SEAT Ateca
Price range: £7,800-£34,995
Our pick: Ateca 1.4 EcoTSI FR (£14,995 18/18 36k miles)
A FORMER winner at our annual New Car Awards ceremony, the SEAT Ateca secured a top-10 finish in this year’s Driver Power survey, proving that it is an equally attractive used choice. Sharp lines mean the Spanish machine still creates a stir, while few compact SUVs are as engaging to drive.
Yet the SEAT is much more than just a pretty face, because its interior mixes the brand’s design flair with impressive quality and enough space for most growing families. There’s a quick 296bhp Cupra version, but for most buyers the 1.5 TSI petrol is the best bet. If you can stretch to a post-2020 facelift model, then you’ll also benefit from an excellent upgraded 9.2-inch infotainment system.
Skoda Kodiaq
Price range: £12,450-£48,175
Our pick: Kodiaq 2.0 TDI SE Technology 4x4 (£18,290 17/17 45k miles)
THE recent arrival of a facelifted Kodiaq means there has never been a better time to bag a used example of Skoda’s large family SUV. Changes to the latest model have been kept to a minimum, so even the earliest examples still look fresh. Inside the Czech car there is the same blend of upmarket finish, robust build quality and generous space.
Seven-seat versions are the most desirable, while the 2.0-litre TDI serves up a good mix of pace, poise and penny-pinching running costs. If you’re looking for all-weather peace of mind, then it’s worth seeking out the very capable 4x4 models.
Kia Sportage
Price range: £7,495-£31,000
Our pick: Sportage 1.7 CRDi 2 (£11,950 17/17 57k miles)
LEADING the charge in Kia’s rise from bargain brand to premium player has been the Sportage. In desirable fourth-generation guise it combines the eye-catching style of its predecessor with an interior that’s roomy, slickly designed and full of decent connectivity.
Light controls and composed handling
