Skoda
Elroq
The Elroq is Škoda’s more affordable electric SUV, and is the smaller sibling to the Enyaq. It’s actually based on the same basic mechanical package as the bigger car, which means you can have it with a big battery and a potential range of more than 560km. The cheaper circa-360km version will probably do for most people though. It’s a handsome car on the outside, but still a practical Škoda underneath with a 470-litre boot.
It’s a handsome car on the outside, but still a practical skoda underneath
Enyaq
The Enyaq has just been updated with a new 286hp electric motor, and some tweaks to the 77kWh battery pack (the 58kWh model has been dropped) which stretches the range to as much as 569km on the WLTP cycle. The Enyaq looks the same, which is not bad thing, keeps its high-quality cabin, and its massive 585-litre boot. One of the best all-round EVs about, with a handsome ‘Coupe’ version too.
Fabia
As with every previous Fabia, this one is based on the same chassis and engines as the VW Polo. And as with every previous Fabia, this one is arguably a better buy than the car with the VW badge. The Fabia doesn’t just have a bigger boot (as big as that of a Golf) it also has a cabin that looks and feels nicer than that of the Polo. It also drives the same, but costs a little less, which is a win-win for Škoda.
Kamiq
The Kamiq isn’t one of the more thrilling small SUVs to look at, and nor does it have the sheer driver appeal of the Ford Puma. However, it’s one of the best small SUVs to buy simply because it doesn’t compromise on cabin and boot space, which many of its rivals do. There’s ample space in the Kamiq, even for a growing family, and it’ll be economical to run, too.
Karoq
The Karoq, rather like the closely related SEAT Ateca, is now a step behind the latest technology because Volkswagen has an all-new Tiguan, while the Karoq remains based on the older Tiguan chassis and engines. That’s no harm though – you’re still getting a well-made, enormously practical, safe and economical car to drive. It won’t thrill a keen driver, but families will adore the Karoq’s space and versatility. The 1.5 TSI petrol engine is the pick of the lineup.
Kodiaq
The new Kodiaq has already become a firm favourite with Irish buyers, having been the best-selling car in the country on more than a couple of occasions last year. That’s good going for a car that’s become relatively expensive compared to its predecessor. The standard seven-seat layout offers great practicality, while the new dashboard is almost the equal of an Audi. The PHEV version gets exceptional electric range on one charge, but it does mean sacrificing the rear seats.
Octavia
It’s actually kind of heartwarming that the Škoda Octavia has been the second-best selling car in Ireland in 2024. Heartwarming because it proves that we haven’t quite fully succumbed to SUV-madness yet, and heartwarming too because it proves that Irish buyers know a good car when they see one. Updated mid-year with tweaked styling, new software and an improved interior, the Octavia remains one of the best and most practical cars you can buy.
Scala
The Scala’s problem is car finance. You see, the Scala is a perfectly decent mid-size five-door hatchback, with a big boot, plenty of space and it’s not too shabby to drive either. The engines on offer – variations on the familiar Volkswagen Group 1.0-litre turbo – are sweet to drive, and it’s a well-made car too. So, what’s the problem? The problem is that the bigger, better Octavia costs only an extra €20 a month on finance…
Superb
It’s long been reckoned that the most sensible car you can buy is a Škoda Superb, and even though this one is more expensive than ever, it’s still extremely hard to argue with. It looks like a quality thing from the moment you walk up to it, and inside there’s masses of space, great comfort, and genuine luxury on offer. The plug-in hybrid version is the best all-rounder, and you should definitely buy the Combi estate over the fastback for the best Superb experience.