Simply Clever

With a practical and comfortable interior, sharp but discreet styling and a wide range of VW-sourced petrol and diesel engines, the Karoq has all the ingredients for success.

The Karoq’s MQB underpinnings are well proven, already racking up hundreds of thousands of miles underneath numerous VW Tiguans, Seat Atecas and Audi Q3s. The refreshed cabin, while new to Skoda, would be familiar to anybody who has sat in a modern car from the German brand.

Buyers can choose from a number of petrol or diesel engines, starting from an entry-level 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol to a range-topping 2.0-litre diesel in a variety of power outputs.

The Karoq is a quality product, boasting Skoda’s now-trademark sharp styling lines. It has a reassuring solidity to all the controls, providing a good ride around town while it is relaxing to drive when travelling long distances.

The interior is the real success story of the Karoq. It’s the ideal combination of roomy, premium and clever, and is likely to be a hit with family buyers.

There’s a comfortable amount of room for four six-foot adults, and if you spec the optional VarioFlex system, the rear seats slide and recline individually to help balance boot space and legroom.

Best of all are the ‘Simply Clever’ touches Skoda hides. There’s an optional wireless phone-charging mat ahead of the gear lever, while little additions such as the sealed bin in the door pocket and tablet holders mounted on the front headrests are well-thought out – though these are options.

All models come decently equipped, with entry-level SE models offering 17in. alloy wheels, autonomous emergency braking, automatic lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and cruise control, while inside dual-zone climate control and a raft of touchscreen connectivity come as standard.

The top-of-the-range Edition trim is fitted with LED lights, 19in. alloy wheels, leather upholstery and those excellent VarioFlex seats as standard.

n More information can be obtained from Paul’s Motors, tel. 722191.