Skoda Karoq review

In entry-level form, the Skoda Karoq will set you back pretty much the same amount of money as the Kia Sportage to buy outright. That means that it can look expensive next to, say, a Nissan Qashqai, but if you compare equipment levels, it's very reasonably priced. 

Running costs, including insurance and servicing, are very much in line with the Seat Ateca, although predicted resale values suggest that the Karoq will actually lose you a little less money in depreciation over three years – although the Kia Sportage is predicted to hold on to its value even better. PCP car finance deals are usually very competitive thanks to generous deposit contributions from Skoda.

For a bit more kit, our favourite SE L trim comes with some good-to-have extras, including the very handy VarioFlex rear seats, keyless entry and start, drive mode select, plus all-round parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

With Sportline trim, you’re mainly paying for a sportier look, with its 18in wheels, panoramic roof and sports seats.

The Karoq finished in the top third of the family SUV class in the 2021 What Car? Reliability Survey. As a manufacturer, Skoda finished in 12th place out of 30 brands in the overall league table – just behind Kia in ninth, and above Seat, Peugeot and Nissan.