Best used ULEZ-compliant SUVs for less than £20,000

The third-generation Sorento is a big, practical, large SUV with just one engine option. It's a 197bhp 2.2-litre diesel unit that's reasonably punchy and fuel efficient – you can expect to achieve around 41.5mpg according to the official WLTP testing. It rides well and its handling is safe, if a little uninspiring. It also has four-wheel drive, for a bit more security on difficult roads.

We found: 2016 Kia Sorento 2.2 CRDI KX-2, 39,146 miles, £19,995

The practical 3008 is an eye-catching family SUV inside and out. Its 1.6-litre diesel engine is a fine choice because it's very refined, produces useful low-down grunt to help you make relaxed progress and officially achieves a very frugal 70.6mpg (NEDC). This engine has been replaced on newer versions with a 1.5-litre unit that can average 55.1mpg under the newer WLTP testing. 

We found: 2017 Peugeot 3008 1.6 BlueHDI 120 GT Line, 40,470 miles, £18,300

You get a lot for your money with the Tucson family SUV. For example, SE Nav models have sat-nav, a rear-view camera, rear parking sensors, cruise control, climate control and heated front seats. The driving experience isn’t particularly engaging, but it's comfortable enough and its light steering takes the stress out of parking. With the 1.7-litre diesel engine, power is punchy and running costs are low. 

We found: 2018 Hyundai Tucson 1.7 CRDI Blue Drive SE Nav, 38,320 miles, £16,905

The Sportage is a practical and good value family SUV. It's good to drive too, and all its controls are light and easy to manage. The ride is firmer than on some rivals, but as long as you stick with mid-range models on 17in wheels, it won't be uncomfortable. Kia's 1.7-litre diesel engine is a good match for the Sportage because its extra low-down torque suits relaxed driving. 

We found: 2018 Kia Sportage 1.7 CRSI ISG 2, 25,633 miles, £17,999

BMW can do practical SUVs just as well as it can do sporty saloons, and the X1 is proof of this. It's a well thought out family SUV with sliding rear seats for either increased leg room or boot space, a flexible 40/20/40-split folding rear bench and a powered tailgate all as standard. The X1 is good to drive too, with precise steering and copious amounts of grip, and the 18d engine is punchy enough for all situations. 

We found: 2017 BMW X1 SDrive 18d XLine, 66,230 miles, £19,000

The second-generation Tiguan builds on all the best bits of the original model while giving buyers more space inside, an improved infotainment system and big-car refinement. Few family SUVs are as relaxing to drive, whether you’re stuck in traffic or cruising down a motorway. Grip is good and the ride deals with the initial shock of potholes and speed bumps without bothering you.

We found: 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI 150 4Motion SE Nav, 54,076 miles, £19,831

Audi’s smallest SUV is a classy car with a pleasingly premium interior. The Q2 is also pleasant to drive, with a well-judged steering weight, and offers plenty of grip. The gearbox is slick and helps make the most of the 113bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine. Add in decent fuel economy and a surprising amount of practicality and you've got a very tempting package. 

We found: 2017 Audi Q2 1.6 TDI Sport, 27,450 miles, £19,995

The Ateca is remarkably good to drive, comes with plenty of equipment and has all the space you could want in a family SUV. Plus, it gets a range of efficient, refined engines, including a 1.6-litre diesel unit with 115bhp that's great for motorway miles as well as stints in ULEZ zones. With that engine, the Ateca is punchy and economical. Used prices are temptingly low, too. 

We found: 2017 Seat Ateca 1.6 TDI Ecomotive SE Technology, 23,000 miles, £16,750

The Karoq family SUV covers all bases. For example, parents will appreciate the thoughtful touches such as the wide door openings that make it easier to put a child into a booster seat. The interior is also well made and features good-quality materials. Light steering makes parking easy and the supple ride at speed allows you to tackle big trips with minimum fatigue. It's also great value.

We found: 2018 Skoda Karoq 1.6 TDI SE L, 30,777 miles, £19,500

With a raised-up driving position and rugged looks, the 5008 large SUV has plenty of style, and fortunately that's matched with a lot of substance. It's very practical and can seat seven people. There's a range of fuel-efficient diesel engines, with later cars available with an excellent 128bhp 1.5-litre unit. Combine all that with good equipment levels and road manners, and it's no wonder it won our overall 2022 Used Car of the Year award. With prices rising, you might have to shop around to get one within our £20,000 budget.

We found: 2018 Peugeot 5008 1.6 BlueHDI 120 Allure, 77,348 miles, £19,997