Used Skoda Karoq for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.9%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.6 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 700
Average Price: Around £17,100

Skoda Karoq (2017-present) Pros and Cons

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

Quick Summary

The Skoda Karoq is a dependable and talented small family SUV that has remained competitive nearly a decade after its 2017 launch. Recent updates have enhanced its value proposition, with the 2024 revisions introducing new trim levels (SE Edition, SE L Edition, and SportLine Edition), improved standard equipment, and a revised 1.0-litre EVO2 petrol engine offering 114bhp with better fuel efficiency. The cabin is well-appointed with a 10.25-inch digital driver display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and comprehensive safety features including a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Practicality is excellent, with 521 litres of boot space (up to 1,810 litres with the optional Varioflex seating system), generous headroom and legroom, and clever storage solutions throughout.

The Karoq drives well with neat handling and a composed ride, particularly in all-wheel-drive versions with multi-link rear suspension. Engine options include the economical 1.0-litre TSI petrol (46.4-48.8mpg), the capable 1.5-litre TSI petrol (44.1-47.6mpg depending on gearbox), and a 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel (44.7-49.3mpg). Service intervals are annual or every 10,000 miles, with reasonable maintenance costs through Skoda's authorised network. Whilst not the most exciting to look at, the Karoq is a great car to live with, offering comfort, practicality, and excellent value for families seeking a reliable SUV.

Best for: Families seeking a spacious, practical, and comfortable SUV with excellent standard equipment and low running costs, and buyers prioritising practicality and reliability over driving excitement.

Not ideal for: Those wanting the most engaging driving dynamics (Ford Kuga or Mazda CX-5 are better choices), buyers seeking distinctive styling, or those concerned about reported 1.5 petrol engine issues.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Karoq if: You're seeking a spacious, practical, and comfortable SUV with excellent standard equipment and low running costs, or prioritising practicality and reliability for family use.

Consider alternatives if: You want the most engaging driving dynamics, distinctive styling, or wish to avoid potential 1.5 petrol engine concerns.

Competitive Position: The Skoda Karoq is a strong contender in the small family SUV segment, offering the highest expert and user ratings among its rivals. Whilst the Ford Kuga provides more engaging driving dynamics and the Nissan Qashqai and Seat Ateca offer competitive alternatives, the Karoq excels in practicality, comfort, and standard equipment. Its excellent value proposition, combined with a well-built cabin and comprehensive safety features, makes it an outstanding choice for families prioritising substance over style. The Karoq remains a dependable, talented, and great car to live with.

Read our full Skoda Karoq Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.