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Used test: Nissan Qashqai vs Seat Ateca vs Skoda Karoq verdict

These family SUVs all sell in big numbers, so there are plenty of excellent used examples to choose from. But should you go for a Qashqai, an Ateca of a Karoq?...

Nissan Qashqai vs Seat Ateca vs Skoda Karoq rears

Our verdict

Compared with its previous generation, the Nissan Qashqai retains a decent amount of comfort, while making big strides in interior quality and rear seat space. It's extremely well equipped, too, and it also handles well enough. 

As a result, the Qashqai beats the Seat Ateca and, considering the Ateca is a former Used Car of the Year, that says a lot. The Ateca is better to drive, sure, but you pay for its sportiness with a firm ride, plus it lags behind for refinement.

This leaves the Skoda Karoq: is it first or last? Well, it's the former, because it offers the best compromise of ride and handling, not to mention it’s lovely inside and it has the most room for the family. Its reliability record is confidence-inspiring as well. 

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1st  Skoda Karoq

Skoda Karoq 2021 front

For Best ride and handling balance; biggest boot; great visibility; best reliability score; best MPG
Against Lack of seating flexibility on SportLine trim

What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5

Read our full Skoda Karoq 2017-present review >>

Find a used Skoda Karoq for sale >>


2nd  Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai 2021 front

For Comfy ride; relatively quiet at speed; great driving position; very well equipped; smart interior
Against Weak performance at low revs; handling is satisfactory rather than great

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full Nissan Qashqai review >>

Find a used Nissan Qashqai for sale >>


3rd  Seat Ateca

Seat Ateca 2021 front

For Most enjoyable handling; relatively strong performance
Against Noisiest at speed; firmest ride

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full Seat Ateca 2016-present review >>

Find a used Seat Ateca for sale >>


Specifications: Nissan Qashqai 1.3 DIG-T 158 Tekna

Engine 4cyl, 1332cc, turbo, petrol
Power 156bhp at 5500rpm
Torque 192lb ft at 1800-4000rpm
0-60mph 9.8sec
Top speed 128mph
Test fuel economy 36.9mpg
Official fuel economy 44.1mpg


Specifications: Seat Ateca 1.5 TSI Evo 150 Xperience Lux

Engine 4cyl, 1498cc, turbo, petrol
Power 148bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Torque 184lb ft at 1500-3500rpm
0-60mph 8.9sec
Top speed 124mph
Test fuel economy 36.7mpg
Official fuel economy 42.2mpg


Specifications: Skoda Karoq 1.5 TSI 150 SportLine

Engine 4cyl, 1498cc, turbo, petrol
Power 148bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Torque 184lb ft at 1500-3500rpm
0-60mph 9.5sec
Top speed 129mph
Test fuel economy 38.6mpg
Official fuel economy 43.4mpg