A series of updates to the Skoda Scala and Kamiq models have been unveiled, with both cars receiving minor changes to their exterior design and gaining more safety equipment. The Kamiq sports a new, more upright grille, and its split headlights have new proportions, with the upper LED element becoming slimmer and the larger main headlight unit increasing in size. Skoda is also adding the option of LED Matrix headlights on the Kamiq for the first time. Designers have also changed the front bumper, adding a more rugged-looking splitter to emphasise the car's SUV character. At the back are slight changes to the design of the lights, and the LED fog lamps have a new integration with the bumper.
Visual changes to the Skoda Scala include new headlights that move away from the triangular shape of the outgoing model in favour of sleeker-looking units. The grille and bumper get a new design for a more dynamic look. Buyers will also be able to specify LED Matrix headlights. The large glass panel remains on the boot lid and now carries the brand's new wordmark. For the first time, the Scala and Kamiq are available with a 'virtual pedal' or kick function for the electrically operated tailgate - handy if your hands are full.
The interior of the Skoda Scala receives minor improvements, such as a new climate control panel with two buttons for controlling fan speed. There is an 8-inch driver display and 8.25-inch touchscreen as standard, with optional upgrades of a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit and a 9.2-inch touchscreen. New trim features include copper-coloured inserts across the front of the dashboard and along the doors, which feature black fabric inserts. There is a similar arrangement for the displays within the Kamiq, including upgrades to larger items. Skoda uses chrome inserts for the Kamiq's interior to further differentiate it from the Scala.
Skoda is increasing the amount of recycled plastic material it uses in its cars, and these parts include the water reservoir for the windscreen and wheel arch linings. Within the cabin, Skoda uses natural plant fibres from hemp and kenaf in the door trim panels and the structure of the roof lining. The upholstery, flooring and floor mats also use recycled fabrics.
Safety kit also features strongly in both the Kamiq and Scala models, with all versions getting driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags and curtain airbags as standard, with rear side and knee airbags as an option. Assistance systems coming as standard include lane assist, traffic sign recognition, front assist with pedestrian monitor and rear parking sensors. Further available systems include adaptive lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and side assist.
Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, says: "This update of the Scala and Kamiq places a lot of emphasis on safety. The extensive safety equipment now also includes TOP LED Matrix headlights as an option - for the first time in these models. In line with the international Vision Zero initiative, Škoda Auto wants to actively contribute to reducing the number of road traffic fatalities. The upgraded Kamiq and Scala model series thus offer a wide range of advanced assistance systems, some of which are usually seen in higher segments."
Skoda will continue offering a range of three petrol engines with both models based on the efficient evo2 generation. The base engine is a 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder producing 95hp and paired with a five-speed manual transmission. A 115hp version of this engine gets a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Those same two transmission options are also available with the range-topping 150hp 1.5-litre TSI four-cylinder engine, which includes Active Cylinder Technology that automatically switches off its two middle cylinders when the engine is under less load to save fuel.