Skoda Kamiq: small big Czech

29.08.2023 10:16

The Skoda Kamiq proves that an SUV doesn't always have to be bulky. The model occupies an elevated seating position compared to its larger counterparts and ranks for its compact size in the small car segment.

When you hear an SUV, for some reason you think of larger cars. But that’s no longer the case, because the small car segment has so far been almost crushed by the SUV mania. Not surprisingly, Skoda also has a corresponding offer for this sector with the new Kamiq. The advantage of small SUV models is more than obvious - a high seating position for a good view, which was especially liked by the fairer sex, and moderate external dimensions.

And how does this new Skoda work in everyday life? We tested it on a Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI Style with 115 hp. Because in the Kamiq, not only do tall passengers sit comfortably in the front, but they also leave enough legroom for two passengers in the back, even the height of a basketball player.

Thanks to the large adjustment range of the steering wheel, the driver will immediately find the optimal seating position. The levers and switches are easy to use, and the center display weighs information such as speed and engine speed, which can be customized. It's good that Skoda also offers the option to display the speedometer and tachometer as classic analog gauges.

The sonorous three-cylinder engine turned out to be a hybrid: on the one hand, it runs "happily", but on the other hand, it always requires more revs and laborious gear changes to progress quickly. This, in turn, is good because the 6-speed manual transmission is precisely calibrated. However, Kamiq expects the rider to be sensitive on throttle and clutch handling at launch, as the turbocharger delivers a full 200Nm of torque at 2,000Nm. rpm

In the combined driving cycle, the average fuel consumption is from six to seven and a half liters per 100 kilometers, depending on operating conditions. If you hurry, you can accelerate the Kamiq to almost 200 km / h without creating unpleasant sensations, because the car moves confidently in a straight line, without requiring constant steering wheel adjustments.

The little Czech has no weaknesses in terms of ride comfort. The optional sports suspension, which can be switched between normal and sports suspension, handles bumps with ease. It's amazing how the Kamiq handles twisty back roads - power steering assists the driver so the mini SUV feels at ease. almost like a sports car.

Although compact, the Kamiq has everything you need to be a good family car. The volume of the luggage compartment in the normal position with the backrests up at the rear is about 400 liters. But this little SUV is great when it comes to hauling long loads. In addition to folding the rear seat, the passenger backrest can also be folded down so that even the wallpapered stairs can be taken to the repair site.

Examining the price list, one can notice that the prices for 2021 in Germany (with 19% VAT) will range from 18,462 euros (“Active” with 90 hp) to 28,073 euros (1.5-liter TSI “ Style" with 150 hp and DSG gearbox). "Style" variant with 115 hp and the manual transmission sits right in the middle at €24,272.

Technical data Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI Style: