The Czech brand had added a top spec model to its compact crossover range

As the Škoda brand’s reputation grows in New Zealand, so too does its line up with the small SUV, Kamiq, recently launched and value vehicle such as the Karoq Style now available for Kiwi buyers.

The Karoq range starts at $34,990 for the Ambition 1-litre petrol, before moving to the Ambition+ ($40,990) and the Style at $44,990, both with 1.5-litre petrol engines producing 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque.

For its price, the Karoq Style gains an electronic boot that self-closes, adaptive cruise control, front assist emergency braking and dual zone air conditioning. It also sits on 18in alloys.

The Karoq replaced the quirky Yeti in the Škoda line-up. Instead the company has moved away from the mysterious stylings of the Yeti, and now is more of a sibling in the VW Group.

It sits on the same platform as the VW Tiguan and SEAT Ateca but Škoda is always one to make it its own.

The Karoq, along with Tiguan and Ateca, sit in one of the fastest growing segments of the new car market, so Škoda makes its vehicle stand out with a combination of sensible space, good value and clean, modern design.

It also takes plenty of styling cues from the larger Škoda Kodiaq, which isn’t a bad thing.

Its suspension makes the Karoq stand out from rivals, because this is very much a car that’s been set up for comfort. But don’t mistake comfort for unruly, rather that even on standard suspension and 18in wheels it deals admirably on the gravel road out to Parihoa, Muriwai.

Compared with the Yeti that it replaces, the Karoq feels very settled, even if there is a bit of wind noise above 80km/h.

On the motorway, it hits the sporty drivability, and is ideal for long trips.

The Karoq’s cabin might not be particularly exciting to look at but it feels sturdy and all models get a slick 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard.

The Karoq has a big boot and space inside for four tall adults. The VarioFlex back seats can slide and recline individually, or be removed for a huge load bay.

The Karoq Style gets added points for the electric boot, which makes shopping ideal until Level 2 shopping where I have to pack my groceries in the car, not in the supermarket.

Sure, the Karoq isn’t a big stand out when it comes to exterior styling, but it suits buyers who are after a European car at a reasonable price, well specced and just right if you don't want to draw attention to yourself in the supermarket car park.