Overview

Should you buy one?

Yes – this is a solid, dependable and comfortable family car that does a good job of almost everything. It’s practical and sensible but also charming, and slots nicely into Skoda’s family of SUVs between the smaller Kamiq and larger Kodiaq. The fact remains so competitive so close to the end of its life is deeply impressive and a sure sign that Skoda really understands its customers.

The 150hp 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol is our pick of the range, as it does the best job of blending efficiency and performance. The Karoq does hamper itself slightly by not offering buyers any hybrid technology, but that’s a forgivable offence when this petrol engine can return more than 40mph in the real world.

If you’re starving for more performance, the 190hp 4x4 Karoq Sportline Edition goes some way to giving you that fix, especially if you stick its adaptive dampers and steering in Skoda’s tauter Sport driving mode. But, for us, the Karoq’s comfort makes the most sense, so we wouldn’t jeopardise it.

What is it?

The Skoda Karoq is a key competitor in the popular mid-size SUV market, and successor to the much-loved Yeti. The Karoq is a conventional design, based on the previous-generation Volkswagen Tiguan and is packed a plethora of features that help Skoda products stand out from the family car crowd.

But for now, this one still has loads to recommend it if you’re after a five-seater family car that offers good value and plenty of comfort. Lightly facelifted in 2022, it still looks sharp inside and out, despite how it’s getting on in years. It also features the firm’s most efficient engines for excellent fuel economy and emissions, and competitive performance.

Because it sits in one of the most hotly contested new car classes, the Karoq faces talented rivals from almost every other car manufacturer. Our favourite apart from the Skoda is the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric, which is packed with as many family-friendly features but is less convenient to own if you do lots of long journeys. It’s also difficult to discount the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, which offer cast-iron warranties, hybrid powertrains and futuristic styling – none of which the Karoq has.

Britain, meanwhile, seems to have cast its vote for the Nissan Qashqai, which is a perennial bestseller and a dependable choice. But we reckon the Skoda’s a better overall package than any of these rivals. To arrive at this judgement, we’ve driven literally dozens Karoqs – including a six-month long-term test car – and loved them all. That’s no easy feat. You can find out more about how we construct our opinions by reading our how we test cars explainer page.

Broadly speaking, the Karoq represents an excellent alternative to almost everything the others can throw at it. Although, with engine choice limited to conventional petrol and diesel motors, Skoda is looking a little out of touch with modern times – currently not even offering mild hybrid capability.

However, a choice of manual and automatic transmissions, plus four-wheel drive on Karoq 4x4 models, makes it a well-rounded car for families with active hobbies. And, with as much as 190hp, it doesn’t struggle for performance. There are three trim levels, called SE Edition, SE L Edition and Sportline Edition.

As part of the Karoq’s facelift, Skoda added the option of an Eco pack that features seat coverings partially made from recycled plastic bottles. The LED headlights are also slimmer than before, but they work even more effectively. Other tweaks, such as the optimised wheel covers and extended rear spoiler, improve the aerodynamics, helping the car achieve better mpg.

Over the next few pages, we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Skoda Karoq and rating them in our expert verdict. Along the way, we’ll consider the car’s driving experience, the quality and comfort of its interior, the level of practicality available and how much it’ll cost you to keep it on the road.