering 333 HP compared to 190 HP. That’s roughly 143 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Golf Variant is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.80 s, while the Skoda Karoq takes 7 s. That’s about 2.20 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf Variant performs a bit better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Skoda Karoq tops out at 221 km/h. The difference is around 29 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Golf Variant pulls somewhat stronger with 420 Nm compared to 360 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm difference.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf Variant is minimal lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1380 kg. The difference is around 14 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Golf Variant offers somewhat more room – 611 L compared to 521 L. That’s a difference of about 90 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf Variant performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1642 L, which is about 12 L more than the Skoda Karoq.

When it comes to payload, Skoda Karoq hardly perceptible takes the win – 549 kg compared to 547 kg. That’s a difference of about 2 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Golf Variant proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Golf Variant is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

Skoda Karoq
VW Golf Variant

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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from about £26,100
Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Golf Variant

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 333 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.3 - 8.2 L

Skoda Karoq

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

The Skoda Karoq is a smart, unfussy compact SUV that blends roomy practicality with a pleasantly composed driving character. It won’t turn heads at a car meet, but it will make daily life easier with clever storage, sensible ergonomics and a reassuringly grown-up ride.

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VW Golf Variant

The Golf Estate packs Volkswagen's familiar poise into a practical, grown-up estate that quietly makes everyday life easier without shouting for attention. It's clever, comfortable and roomy enough for weekend kit or family chaos, offering smart packaging and refined manners that make it a sensible and surprisingly stylish choice for buyers who need space but don't want a van.

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Skoda Karoq
VW Golf Variant
Karoq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
29100 - 41700 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 7.6 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
128 - 173 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
50 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1380 - 1655 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
521 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4384 - 4390 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1841 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1624 - 1629 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1630 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
456 - 549 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 190 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 - 11.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
192 - 221 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 140 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
Skoda
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Skoda Karoq?

The Skoda Karoq is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.

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