Skoda Karoq review

Skoda Karoq Mk1 (2018 - current)

While the SEAT Ateca has slightly firm suspension, it's much better news with the Karoq though – it made light work of some of the worst roads we’ve ever encountered at the launch, soaking up all but the most serious potholes without drama or much in the way of noise. And yet it’s composed in bends, without excessive roll when changing direction.

Pick up the pace and it’s quiet too. Even when cruising at motorway speeds there is minimal noise from the engine (whichever you choose) or the tyres, with just a faint whistle of wind around the mirrors breaking the silence. It’s very impressive indeed – though it’s definitely at its best with the new 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine, tested here.

This is a four-cylinder with 150PS and it’s a great fit for the Karoq. It’s quiet, smooth and punchy, with enough performance for motorway driving and country roads, yet minimal noise and an easy nature around town. There’s also a 1.0-litre petrol with 115PS, a 1.6-litre diesel with 115PS and a 2.0-litre diesel with 150PS and all-wheel drive.

Whatever engine you opt for you’ll get a smooth, easy-shifting six-speed manual or standard, while a seven-speed DSG is optional. Again, this fits best with the 1.5-litre TSI petrol – but whatever it’s linked to it provides barely noticeable gear changes when on the move. Sadly, from a standing start it can be a bit slow to react – like all DSG transmissions.

Inside, the Skoda Karoq has space for five adults to sit in comfort. Rear leg room is generous and, if you go for SE-L trim, you’ll get three individual ‘Varioflex’ rear seats that can be slid back and forth as well as reclined, so you can pick between comfort or space. You can also remove the rear seats entirely – though tumbling them forward is easier and still provides masses of room.

Even with the rear seats in place and slid all the way to the rear there is a decent amount of space - with 521 litres beneath the load cover which is plenty for family life. Shopping bags and a push chair will fit without trouble, plus the load deck is flat and wide, so easy to get bulky, awkward items in and out of without them snagging. 

Up front, the layout is conservative but tremendously easy-to-use and impossible to fault. Skip the basic SE trim and you’ll get a wide, responsive eight-inch touchscreen system with navigation and Smartlink+, for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. It's easy to use, responsive and looks good.

How much is a Skoda Karoq Mk1?

Pricing is similar to the Nissan Qashqai and SEAT Ateca when you consider the equipment levels - but the Skoda Karoq feels like a better all-round package than both. On the road it's quiet and comfortable, plus it's family-friendly. In fact, it's everything a family SUV should be - and arguably the best car in a very competitive class. 

What's the best Skoda Karoq Mk1 to buy?

Even if you opt for the base SE model you'll get alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control and auto emergency brakes as standard - but SE-L is really the model to go for. It features keyless entry, heated front seats, Alcantara upholstery and a reversing camera. There's also an Edition trim level with all the bells and whistles.