Skoda Karoq review - MPG, running costs & CO2

SUVs of this size became popular thanks to their affordable running costs and the Karoq continues this trend. With two petrol engines offering plenty of power and the promise of low running costs and a low starting price, diesel isn’t necessarily the default option, either. Regardless of which engine you choose, the Karoq should cost little more to run than an equivalent hatchback, even though its economy figures aren’t class-leading.

Skoda Karoq MPG & CO2

The diminutive 1.0-litre TSI petrol can return up to 47.1mpg and emits 137g/km of CO2, placing it in the medium to high BiK bands for business users, depending on the trim level and wheels fitted. These figures aren’t quite as low as the Peugeot 3008, nor any of its hybrid rivals. Upgrade to the 1.5-litre TSI petrol and despite being 50% larger, economy and emissions aren’t drastically different thanks to that engine's cylinder deactivation technology, which effectively switches off half of the engine when it isn't needed. It can return up to 47.1mpg, with CO2 emissions from 137g/km. Note that the 18-inch wheels on SE L and SportLine models make the engines a little less efficient.

The 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine can return up to 49.2mpg with CO2 emissions from 150g/km, so there isn't a big advantage in choosing it over the petrol, unless you spend lots of time on the motorway and have a high annual mileage. The diesel now comes as standard with Skoda's four-wheel drive system, so it’s not quite as efficient as the old front-wheel drive versions.

A 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine is still available on Skoda's price lists, but it’s unlikely to appeal to many buyers in the UK. It’s limited to the SportLine trim and only manages up to 36.7mpg; its emissions of more than 175g/km place it in the highest BiK band, meaning it won’t appeal to company-car drivers.

After the first year's CO2-based road tax (generally included in the on-the-road price), all Karoqs are liable for the standard VED (road tax) rate each year. It is possible to spend over £40,000 on top-spec cars with a few options, but you’ll pay over £500 a year in tax at this point.

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Insurance groups

The Karoq should be affordable to insure, with the entry-level petrol engine starting in insurance group 12. The 1.5-litre petrol finds itself in group 18, while the entry-level 2.0-litre diesel starts in group 15. These are lower groups than the Nissan Qashqai, which starts in group 16, while the 3008 spans from groups 11-24.

Warranty

Skoda’s three-year/60,000-mile warranty is fairly standard and on par with Peugeot’s, but buying a Toyota, Renault, Hyundai or Kia will net you a longer period of cover, lasting for seven years in the case of the Kia Sportage.

Servicing

Skoda offers two types of servicing, depending on your driving habits. If you take lots of short journeys, the fixed servicing is best, requiring annual attention. Long-distance motorway drivers can benefit from a variable servicing schedule, where sensors in the car determine when a service is due, normally making them further apart. It’s also possible to pay for the first two services upfront, costing around £450.