You get everything you love about Skodas in a small crossover version.
The Skoda Kamiq has finally arrived after a lengthy teaser campaign. This product is not to be confused with the named model, which was introduced last year in China. It is more expensive and specifically designed for the European market. To better target younger customers, it looks significantly different from the Karoq and Kodiaq. It is also more fun than the closely related Volkswagen T-Cross, which is, for example, more stylish than a Tiguan.
Although it’s sharper than its larger brothers, the headlight arrangement has changed. The slimmer upper clusters now serve as daytime running lights as well as double as turn signals. This cluster is the main headlight and it is in a reverse configuration to the Karoq or Kodiaq. The sleek taillights at the back feature sequential turn signals, making their debut on a production vehicle. Skoda To give the Kamiq a more elegant appearance.
Although the teaser images showed massive alloy wheels, as with almost every design sketch in the automotive sector, the largest set is only 18 inches. The crossover measures 4.24 meters (166.9 in) in length. It has 400 liters (14.1 cubes) of cargo volume when the rear seats are in place, and 1,395 Liters (49.2 cubes) when the bench is folded. Skoda compliments the cabin’s spaciousness, noting that there is 77 cm (30 inches) between rear bench and back seat.
The interior is largely an heirloom from the Scala hatchback. There isn’t much to be said about it. Upper-spec models can have an entirely digital 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster. The touchscreen for the infotainment systems measures 6.5, 8.2 and 9.2 inches. There are many safety systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping aid, and automatic emergency brake.
The usual VAG suspects provide power, starting with a turbocharged three cylinder 1.0-liter gasoline engine that develops 115 horsepower or a larger four-cylinder 1.5 liter that produces 150 horsepower. A 1.6-liter diesel engine with 115 horsepower is also available, as well as a powertrain that runs on compressed gas (CNG). Skoda will offer an optional DSG for an extra cost if you don’t want to change gears manually. The Kamiq will only be available with front-wheel drive. This means that AWD lovers will need to look elsewhere than Opel’s MOKKA X.
Next week, the Skoda Kamiq European specification will make its public debut at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It will then go on sale later in 2019.