It’s Tuesday, so that must mean another new SUV is being released. All joking aside, we’re a fan of all of the Skoda SUV range. Each one has that little bit of extra something that makes them special, and enjoyable.
But Škoda NZ decided they needed a compact SUV to complete their range, and so we have the Kamiq coming to New Zealand. According to Škoda, the Kamiq blends the typical advantages of this segment such as increased ground clearance and a raised seat position with the agility of a compact car, topped off with Škoda’s characteristic emotive design.
The all-new Kamiq continues the SUV design language of the KODIAQ and KAROQ SUVs, whilst the split headlights, which feature daytime running lights above the main headlights, create new, distinctive visual highlights. At 4,241 mm long, the Škoda Kamiq is considerably more compact than both of its bigger SUV siblings.
The name Kamiq comes from the language of the Inuit people living in northern Canada and Greenland and translates to ‘something that fits perfectly in every situation’. The Kamiq’s name also begins with the letter K and ends in a Q, and thereby continuing the homogenous nomenclature of the Škoda SUV models.
Stepping into a rapidly growing segment, the Kamiq marks the arrival of the third out of four promised SUV launches for Škoda’s range, with the launch timing for the fourth electric SUV, the ENYAQ, still to be confirmed. “Demand for SUVs in New Zealand is continuously increasing. At present, SUVs account for 64% of car sales, and last year the booming compact SUV segment saw an increase of 16%. The Kamiq is set to become a future pillar of our Škoda model range in this growing segment and will harness further potential for growth”, says Rodney Gillard, Škoda New Zealand General Manager.
The Kamiq is exclusively available with front-wheel drive.
Highlights of the new Škoda Kamiq at a glance:
Exterior
There’s an elevated ground clearance, rugged details and large wheels available in 16 to 18 inch sizes. The Škoda SUV family resemblance is visible at first glance, yet Škoda says some other features set the Kamiq’s design apart: for example, the precisely sculptured bonnet, which lends the Kamiq a unique look and underlines its own identity. It is the first Škoda to have split LED headlights, daytime running lights and dynamic rear indicators as standard, with dynamic front indicators available in the full LED version. A panoramic roof is standard on the Monte Carlo model. Like all of the manufacturer’s new models, the tailgate confidently bears ‘Škoda’ in block lettering instead of the Škoda logo.
Interior
The Kamiq is the second Škoda to incorporate the new interior concept. The elevated seat position and claimed generous amount of space in the compact SUV make getting into and out of the car more convenient and provide a great overall view, as well as improved ergonomics. In the rear, the Kamiq’s headroom of 1,003mm, elbow room of 1,425mm and kneeroom of 73mm are all records in the segment, says Škoda. The boot has a capacity of 400L, which can be increased to 1,395L by folding down the asymmetrically split back seat (60:40) that features an optional centre armrest. Clever storage compartments in the interior provide an extra 26L of space for stowing items.
A pleasant interior atmosphere is created by the soft materials on the dashboard and front door trims, as well as new seat designs and covers – also made of the exquisite Suedia microfibre. Should the customer wish, the Kamiq can be further customised with decorative trims, contrasting stitching, ambient lighting and a Dynamic package. The level of comfort is boosted with Climatronic air conditioning available in the Ambition + and Monte Carlo, with optional electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a heated windscreen and steering wheel. The transmitter signal used by the KESSY keyless entry system automatically switches off after 15 minutes of no movement, thereby increasing security.
Engines and chassis
Two TSI petrol engines are available, with cylinder capacities of 1.0 or 1.5L produce between 85 and 110kW, and are coupled with a 7-speed DSG transmission. The Kamiq features a newly developed chassis offering 39mm more ground clearance than the SCALA. The Kamiq Monte Carlo comes with additional Sport Chassis Control – a 15-mm lower sports chassis that can have its characteristics switched between Normal and Sport using Driving Mode Select. Sport Chassis Control can optionally be fitted to the Ambition models.
Bodywork, safety and assistance systems
Being based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A0 platform, the Kamiq offers the highest level of active and passive safety features. It is equipped with up to nine airbags, including a driver knee airbag and side airbags in the rear, and features state-of-the-art assistance systems as well as plenty of space. It is 4,241mm long, 1,793mm wide and has a height of 1,553mm (including roof rails). Almost 80 per cent of its bodywork consists of high strength and hot-formed steel. LED headlights, taillights and dynamic rear indicators come as standard, whilst a full LED version offering AFS and dynamic front indicators is standard on the Monte Carlo. Standard equipment includes Lane Assist, Front Assist with City Emergency Brake, Driver Fatigue Alert, and Cruise Control.
Infotainment and connectivity
The Swing, Bolero and Amundsen systems are from the third generation of Volkswagen Group’s modular infotainment matrix, offer displays measuring from 6.5 to 9.2 inches and can be equipped with the Škoda Sound System featuring ten speakers as an optional extra. The Kamiq offers built-in SmartLink technology for connecting devices via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or MirrorLink and up to two USB-C ports in the front and two in the rear.
Simply Clever features
In typical Škoda style, a wealth of Simply Clever features makes everyday life that little bit easier in the new Kamiq. The optional, automatic door-edge protection cannot be found anywhere else in the compact SUV segment. An electric tailgate including Tap-To-Close function is also available. The umbrella compartment (including umbrella) in the driver’s door, ice scraper in the fuel filler flap with a tyre tread depth gauge and the integrated funnel in the lid of the windscreen washer tank are all Simply Clever.
Škoda Kamiq Model Range:
Kamiq Ambition
TSI 85KW, 7 Speed DSG
MRP excl orc from $30,990
Kamiq Ambition+
TSI 110KW, 7 Speed DSG
MRP excl orc from $36,990
Kamiq Monte Carlo
TSI 110KW, 7 Speed DSG
MRP excl orc TBC
Initial stock of the Ambition models is expected to be available from April, with the Monte Carlo stock becoming available in July.
