Skoda Karoq vs LDV D90
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs 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 Skoda Karoq starts from $40,990 before on-road costs, while the LDV D90 opens at $39,990. That makes the LDV D90 the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
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 $45,089 and $43,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Skoda Karoq by roughly $4,135 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Skoda Karoq and LDV D90 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Skoda Karoq packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 2 in the LDV D90.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Skoda Karoq and 6 in the LDV D90.
Feature Showdown
The Skoda Karoq features a 9.2-inch touchscreen, while the LDV D90 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Drivetrain
The Skoda Karoq uses a Petrol producing 110kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.6 seconds.
The LDV D90 responds with a Petrol Turbo making 184kW and 410Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The LDV D90 has the clear power advantage at 184kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the Skoda Karoq is 1.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Skoda Karoq measures 4,382mm long on a 2,638mm wheelbase, 664mm shorter than the LDV D90 at 5,046mm (2,950mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the LDV D90 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 521L in the Skoda Karoq and 343L in the LDV D90, giving the Skoda Karoq a 178L advantage. The LDV D90 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the LDV D90 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 12.0m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m 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 $1,767/year for the Skoda Karoq and $2,594/year for the LDV D90. That is a $827 annual difference in favour of the Skoda Karoq.
Estimated annual total: $1,767 (Skoda Karoq) vs $2,594 (LDV D90). The Skoda Karoq saves you roughly $827 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Skoda Karoq) vs 7 years / 200,000km (LDV D90). The LDV D90 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Skoda Karoq if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the LDV D90 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The LDV D90 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Skoda Karoq will save you roughly $827 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Skoda Karoq has a clear edge. The LDV D90 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
