For years, Skoda was the sensible, budget-friendly choice – the automotive equivalent of a supermarket own-brand product that did the job just fine but lacked a certain sparkle. Not anymore. Today, Skoda is a powerhouse, producing cars that regularly top their class, blending Volkswagen Group quality with a unique focus on practicality and value for money. The brand’s "Simply Clever" philosophy isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s baked into every model, from hidden umbrellas to cavernous boots.
Whether you're looking for a compact supermini, a versatile family SUV, or a cavernous estate car that can swallow almost anything you throw at it, there’s a Skoda to fit the bill. With a line-up that’s stronger than ever, choosing the right one can be tricky. This guide is here to help, cutting through the noise to highlight the very best new and used Skodas you can buy today, from the hugely popular Octavia to the award-winning Enyaq electric SUV.
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
The Best Skoda Cars and SUVs for 2026
- 2026 Skoda Octavia
- 2026 Skoda Karoq
- 2026 Skoda Kamiq
- 2026 Skoda Superb
- 2026 Skoda Fabia
- 2026 Skoda Enyaq
- 2026 Skoda Kodiaq
- 2026 Skoda Scala
- 2009-2017 Skoda Yeti
- 2026 Skoda Elroq
1. 2026 Skoda Octavia
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Larger than its rivals – and cheaper to boot | There are more exciting family cars out there |
| Comfortable and refined driving experience | Not quite the bargain Skodas used to be |
| Thoughtfully designed and well-built interior | No fully electric version |
The Skoda Octavia is arguably the car that best represents the brand's core values: offering more car for less money. It’s no surprise that despite the rise of SUVs, the Octavia remains Skoda's best-selling model. Available as a spacious hatchback or an even more practical estate, it competes with family car favourites like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus but provides a level of interior space that they simply can't match, making it a brilliant choice for buyers who prioritise practicality and value.
Practicality is where the Octavia truly excels. Its size advantage translates into class-leading passenger space, with generous legroom in the back that even tall adults will appreciate. The boot is simply enormous; the hatchback offers a huge 600 litres of space, which is already about 200 litres more than most rivals. For maximum load-lugging ability, the estate version is the undisputed champion, boasting a cavernous 640-litre boot that makes it one of the most practical family cars on the market.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you need your family car to be strong in every single area, then the Skoda Octavia is probably the car for you. It's maybe not the sexiest or most exciting choice in its class, but easily one of the most well-rounded." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Skoda Octavia review
2. 2026 Skoda Karoq
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very roomy and practical | Some issues with 1.5 petrol engine |
| Comfortable on the road | Slightly anonymous styling |
| Plenty of standard equipment | Some rivals are nicer to drive |
As you’d expect from a Skoda, practicality is where the Karoq truly shines. It offers more interior space than most rivals, with excellent headroom and legroom for passengers in the front and back. The boot is also generous, starting at 521 litres, which is more than you’ll find in a Nissan Qashqai. For ultimate family flexibility, look for models with the optional Varioflex seating that increases space to 588 litres. This system features three individual rear seats that can slide, fold, or be removed completely, transforming the Karoq into a van-like space with a massive 1,810 litres of capacity.
While it’s not as sporty to drive as a Ford Kuga, the Karoq feels composed and predictable. The engine range is sensible and efficient, with the 114bhp 1.0-litre petrol being a solid entry-point. However, we’d recommend the 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol for a better balance of performance and economy, especially when the car is loaded with family and luggage. For high-mileage drivers, the 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel remains a strong and frugal choice.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Karoq may not be the most exciting car to look at, but it's a great car to live with." - David Motton, contributor
Read our full Skoda Karoq review
3. 2026 Skoda Kamiq
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very roomy for a small SUV | Not as much fun as a Ford Puma |
| Good value for money | There's no fuel-sipping hybrid model |
| Comfortable to travel in and appealing to drive | Lacks the sliding rear seats of some rivals |
The Kamiq is a masterclass in Skoda’s ‘more car for your money’ philosophy, packing an impressive amount of space into a compact crossover footprint. It offers more interior room than most rivals, with adults able to sit comfortably in the back seats, making it a surprisingly capable family car. The boot is also generous, offering 400 litres of space for luggage and shopping. Inside, the cabin is finished to a high standard, feeling more premium than many alternatives, and the driving position is comfortable for long journeys, even if it is set lower than in some other SUVs.
Skoda offers a simple but effective range of engines for the Kamiq. The petrols are the most popular choice, and while the entry-level 94bhp 1.0-litre TSI is adequate, the 114bhp version of the same engine is the sweet spot, providing willing performance and a characterful note. For those wanting a bit more urgency, a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol is also available. On the road, the Kamiq is comfortable and easy to drive, smoothing over bumpy roads with ease. While it’s not as fun to drive as a Ford Puma, its neat handling and refined nature make it a relaxing and appealing choice for everyday use.
The CarGurus Verdict: "You'll have more fun behind the steering wheel of the Ford Puma, but otherwise, there's nothing much to stand between the Skoda Kamiq and the top of the small SUV class. It really is that good." - David Motton, contributor
Read our full Skoda Kamiq review
4. 2026 Skoda Superb
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Outstanding interior space and practicality | Interior design and quality don’t match premium rivals |
| Well-equipped across all trims | A BMW 5 Series is more enjoyable to drive |
| Comfortable ride and very refined | Reduced boot space in the plug-in hybrid |
The Skoda Superb has long been the benchmark for anyone needing maximum space and practicality without the expense of a premium badge. This latest version continues that tradition, offering a truly cavernous boot. The hatchback model boasts an impressive 645 litres of space, but it’s the estate that’s the real star for this list, with a vast 690-litre boot that can swallow family luggage, buggies, and even the largest of dogs with ease. It’s a level of practicality that few rivals can match, delivering more space than a Mercedes E-Class for less money than a C-Class. It's worth noting, however, that the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model's battery reduces boot capacity to a still-very-usable 510 litres.
Beyond its huge boot, the Superb excels as a long-distance cruiser. The ride quality is fantastic, smoothing out rough roads and making motorway journeys feel effortless. The entry-level 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine with 148bhp is smooth, quiet, and efficient, capable of returning around 50mpg. Inside, all models are generously equipped with a large 13.1-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, and Skoda’s clever ‘Smart Dials’ for the climate controls. It all adds up to a car that is not only immensely practical but also incredibly easy to live with.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It offers more space than premium-badged rivals at a significantly lower price, and its boot beats most, if not all, other estate cars for load-carrying ability." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Skoda Superb review
5. 2026 Skoda Fabia
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very roomy interior | Some weedy engine choices |
| Comfortable and easy to drive | So-so warranty offering |
| Good value for money | Monte Carlo feels no more exciting than any other Fabia |
The Skoda Fabia continues the brand’s tradition of offering more car for the money. It’s one of the most practical superminis you can buy, with exceptionally generous legroom and a boot that, at 380 litres, is as big as you’ll find in cars from the class above, like the Volkswagen Golf. This makes it a brilliant choice for small families who need maximum space but want to keep purchase and running costs low. The cabin is also a match for anything in the class for quality, with smart finishes and a robust feel.
The Fabia does a great job of soaking up bumps and remains quiet and relaxed on the motorway. The engine range consists of efficient 1.0-litre turbocharged petrols that provide a decent balance of performance and economy, making them perfectly adequate for most drivers. For those wanting a bit more power, there’s a peppier 148bhp 1.5-litre engine, and the sporty ‘130’ special edition pumps this unit up to 175bhp. Whichever model you choose, the Fabia represents fantastic value, combining space, comfort, and quality in a way few rivals can.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It's one of the roomiest, most practical cars of its type, with a boot big enough to shame many cars from the class above, making it a good budget option for growing families." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Skoda Fabia review
6. 2026 Skoda Enyaq
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong value compared with rival electric SUVs | Pre-2025 cars have less generous standard equipment |
| Excellent passenger space and a large boot | Touchscreen can be slow to respond on earlier models |
| Comfortable ride and well-judged handling | Sporty vRS version prioritises pace over enjoyment |
As you’d expect from Skoda's flagship electric SUV, the Enyaq excels in practicality. Its huge 585-litre boot is more than capable of handling family life, easily swallowing buggies and luggage, while useful underfloor storage keeps charging cables tidy. Passenger space is another highlight, with limo-like legroom in the back and a completely flat floor, making the middle seat genuinely usable for adults. The airy, well-thought-out cabin feels calm and classy, reinforcing the Enyaq’s credentials as one of the best family-focused Skodas you can buy.
The Enyaq delivers a driving experience that is perfectly aligned with Skoda’s sensible brand values. It’s an easy and reassuringly refined car to drive, with a light steering feel that makes town driving effortless and a quiet cabin that ensures long motorway journeys are relaxing. Ride comfort is a particular strength, with the suspension doing a brilliant job of soaking up rough British roads. Buyers can choose between the Enyaq 60 with 201bhp or the more powerful Enyaq 85 with 282bhp, boasting maximum ranges of 269 and 359 miles respectively, but both versions feel smooth and progressive, suiting the car’s relaxed character perfectly.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Skoda Enyaq is a fantastic family SUV that stands comparison with anything else of a similar size, regardless of power source. It’s spacious, comfortable, quiet, feels classy and is a well-judged drive." - Matt Rigby, contributor
Read our full Skoda Enyaq review
7. 2026 Skoda Kodiaq
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 23.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional interior space and practicality | Interior quality feels less premium than the previous model |
| Available in petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid configurations | Ride comfort is compromised at low speeds, especially on larger wheels |
| Competitive pricing for a seven-seater SUV |
The Skoda Kodiaq is a masterclass in practicality, a core tenet of the Skoda brand. Boot space is simply vast, with five-seat petrol and diesel models offering a cavernous 910 litres. Even the plug-in hybrid model provides an impressive 745 litres. For those needing maximum flexibility, the seven-seat version is the one to have; with the third row folded, it still boasts 845 litres of space. The middle row of seats slides and reclines, and rear passengers enjoy ample legroom and a nearly flat floor, making it comfortable for three. With thoughtful touches like bag hooks and levers to fold the seats, the Kodiaq proves itself to be an outstandingly capable and versatile family SUV.
The Kodiaq offers a powertrain for every need, reinforcing its all-rounder status. The 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol with 148bhp is the sweet spot for most private buyers, offering smooth and adequate performance. For high-mileage drivers, the 2.0-litre TDI diesel is an excellent choice, capable of over 500 miles on a full tank. Company car drivers will be drawn to the new plug-in hybrid, which boasts a real-world electric range of around 60 miles (claimed 70 miles) and rare-for-a-PHEV 50kW rapid charging capability. On the road, the Kodiaq is stable and refined, especially at motorway speeds, with light, predictable steering that makes this large SUV surprisingly easy to place.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The new model of Skoda Kodiaq remains a highly practical, spacious, and well-equipped large family SUV. Whether you need a roomy seven-seater or a five-seater plug-in hybrid SUV with real-world usability, the Kodiaq is a really good option." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Skoda Kodiaq review
8. 2026 Skoda Scala
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Roomy inside, with a particularly big boot | Boring to drive |
| Great value for money | No electric or plug-in hybrid option |
| Comfortable ride | Some of the interior plastics look a touch cheap |
The Skoda Scala hits a sweet spot in the brand’s hatchback line-up, offering a compelling blend of space and value. It’s more compact than the larger Octavia, making it easier to park, yet it provides significantly more interior space than most rivals in the family hatchback class. Rear-seat passengers are treated to generous legroom, and the boot is vast for this type of car, offering 467 litres of capacity. That’s considerably more than you’ll find in a Volkswagen Golf or Vauxhall Astra, cementing the Scala’s position as one of the most practical choices for families who don’t want or need a larger SUV.
On the road, the Scala is a comfortable and easy-going companion. The ride is smooth, soaking up bumpy roads with ease, and the handling is neat and predictable. While it may not offer the driving thrills of a Ford Focus, it excels as a refined cruiser. The two-tier engine range is simple and effective, with the 114bhp 1.0-litre TSI petrol being a great all-rounder that balances performance and efficiency. Although there are no hybrid options, the petrol engines are impressively frugal. Combined with its generous equipment levels, especially in SE trim and above, the Scala represents excellent value for money.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Skoda Scala is one of the best small family cars you can buy. Space, practicality, and value are what this Czech hatchback is all about." - David Motton, contributor
Read our full Skoda Scala review
9. 2009-2017 Skoda Yeti
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 0.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile rear seats | Spare wheel eats into a lot of boot space |
| Good to drive | Petrol engines can have reliability issues |
| Gives the SUV look without being huge | Can suffer from rust |
The Skoda Yeti carved its own niche, blending the practicality of an estate with the raised stance of an SUV. Its party piece is its astonishingly versatile interior. It’s a genuine five-seater, and the three individual rear seats can be flipped down or tumbled forward to create a huge, van-like load bay. Even with the seats up, boot space is a useful 405 litres. The cabin is filled with robust plastics, and the raised driving position gives excellent visibility, making it a hugely popular and practical used buy.
The ride is on the firmer side, which keeps body roll in check through corners, and combined with crisp steering, it makes the Yeti more engaging to drive than many of its small SUV rivals. The engine range is broad, starting with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol and moving up to gutsy 2.0-litre diesels, so there’s a powertrain to suit most needs. Four-wheel drive was also available for those needing extra traction.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Skoda Yeti is a brilliant family car that offers many of the benefits of a modern SUV without vertiginous running costs or unmanageable dimensions, not to mention one of the most versatile and spacious interiors money can buy. It drives well, too, so you don’t have to sacrifice driver enjoyment to own one." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Skoda Yeti review
10. 2026 Skoda Elroq
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Loads of room in the back seats | Can be a bit stiff over bumps |
| Smooth and stable on the motorway | No heat pump as standard |
| Lots of storage space | Boot not as big as in some rivals |
True to Skoda's family-friendly reputation, the Elroq delivers outstanding passenger space. Those in the back get plenty of leg and head room, and the airy cabin has large windows so kids can see out easily. While its 470-litre boot isn't the largest in the class, it's still a very practical shape and features a false floor with clever compartments for stashing charging cables and other small items. Up front, the driver and passenger benefit from lots of useful storage cubbies in the centre console, perfect for stashing the snacks and tablets needed for a long family road trip.
Most buyers will likely opt for the mid-range Elroq 60, which uses a 63kWh battery for a real-world range of around 200 miles and a healthy 201bhp. For those wanting more pace and range, the Elroq 85 offers a 82kWh battery, 282bhp and a real-world range of about 270 miles. Out on the road, the Elroq is a comfortable and stable cruiser, with well-controlled wind and road noise making for relaxing motorway journeys. The taut suspension keeps body lean in check through corners, and combined with crisp steering and plenty of grip, it feels reassuringly competent and easy to drive.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There are more extrovert family SUVs out there, but the Skoda Elroq’s great strength is the hassle-free way in which it gets the job of providing practical family transport done. While it won’t excite you all that much, you’ll be glad of its excellent build quality, plentiful space and well-sized boot." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Skoda Elroq review
FAQs
Which Skoda is the most practical?
For ultimate practicality, it's a toss-up between the Skoda Kodiaq and the Skoda Superb Estate. The Kodiaq is a large SUV that offers the option of seven seats and a massive boot, while the Superb Estate is one of the most spacious estate cars on the market, with a simply cavernous load area. Both are excellent choices for large families or anyone who needs to carry bulky items regularly.
What is the best Skoda for a small family?
The Skoda Karoq is a fantastic all-rounder for a small family. It’s a mid-size SUV that blends a comfortable ride with a spacious, high-quality cabin and a generous boot. For those who prefer a traditional hatchback, the Skoda Octavia offers even more passenger and boot space than many SUVs. If you're on a tighter budget, the smaller Kamiq SUV and Fabia supermini are also surprisingly practical for their size.
Does Skoda make a good electric car?
Yes, the Skoda Enyaq is one of the best electric family SUVs you can buy. It excels with its spacious and practical interior, comfortable ride, and classy feel. It offers strong real-world range and, thanks to recent updates, comes with generous standard equipment. It’s a brilliant example of Skoda applying its core values of space and practicality to the electric era.
Are Skodas reliable cars?
Skoda has a strong reputation for reliability, often performing well in owner satisfaction surveys. As part of the Volkswagen Group, Skodas share many mechanical parts and technologies with Volkswagen, Audi, and Seat, which are generally well-proven. Combined with robust build quality, most owners find their Skodas to be dependable and easy to live with.
What are Skoda's 'Simply Clever' features?
'Simply Clever' is Skoda's name for the range of thoughtful, practical features found in its cars. These are small details designed to make life easier. Common examples include an ice scraper stored inside the fuel filler cap, an umbrella hidden in the driver's door, ticket holders on the windscreen pillar, and removable rubbish bins in the door pockets.
Is a Skoda just a cheap Volkswagen?
This used to be a common perception, but it's no longer accurate. While Skoda and Volkswagen share platforms and engines, Skoda has forged its own identity. Skodas typically prioritise practicality, interior space, and value for money over the more premium feel of a Volkswagen. Many buyers find that a Skoda offers more space and equipment for the same price as its VW equivalent, making it a clever choice rather than a cheap one.
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To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
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