The paint has barely dried on the all-new Skoda Karoq SUV, but already rumours are emerging over a high-horsepower vRS model. Reports suggest that the hot SUV could go up against the SEAT Ateca Cupra, making for a bit of VW Group sibling rivalry.

According to Autocar, company CEO Bernhard Maier said that "there is obviously a demand" for an SUV with a vRS badge, and that the new Karoq has "all the ingredients which make the Skoda a vRS." If the Karoq vRS did come to market, it would likely use the same 300hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the Ateca Cupra. For now, the Skoda CEO admits the company hasn’t made a final decision on the project.

Gallery: 2018 Skoda Karoq


Until then, buyers will have to make do with the standard Karoq. The base SUV comes with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine producing 115hp, a 1.5-litre TSI Evo engine that produces 150hp – that’s the same engine you’ll find in the latest VW Golf –  as well as 1.6- and 2.0-litre TDI units. No horsepower figures have been given for the diesels just yet.

Depending on which engine you choose, the powertrain is paired to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG. Pricier versions will be available with all-wheel drive, of course, while the lower trim models will come standard with front-wheel drive. The new Karoq will go on sale the second half of 2017, and though Skoda has yet to reveal all the details, it's expected to slightly undercut the SEAT Ateca and VW Tiguan in terms of price, at around £17,000 or so.

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Source: Autocar