If you’re in the market for a mid-size luxury SUV, you'll undoubtedly come across both the Range Rover Evoque and the Discovery Sport in your search. Whilst these are a few similarities, the two cars are aimed at slightly different markets. This guide will help you pick between the two.

From the 1970s to the launch of the Evoque, Range Rovers were always full-size SUVs, with the smallest being the Range Rover Sport. In 2011 the Jaguar Land Rover group identified a gap in the market for a smaller car that retains the Range Rover branding and style. 

The Evoque was very popular on release and still is today, 14 years later. It appeals to those looking for the luxury and style of a Range Rover, but who don't need an enormous SUV like the full-size Range Rover.

Originally, the Land Rover Discovery was a less agricultural version of the Defender, featuring better bodywork and a more comfortable interior. Over the years, the Discovery evolved into something more akin to the Range Rover but retained its off-road prowess.

The Discovery Sport was launched in 2014, as a replacement for the outgoing Freelander. It was incredibly successful, appealing to those looking for a luxurious yet compact SUV. It stands a good bit smaller than both the Discovery and the Range Rover. 

Both cars are on the larger side, being compact SUVs, check out the table below to compare the two:

From the stats above, we can see the Evoque is smaller in every dimension, with its height being considerably shorter than the discovery. This gives it a much sleeker look, with notably shorter windows in the front and back. 

Interestingly the boot space is very similar on both, despite the Evoque being 240mm shorter. There is also less than a tennis ball's width between them, meaning any parking spot or tight road you navigate will be as difficult in either car.

Both the Evoque and the Discovery Sport have hybrid options, you can have either a petrol or diesel plug-in hybrid. Both engines are derived from BMW units, so should be pretty reliable. 

Both cars can be optioned with many of the same engines, with multiple petrol and diesels for both. Starting with the smallest, a 1.5 petrol MHEV powertrain is available giving good economy but mediocre performance, especially in the larger Discovery. The next size up being the 2.0.

If you do longer journeys or tow a trailer, a better option might be the one of the various diesels in the range. The most popular being the 2.0 MHEV, producing 201bhp and a substantial 429Nm of torque. 

As the engines are the same across the models, it's really down to how you plan to use the car, as to which one will suit you best.

Whilst the Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport are from different sub-brands, the design philosophy is evidently shared. The shape of the headlights, front wings and grille are very similar.

Both cars hit the nail on the head for the luxury SUV segment, with stylish and sleek look accents to the overall look. With its higher roofline, the Discovery Sport does show its roots to a utility vehicle a little more, but not so much to mistake it for anything other than a luxury SUV.

Inside, both cars share the same steering wheel and infotainment screen. The dashboard and centre console are both evidently from the same designer too. One thing to differentiate is the Evoques' slightly more contoured seats and centre console. 

If buying on the second-hand or nearly new market, you're much more likely to find an Evoque with a coloured interior than the discovery, the latter being almost exclusively supplied in matt black finish.

If you look at the reliability scores for both cars, there isn’t much between them, both score around the same level, with the Discovery faring slightly better across most categories.

In terms of warranty, both cars come with a 3-year, unlimited mileage warranty, so it would probably serve you well to buy new or nearly new, rather than off-lease unless you have a decent aftermarket warranty. 

Repair costs for Range Rover products are some of the highest of any brand, so bear this in mind when making your decision.

As you’d expect, both cars received a 5-star NCAP rating at the time of launch. The Evoque’s adult occupancy rating is the only standout rating of the below stats, putting it a good way ahead of the Discovery Sport.

In terms of airbags, collision avoidance and other safety features, there’s nothing between them.

The Discovery Sport starts at around £43,445 if you configure one direct from Range Rover, you may be able to get a discount on a forecourt car though, especially if you're quick, considering the new reg will be arriving in April.

The Evoque is around the same price, at £43,700, again you could possibly pick up a deal from a main dealer if you’re quick. This puts the cars directly in competition with one another, meaning the decision between the two is based primarily on their looks, practicality and taste.

Both models offer multiple levels of equipment specification, with everything from adaptive cruise control and sunroofs to towing packs and sporty seats on offer. 

If you want an SUV that focuses on style and sleekness, the Evoque is the perfect choice, being the baby in the Range Rover lineup. If off-road capability and load-carrying capacity are the be-all and end-all, the Discovery Sport will offer more in both departments.

Once in the cabin, there’s not much you’ll do to notice the difference, with fit and trim being relatively similar. Ultimately both will offer an incredibly luxurious alternative to the more bare-bones compact SUVs on the market.

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Range Rover Evoque Vs Land Rover Discovery Sport

If you’re in the market for a small or compact Ford, the choice often boils down to two options: the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus. Both cars are UK staples, known for their driving dynamics, practicality, and overall good value for money. 

However, while they come from the same brand, they’re aimed at slightly different segments of the market. In this article, we’ll compare the two models across key areas to help you decide which one suits you best.

 has been one of the most popular small cars in the UK for decades. Originally launched in 1976, the Fiesta has evolved into a practical and fun-to-drive hatchback that appeals to first-time buyers, city dwellers, and those who simply want a reliable car for everyday use.

It offers a range of engine options, technology, and customisation, making it a versatile choice in the small car category, it currently sits as Ford’s second-smallest car. The Fiesta isn’t in production any more, but you can still get some nearly-new models for a reasonable price.

 is a compact family hatchback that has been a mainstay of the UK car market since 1998. Known for its sharp handling and practicality, the Focus offers more space than the Fiesta while still being nimble enough to appeal to those who enjoy a lively driving experience. 

It’s a good fit for families or individuals who need a little more space, but still want a manageable car for urban driving.

When it comes to size, the Fiesta is noticeably smaller, being over a foot in length shorter. This translates to a bigger boot and more legroom for rear passengers. 

As expected, the Ford Focus is larger in nearly every dimension. It offers more interior space, especially when it comes to boot capacity, making it a better option for families or those who regularly carry more luggage. 

The Fiesta, however, is more compact and nimble, making it ideal for tight urban environments and smaller parking spaces. Interestingly the Focus weighing only 133kg more should help it remain nearly on-par fuel economy-wise.

Both the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus are available in hybrid versions, reflecting the industry's shift towards greener alternatives. The Fiesta is available as a mild-hybrid (MHEV) with a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. 

The Focus also offers MHEV variants, as well as a full hybrid version with a 2.0-litre engine and an electric motor. This allows for a better balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a good option for longer trips or those doing motorway journeys regularly. 

However, neither car is currently offered as a fully electric model, though Ford’s plans for the future might change this.

Both the Fiesta and Focus offer a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as hybrid variants.

The Fiesta’s engine lineup includes a 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 95bhp, 125bhp, or 155bhp, with a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. In 2020, Ford stopped offering the Fiesta with a Diesel engine.

The Ford Focus has a large range of engines, with options ranging from a 1.0-litre EcoBoost to a more powerful 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel producing up to 120bhp. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available.

If you're planning on regular motorway trips or towing, the Focus is also available with a 150 or 190hp 2.0 diesel, giving the power and torque needed over the smaller petrol engines.

The Ford Fiesta and Focus are both recognisably Ford, but they cater to different tastes. The Fiesta is more compact, with a more youthful design that has sharp lines and a more aggressive front grille. The later models all began to adopt some of the styling of the ST line, sportier versions.

The Focus, while sharing some styling cues with the Fiesta, has a more mature, sophisticated look. It’s larger and more sculpted, with a bolder grille and sleeker lines, making it appear more grown-up and executive.

In short, if you prefer a sportier vibe, the Fiesta will appeal more. If you're after something a bit more refined and practical, the Focus might be more your style.

Inside, the Fiesta is designed for a smaller, more minimalist feel. It offers a good-quality interior with soft-touch materials, but it doesn’t feel as spacious or plush as the Focus. The dashboard layout is simple, with a large touchscreen in the centre and physical buttons for ease of use.

The Ford Focus offers a more premium interior, with a larger infotainment screen and a more expansive layout. The materials used feel more upmarket, and there’s more space throughout, including rear-seat legroom. The Focus feels like a step up in terms of overall comfort and luxury.

From new, both came with Ford’s standard 3-year/60,000-mile warranty, but as the Fiesta is no longer available new, be sure to check things like service history carefully. Both cars are generally well-regarded, with the Fiesta holding a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability due to its simpler technology and lower running costs.

One consideration with both of these cars and any recent Ford product is the EcoBoost wet belt issue. On some engines, the 1.0 litre being the biggest offender, the 

 deteriorating can contaminate the oil, leading to engine failure. 

Before purchasing any car with a wet cam belt, check the engine oil and cambelt servicing meticulously, and avoid any car that’s missing proof of these service items.

Both the Ford Fiesta and Focus are equipped with modern safety features, including multiple airbags, traction control, and automatic emergency braking. The Ford Fiesta has received a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with good results in adult occupant protection and pedestrian safety.

The Focus also boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and includes more advanced safety tech, like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It offers a higher level of safety tech, making it a better option if advanced features are a priority.

The Ford Fiesta starts at around £16,000 for the base model, making it an affordable option for those on a tighter budget. As the Fiesta is no longer available new, there are some good deals to be had on a 3-year-old off-lease car.

The Ford Focus, being a larger and more premium offering, starts at around £28,500. Higher-end models like the Titanium and ST-Line tack on anything from £3-6,000.

In terms of value for money, the Fiesta excels for those who want a cheap, fun, and reliable car, but if you need extra space and practicality, the Focus offers excellent value for money too.

The Ford Fiesta is the perfect choice for those who need a compact, affordable car for city driving or commuting. Its small size, lower running costs, and fun handling make it ideal for young drivers or anyone who doesn’t need a lot of space.

On the other hand, the Ford Focus offers a more mature and refined driving experience, with more space, better comfort, and more advanced safety features. It’s the better choice for families, longer commutes, or those who want a more grown-up car.

Ultimately, the choice between the Fiesta and Focus depends on your priorities: whether it’s the nimble agility of the Fiesta or the more spacious and sophisticated Focus. Both are excellent cars in their own right, so you can’t go wrong with either option.

Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which Should You Choose?

With the Golf arguably being the quintessential hatchback, you’d be forgiven for gravitating towards it immediately when searching for a new, practical family car. However, the new Polo is bigger than ever, and might actually be plenty of car for your needs, at a lower price point. 

In this article, I’ll compare the two on all the critical features, and give you some useful information to pick between the two.

 was the German automaker's replacement for the incredibly successful “car of the people”; the Beetle. Its design brief was simple, to be as compact and efficient as possible, whilst being able to carry 4 adults and luggage. 

Since then it has remained one of the most popular car models to exist, with everyone from new drivers to families enjoying the hatchback's practicality, with the great driveability.

Since its release it has seen 8 major model changes, with the current generation, the Mk8.5 (facelifted Mk8), being launched in 2020. The main shift over time is scale, the current Golf is enormous compared to the original.

Capitalising on the Golf's success, VW wanted to make a smaller version, to appeal to city drivers. Their prior acquisition of Audi in the 1960s gave the VW engineers the perfect car to rebadge; the Audi 50. In 1975 they launched the 

Since then the Polo has gone through 6 generations, with the current model, the Mk6 facelift or Mk6.5 having been in production since 2012. A new model, the Mk7, is expected to be launched this year, so if you want the latest look, hold tight for that.

The two cars fall distinctly into two categories, Hatchback for the Golf, and Supermini for the Polo, although this could be contested with the creation of the even smaller but now discontinued VW Lupo and Up!. 

The Golf's more generous proportions are noticeable when compared side-by-side, except the height, I’ve listed the key stats below:

Interestingly, whilst the Golf is 200mm (8”) longer than the Polo, and a whopping 681kg heavier, its boot capacity is only 30L more, which when you consider the width of the boot area, will make very little difference to usable space.

Currently, the Polo is not available with any hybrid or electric options, with all engines being either solely petrol or diesel-powered. The Golf is available in the GTE version, which delivers nearly 250hp via an electric-hybrid combination.

Until 2020 the e-Golf provided an all-electric option, but this was discontinued in line with the introduction of the ID range of all-electric vehicles, the ID.3 being the Golf equivalent.

Across the Golf’s range of petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, there is sure to be something that suits your needs. Power outputs range from an economic 115PS from the 1.5 TSI petrol to over 240 in the GTI. 

Many of these options can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG auto gearbox.

On the other hand, the Polo has a tight range of petrol engines, either a 1.0L or a 2.0L are on offer, with power outputs varying from 79hp to just over 200 - the latter from the sporty GTI model. 

Being similar-sized cars from the same brand, the Polo and Golf are very similar in their looks, with only very subtle differences in shapes and colourways of trim. The biggest difference is the proportions of both. 

Whilst the Golf has become more squat; being wide and with a relatively low roofline, the Polo actually looks quite tall. This is backed up by the numbers we saw earlier, where the Polo is only marginally lower than the Golf, but a good bit shorter.

To be sure which you prefer, seeing them side-by-side will be invaluable because the difference really is so small it's hard to spot it at first glance.

Being made by Volkswagen, neither car will disappoint in the build quality department. Whilst the interior panels aren’t covered with soft, quilted leather, they are robust and without any kind of ‘flimsiness’. 

Styling-wise, in my opinion, the Golf presents a more mature, thought-out version of the Polo. Its dashboard design is similar, but more refined, with everything on a touchscreen, that although not loved by all, makes for a sleeker look. 

That’s not to say the Polo is basic or boring though, for its class it looks incredible, especially compared to something like a Fiesta.

Unfortunately, reliability is something that VW has been struggling with in recent years, with a certain few models at least. The Mk8 golf happens to be one of them, in Whatcar?’s recent reliability survey, the Golf placed 34 out of 37, not a good position!

The Polo fared better, landing in the middle of the table, tying with one of its rivals, the Ford Fiesta, and losing out to most others.

Volkswagen offers the same warranty plan as Skoda, in that they offer a 60,000-mile or 3-year warranty. This is great for those driving them on lease but doesn’t offer much reassurance for those buying second-hand. However, you can extend the warranty at a reasonable cost, assuming the car is serviced with Volkswagen dealer garages.

Being flagship models, both have great safety features, and both scoring 5-star ratings in their respective NCAP testing. The table below highlights some key takeaways from both models’ safety features.

Whilst both cars have high ratings across the board, the Polo excels in its adult occupancy rating. This may be down to the fact it has a Side Pelvis airbag for both the driver and passenger, in contrast to the Golf.

With the Golf starting at £27,760, and the Polo £21,210, there’s a significant cost incentive to pick the Polo, this will however come at a slight feature deficit. 

As standard, the Golf comes equipped with features such as a leather steering wheel, wireless phone charging and keyless start, all things the Polo does not have. Whilst there isn’t a huge amount of feature overlap, the lowest spec Polo that matches the basic Golf is R-Line, which starts at £24,550. 

Ultimately, the deciding factor is how you intend to use the car, whilst both offer great driving characteristics and efficiency, the Polo is better suited to around-town driving, and the Golf for longer journeys. The extra weight and wheelbase should offer a more stable platform in the Golf, meaning it is better suited to high-speed motorway work.

That said, the Polo does offer similar luggage and passenger space, along with some great features as standard. If you are looking for something compact and stylish, the Polo is a perfect choice too. 

Volkswagen Golf vs Polo

If you prefer to take some of the stress out of driving by having an automatic, but don’t need a large engine or car, you may find your choice is slightly limited, especially with a budget constraint too. 

Thankfully though, this blog will give some good options for the best small automatic cars in the UK, all for under £5,000.

Whilst the styling may not be to everyone's taste, you can’t dispute the practicality or reliability of a used 

As standard, it offers pretty much the same storage space as a larger family-sized hatchback, but all whilst being only slightly bigger than a supermini.

Even though the Jazz seems to hold its value well, £5,000 will comfortably get you either the 1.3 

CVT drivetrain, or the 1.4 petrol engine. Both will provide long service, provided they are serviced on time, and no gear changing needed!

Expect to get a 2012 car with around 80,000 miles on the clock for £5k, check for service history and 

 the one weakness of most small Japanese cars.

As it’s the best-selling car in the UK, there’s no doubt the 

 works well for UK roads, its compact exterior combined with ample interior space make it the perfect sized car for many. 

The options for automatics are limited, with mainly petrol engines to pick from. 

A post-2013 car certainly looks more modern, but make sure the engine oil has been changed on time, many of these 1.0-litre Ecoboost engines suffered with 

An earlier, pre-2013 car won’t give the same issues, but the 1.4 or 1.6 engines are a little less efficient.

£4,500 will buy a pre-2012 car with under 80,000 miles, budget nearer £5,000 for the later car, but watch out for that 

There’s plenty of engine choices to pick from with this generation (07-14)of 

 from the 1.2 TSI, a turbocharged petrol, to the really quite nippy 1.4 vRS. 

All three options can be paired to the Volkswagen Audi Group DSG 

 which is a great box, as long as it’s maintained.

Inside, even the high spec vRS model feels a little bare, with mostly hard plastics and a purely functional design. The included features are generally quite good, though with most vRS models having cruise control, 

As it’s based on the same platform as the Skoda Fabia mentioned above, the 09-17 shape 

 offers roughly the same amount of space inside, with the benefit of having a slightly better interior, there’s less harsh plastics, and the dash and controls are much more aesthetically pleasing.

Mechanically, the Polo and Fabia are very similar, sharing the same selection of engines and gearboxes. 

If you want to grab a bargain under £5000, then you’ll likely have to settle for slightly higher mileage, or an older vehicle, if you want the VW over the Skoda.

Whilst the pre-2012 models now look a bit dated, the later 

 (2012-2018) still feels somewhat contemporary. 

They feature the same shape grille as the new cars, and the LED side lights add to the modern feel. 

Only one engine option is really available to those needing an auto; the 1.6 turbo diesel. Thankfully this engine is a pretty good one, offering reliability and a claimed 62 MPG, even with the automatic gearbox.

A low mileage 2014 Kia Ceed model can be bought for just under £5,000, and there’s plenty of choice on the secondhand market.

Certainly on the larger size of what could be considered a small car, you do get a lot for your money with a 

The 1.6 TDI gives a good balance of economy and power, with a claimed 67MPG possible. If you do plenty of motorway journeys, you might find the extra power that comes with the 2.0 TDI worthwhile.

For less than £5,000 you will be looking at cars made around 2010 - 2013, you can typically find examples with just under 100,000 miles on the clock.

Make sure the DSG gearbox has been serviced, it is a well-performing gearbox, but can give issues if not maintained.

 is a great little car, they have a decent amount of interior space, reasonably good handling and are 

 The auto is only available with the larger 1.5 litre engine, which is still reasonably 

Like many small Japanese cars, the interior is functional but basic, with steering wheel controls and air conditioning being the most you can expect.

A great deal because with £4,000 you’ll be able to buy a half-decent car, with sub 80,000 miles, though it will be a little older than most on this list.

Certainly a left-field option, and whilst not strictly an automatic, an 

 does have the same easy driving style, having just two pedals.

 was one of the first affordable EVs that appeared on the market, but there’s still plenty of life to be had from an older electric car. 

The significant downside of an older EV is the reduction in range, when the new Leaf had around 100 miles, a 2017 car, which is just about possible on a £5k budget, is likely to have around 75 miles of range in 2025. 

 and somewhere to charge it, this could be a viable budget option. 

Being one of the most popular super-minis since its release, the 

 clearly filled a gap in the market for a very small, reliable car perfect for new drivers or those living in cities. 

Thankfully, it was also offered in an automatic version, called the “Multimode”. The name refers to the ability to be driven in manual mode.

Its gearbox is an automated-manual, something I would usually say to stay away from, but despite being a little hesitant at low speeds, the multimode box is said to be surprisingly good, and above all, reliable.

A 2012-2013 Toyota Aygo can be bought for under £4,000, with less than 100,000 miles on the clock.

What is the best type of automatic to buy?

Its said that the traditional torque-converter gearbox is the most dependable, as it is the simplest. However they are less efficient than a DSG or twin clutch gearbox, and usually best suited to cars with bigger engines. 

It depends on your circumstances, for some people, depressing the clutch can become tiresome or painful, especially in traffic. Autos also allow you to focus more on the road ahead.

That said, manuals are usually cheaper, and offer new drivers a chance to acutely understand how their drivetrain functions, which can help further down the road.

What are the downsides of an automatic car?

There aren’t many, some drivers prefer the level of control you can get with a manual gearbox. Depending on the gearbox, they can be less efficient. Typically any problems that arise with the gearbox will be more expensive with an automatic, too.

Repair Your Automatic (or manual!) Car with Bumper

Bumper allows you to spread out those expensive bills, with zero-percent financing on car repairs. 

 can be found nationwide, getting you back on the road with minimal fuss, and eased cash-flow.

Best Small Automatic Cars Under £5,000

9 Kleinwagen mit Automatikgetriebe unter 5000 €

With similar names and reminiscent styling, it may be a challenge to pick between the Karoq and the Kodiaq. This guide will pit one against the other, and should hopefully help you make a decision between these two Czech SUVs.

As Skoda's flagship, “full-size” SUV, the 

 is a favourite of larger families looking for that bit of extra space. It comes with either 5 or 7 seats, and in many different trim levels. Prices start at £38,720. 

Whilst the Kodiaq is based on the same platform as the Volkswagen Tiguan, which is not the German brand’s largest SUV, the Kodiaq is the largest SUV offered by Skoda. It was first introduced in 2016, and the current car - launched in 2024, is the second generation. 

 is Skoda’s mid-size SUV/Crossover. It’s based on the same platform as the Seat Ateca, and is only available with 5 seats. Prices start at £30,670, and rise to just over £37,000 for the Sportline trim.

It was first introduced in 2017, to fill the gap left by the outgoing Yeti, a model loved by many for its spacious interior and quirky looks. So far sales have been strong, but the relatively new Kamiq has stolen some of the market share, more on that below.

If you’re looking for a large car, with as much space as possible, the Kodiaq is the best option. It is however a good deal larger than the Karoq, meaning it’ll be harder to park, and take more care to navigate narrow streets in. The table below compares the two.

We can see from the data above that the Kodiaq is a good 4 inches wider than the Karoq, this may not seem like much, but the Karoq is already a decent sized car, being 4 inches wider than a typical saloon car. 

The width and height contribute to both vehicles luggage capacity, though the Kodiaq’s is severely restricted with the 6th and 7th seats in place, but that’s something that can’t really be avoided, short of driving a minibus! 

There’s really no clear winner here, it will be purely down to how you want to use your car, if 7 seats or a large boot and 5 seats are a must, the Kodiaq takes a point. If not, it’s probably better to consider the smaller, and lighter Karoq.

Something to mention is that the Karoq is not currently available with any form of hybrid or electric powertrain. In contrast, you can get the Kodiaq in EV, hybrid or petrol/diesel variants. This can also affect both company car tax, and VED.

This earns points for Kodiaq, as it means it can match the much smaller Karoq in running costs. 

If you’re not interested in any electrification, you can pick from 4 different engine options in the Karoq.

Engine options between the two models are reasonably good, with a range of petrol and diesels on offer.

In the SE and SE-L trim Kodiaq, you can pick from either a 1.5 or a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol, with 150 and 190hp respectively. There's only one diesel engine available, with multiple power outputs on offer, from 150 to 240hp. Hybrid options include a mild system or a plug-in, both in conjunction with the 1.5 TSI petrol engine.

None of the engine options for the Kodiaq are available with a manual gearbox, they all come with the VW-group DSG twin-clutch automatic.

Options in the standard trim Karoq range from a 1.0 or 1.5 litre turbocharged petrol, or a 2.0 litre diesel. No hybrid is on offer. Power ranges from 116hp from the 1.0 petrol, to 150hp, from all other options. The 1.5 petrol is available in both DSG (auto) and manual.

If we’re being honest, there isn’t a huge difference between the Kodiaq and the Karoq, both share the same design language and have similar proportions. The big difference is best seen in person, where the overall scale of the Kodiaq is apparent.

Both cars are good to look at, especially in sportline or VRs trim, where the chrome is replaced with black accents, and the 17” alloys are upgraded to 5-spoke diamond cut ones. 

You could be forgiven for thinking, whilst inside a Karoq, that it's simply a low-spec Kodiaq, they share many of the same dashboard features and designs. 

Both feature the same centre console design, with the gear selector being sandwiched between two vertical panels, the difference being the base spec Karoq simply uses hard, textured plastic, whilst most versions of the Kodiaq are finished in soft touch leather.

The seats are another area that differs between the two cars, the Kodiaq getting sculpted “microsuede” upholstery, with the Karoq featuring plain old cloth. That said, many of the pre-spec’d Karoqs you can buy today, have the quilted suede too.

Naturally both cars come with the same warranty term, of 3 years or 60,000 miles. This is paltry if we compare it to that of Hyundai and Kia, but if you do significant mileage per year, and will be 

Reliability is a tricky one to place, without a few years' data to look back on, it's entirely speculation. However, recent WhatCar reliability ratings typically place Skoda in the mid-upper third, which should mean both cars are reasonably reliable.

Both cars received a 5 star NCAP rating, which is pretty typical of Volkswagen Group vehicles. They scored pretty closely in most areas, some of the key takeaways being listed below. 

Averaging across the board, there is no clear winner between the two, with the Kodiaq having a higher child occupant safety, but lower adult safety score. Safe to say, both cars will offer excellent protection in an accident. 

With the Kodiaq being the bigger car, it’s naturally the more expensive of the two, it also comes with larger and more powerful engines. The Karq does include many of the same tech features though, with things like the heated front seats, heated steering wheel and the reversing camera as standard.

If we compare the base spec cars, the 5 seat Kodiaq comes in at around £8,000 more than the Karoq, considering the latter is loaded with tech as standard, it’s really only the size you’re paying more for. 

These are very similar cars, with only their size setting them apart. Whilst the Kodiaq has an enormous boot (on the 5 seat version), the Karoq starts at over £8,000 cheaper. Personally, unless I was in dire need of those two extra seats, I’d pick the Karoq.

However, if carrying 7 people is something you do regularly, the Kodiaq has to be the car to go for. That said, with both of these cars facing stiff competition, and the market being in uncertain times, shop around for deals on both.

Skoda Kodiaq Vs Skoda Karoq

Buying on the used market can offer incredible value, as long as you’re prepared to make a few sacrifices regarding the newest features. In my opinion, £5,000 is plenty to get something reliable and safe, here are some of the best options.

Naturally, the smaller the car the cheaper they are, this means in some cases being able to secure a fairly modern-looking set of wheels for £5k.

A city car first sold in the UK in 2005, the Aygo is a favourite of new drivers and inner-city commuters across the country. It features a spritely but dependable 

 and a surprising amount of tech for the price. 

Just under £4,500 can get you a sub-10-year-old car, but if you want one with a nice spec and under 90,000 miles, a 2014 plate is more realistic.

 comes with a touchscreen for multimedia, air conditioning and even a parking camera. 

For something a little bigger, the Fiesta is a nice compromise between a city car and a family hatchback. This is the later Mk6 model, which might look a bit dated to some, but it offers a great amount of space for the money.

 comes with the basic but reliable 1.4 engine - I would personally avoid any 1.0T EcoBoost cars unless they have impeccable service history, a recent 

, air conditioning, and an aux hookup. As it's a titanium trim it also has the larger alloys and darkened rear glass.

2016 Mazda Mazda2 1.5 SKYACTIV-G - £4,990

Another great small car, the Mazda2 has been a popular 

 since its launch. This one features the innovative 1.5-litre petrol engine, capable of a respectable 90 horsepower, but more importantly over 70 MPG.

At £20 per year to tax, and an insurance band of 13E it shouldn’t break the bank to keep on the road too. 

 with under 70,000 miles, full-service history and modern infotainment. If you’re after a small city car, these are a top-pick.

If you have kids and possibly pets to transport, a city car isn’t going to cut it. Whilst still being easy to park and navigate towns and cities with, these hatchbacks offer that bit more space, and even more features. 

Volvo are known for their safe cars, the V40 was introduced as a slight deviation from their normal lineup of saloons or estates but has gone on to become one of their more popular models. Interior space is good, with plenty of room in the back for 3, and the 

I’d suggest a post-2015 model, just to avoid ULEZ and large VED (road tax) costs, pre-2015 models are still good cars, but I would strongly suggest picking one with a 5-cylinder Volvo engine and not the 1.6 diesel. This model has a few more miles on the clock, but that shouldn’t be an issue as it has a good service history. 

 has been a byword for the family hatchback for decades, and it’s still a great choice. They are a great combination of space and functionality. The 1.6 TDI engine in 

 claims over 80 MPG, and costs nothing per year to tax!

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

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