Kamiq cuts it as a compact SUV

SKODA is expanding its SUV line-up with the launch of a compact model called the Kamiq that the Czech car maker is describing as “a car for the urban jungle”.

It’s front-wheel drive only, comes with a choice of 1.0-litre or 1.5 petrol engines or a 1.6-litre diesel and is likely to be priced from under £19,000 when it arrives later in the year.

The Kamiq is also the first Skoda to feature a new-look front which includes a separate strip of daytime running lights above the main headlights – a trait that is set to make its way on to other Skoda SUVs.

Another first for the brand are so-called dynamic indicators front and rear and that all helps the Kamiq stand out.

At 4.24 metres long – that’s 13ft 11ins – it is almost six inches shorter than Skoda’s mediumsized Karoq model and similar in proportions to the Volkswagen T-Roc.

With a boot capacity of 400 litres it’s not quite as large as the T-Roc but comes with extra space in the rear seats that makes it a true five seater.

It also has Skoda’s new-look interior first seen on the Scala hatchback which is clean cut, stylish and easy to use.

The 1.0-litre engines are three cylinder and come with either 95 or 115ps on tap. The 1.5 develops 150ps while the diesels are also 115ps blocks.

While the diesels are the most economical with an official fuel return rated at almost 59 to the gallon Skoda expects its main sellers in the UK will be petrol models and those are rated at between 51 and 43mpg on the new WLTP tests. Emissions are as low as 120g/km.

Technology included Skoda’s Amundsen sat nav system mated to a 9.2-inch touchscreen while the DSG model also had the new digitised instrument panel which allows for the nav display to be screened in front of the driver among other functions.

It’s smart and contemporary and while connectivity is fully smartphone compatible the Kamiq comes with the latest USB ports which means an adapter has to be used for older phones.

However, on the security front, on keyless entry cars Skoda has fitted a system which disables the operation after 15 minutes to combat car thieves.

And being a Skoda the Kamiq is festooned with plenty of the brand’s Simply Clever features such as an ice scraper inside the fuel filler cap and an umbrella concealed in the side of the driver’s door.

Sitting on 17-inch wheels – 16 and 18-inch rims are also available – the Kamiq looks the part and the new nose suits it to a tee. The Kamiq also has the ability to carry loads up to almost 2.5 metres in length with the seats folded – and in this class that is a bonus.

As so-called urban SUVs go the Kamiq has plenty of potential and like all other Skodas it is likely to be very competitive.