Mazda MX-5 vs Skoda Karoq
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mazda MX-5 starts from $41,520 before on-road costs, while the Skoda Karoq opens at $40,990. That makes the Skoda Karoq the more affordable entry point by $530.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $45,672 and $45,089 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda MX-5 features a 8.8-inch touchscreen, while the Skoda Karoq gets a 8-inch display and 10.3-inch instruments.
The Skoda Karoq counters with Apple CarPlay that the Mazda MX-5 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda MX-5 lines up producing 97kW and 152Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed manual to a RWD layout.
The Skoda Karoq responds with a Petrol making 110kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The Skoda Karoq has the clear power advantage at 110kW vs 97kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda MX-5 measures 3,915mm long on a 2,310mm wheelbase, 467mm shorter than the Skoda Karoq at 4,382mm (2,638mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Skoda Karoq generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 130L in the Mazda MX-5 and 521L in the Skoda Karoq, giving the Skoda Karoq a 391L advantage. The Skoda Karoq seats 5 vs 2.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.4m to 11.0m
Based on 9.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,938/year for the Mazda MX-5 and $1,767/year for the Skoda Karoq. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Skoda Karoq.
Estimated annual total: $1,938 (Mazda MX-5) vs $1,767 (Skoda Karoq). The Skoda Karoq saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda MX-5) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Skoda Karoq). The Skoda Karoq has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda MX-5 if: You or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Skoda Karoq if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Skoda Karoq takes 5 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Skoda Karoq will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Skoda Karoq has a clear edge. The Skoda Karoq adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda MX-5 and Skoda Karoq?
The Skoda Karoq is the cheapest at $40,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mazda MX-5 by $530.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Skoda Karoq uses the least fuel at 6.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Skoda Karoq all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Skoda Karoq has the largest boot at 521L.
Which can tow the most?
The Skoda Karoq has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Skoda Karoq has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Skoda Karoq makes the most power at 110kW.
Get ahead of your next car
Join free for new-car launches, news, reviews and buying guides. The independent take on what's new in Australia and what's actually worth buying, no dealer spin. Plus early access and founding-member pricing on the upcoming CarSorted Pro Report. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
By subscribing, you agree to receive marketing emails. You can unsubscribe at any time. View our Privacy Policy.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
