The Skoda Karoq is sensible, spacious and simply super.
It manages to be roomy and versatile without taking up much space on the road. The Karoq’s interior is logically laid out and includes a good mix of digital modernness and easy analogue controls. And its driving experience is solid and satisfying.
There’s very little to dislike about the Karoq. If you want one, here’s how to choose the best model for you.
Shop used Skoda Karoq cars for sale at Motorpoint
Skoda Karoq models
The Skoda Karoq has been on sale since 2017, but very little has changed since then – Skoda got the formula right the first time. It was facelifted in 2022 with subtle styling tweaks and more driver assistance tech.
All Karoqs have an SUV body style and five seats, and come with either petrol or diesel engines, and manual or automatic gearboxes.
Four-wheel drive is available on the most powerful engines, and this addition makes the Karoq a confident towcar with a maximum braked towing capacity of 2.1 tonnes for a diesel 4x4 version (1.9 for petrol 4x4 models).
There’s never been a hybrid or electric Karoq – although the Skoda Elroq is a Karoq-sized EV – and, unlike the bigger Kodiaq, the Karoq has never been offered in a sporty vRS trim level. The most powerful engine fitted to the Karoq is a 190hp 2.0-litre petrol, with a 0-62mph time of seven seconds.
High-spec Karoqs come with hugely versatile 'VarioFlex' rear seats, which slide backwards and forwards and can be removed completely.
Skoda Karoq trim levels
Over the Karoq’s lifespan, it’s been available in the following trim levels:
- SE – the cheapest Karoq comes with two-zone climate control, cruise control, smartphone mirroring, rear parking sensors and auto emergency braking
- SE Edition – the current entry point to the Karoq range is much better equipped than the older SE model, featuring extras like a reversing camera, LED headlights and heated front seats
- SE Drive – a value-focused model that has previously been the entry version. In terms of equipment, it offers everything you get on SE but not all of the features of SE Edition
- SE Technology – an older model with a few upgrades over SE, such as front parking sensors and tinted windows
- SE L – a luxurious trim level with suede upholstery, among other upgrades. This is the first Karoq trim level to feature the VarioFlex rear seats. Also called SE L Edition
- Sportline – a Karoq with a bit of visual bite, courtesy of big wheels, black exterior trim and a sporty-feeling interior. Also called Sport Line or Sportline Edition
- Edition – a high-end version with features such as a panoramic sunroof, a powered bootlid and leather seats with a powered driver’s seat
- Scout – a rare 4x4 version with underbody cladding and an off-road mode
Which Skoda Karoq model is the best?
Lower-spec Karoqs are great choices if you want a spacious family car on a tight budget, while high-spec Sportline versions add a sporty flavour to make the Karoq stand out.
Mid-range SE L models offer a great middle ground with lots more equipment than entry-level models but at a much cheaper price than range-topping versions.
Which Skoda Karoq engine is the best?
The Karoq’s engine range is pleasingly simple, with just a couple of petrols and a couple of diesels to pick from. Choose a diesel Karoq if you’re going to be doing a lot of long journeys or if you want the best towing capacity, while a petrol Karoq will be best otherwise.
A 1.0-litre engine with 116hp may not sound like it’s up to the job of powering something as big as the Karoq, but actually it’s a sweet engine with plenty of power and good fuel efficiency. Alternatively, the 150hp 1.5-litre petrol engine improves performance without sacrificing fuel economy.
For more on the Karoq, read our Skoda Karoq review
