Visual, tech tune-up anticipated for this medium model

SHARING of teaser renderings from Skoda seem to confirm thought that mid-life alterations coming for its medium Karoq sports utility will be mild.

The updated car will be properly revealed at the end of this month, but in the meantime Volkswagen’s Czech marque has delivered two sketches.

Kiwis keen on what they see could see the update in the second quarter of next year, according to latest indications from the factory.

Karoq’s the second Skoda SUV to be freshened; an update for the larger Kodiaq is imminent here.

This week’s images appear to confirm that the changes to the Karoq, which goes up against a variety of products including the Toyota RAV4 and the Mazda CX-5, are not substantial.

The images show a revised front end. The grille seems to have increased in width and now features double slats as well as a new hexagonal design, with a wide air intake underneath. The headlights are more slender than in the current version and extend all the way to the grille. Redesigned daytime running lights comprise two separate elements each. Underneath is a second lighting unit for the fog lights or, in the top variant, a separate LED module. Skoda insiders say this headlight configuration enables a characteristic four-eyed driving lights look after dark.

The second sketch previews the redesigned rear. In addition to a longer rear spoiler and a visually updated rear apron with a black diffuser, the tail lights are reconfigured. Like the headlights, they have been slimmed down and emphasise the vehicle’s width. The characteristic C-shaped graphic is retained.

The addition of Skoda's latest-generation infotainment software is also expected.

The current choice of powertrains is set to continue.