Skoda Kamiq review
With cars like the SEAT Arona, Suzuki Vitara and Honda HR-V selling in huge numbers, it's only been a matter of time before Skoda offered its take on the small SUV. The result is the Kamiq (pronounced ‘ka-mik’), an ultra versatile SUV that's likely to offer excellent value for money when it goes on sale later this year.
It's one of the most versatile cars of its type on the market, while also being easy to drive with a likeable (if a little bland) interior. There's little to dislike.
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In fact, as small crossovers go, the Kamiq’s a very versatile car. Space in the rear is excellent, with loads of headroom and a reasonable amount of legroom for adults. There are lots of useful features in the cabin, too, including plenty of stowage and large door pockets. A host of optional Simply Clever features such as an umbrella in the driver’s door and automatic door-edge protection adds to the feeling that the Kamiq’s a car that’s well prepared for the rigours of family life.
It’s not just versatility the Kamiq does well. While you’ll find some harsh plastics if you look for them and there are a few giveaways that this is a Skoda rather than a Volkswagen (the manual handbrake, for one…), the Kamiq’s cabin feels close to premium. There are lots of soft-touch materials and we think it has the edge over the very similar SEAT Arona. Some might suggest it’s a little on the dull side, but you don’t buy a car like this for interior flair.
Skoda’s latest infotainment system is available in three different sizes, ranging from 6.5 to 9.2 inches. Our test car was fitted with the largest (and most expensive) system which lifts the cabin significantly. It’s simple to use, although some might find its lack of conventional buttons frustrating, but the in-built navigation is clear and easy to operate. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, too. There's also an Audi-like digital instrument cluster which is pretty cool, but likely to be an expensive optional extra.
True to Volkswagen Group form, the Kamiq’s available with a choice of 1.0- and 1.5-litre petrol engines, as well as a 1.6-litre diesel. All are front-wheel drive (although Skoda claims the best ground clearance in the segment, if that's important to you), and buyers can choose from a range of five- and six- speed manual gearboxes and a seven-speed DSG auto.
It’s the 115PS 1.0-litre we’ve tested here, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox. And what a superb little engine it is. Its 115PS will be plenty powerful enough for most drivers, with enough gusto for motorway driving and tackling hills. Sure, it's a little noisy if you work it hard, but no more so than any other three-cylinder engine.
Prices start at £22,580 - undercutting many of its rivals. It’s closely related to the SEAT Arona, so is equally as practical, with a 400-litre boot, plenty of head and legroom and that desirable raised seating position.
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