What's the news?
This is the Skoda Kamiq, the company's new small crossover that joins the SUV range that already includes the larger Karoq and Kodiaq. It enters a highly competitive segment of the market and will go up against models like the Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 and SEAT Arona to name but a few.
Exterior
Skoda has kept the Kamiq true to the Vision X concept car that previewed it, and the design continues and evolves from what we've already seen in the company's other SUV models. The Kamiq measures in at 4,231mm in length, is 1,793mm wide and it has a long wheelbase of 2,651mm. That last number (the distance between the front and rear axles) is important as it results in one of the most generous passenger spaces in the segment. Skoda claims that its rear passenger kneeroom is even greater than that in the larger Karoq.
Externally, the separate headlight and upper LED daytime running light keeps the familiar Skoda image, but makes the Kamiq stand out. As part of the modern look, the daytime running lights also incorporate dynamic indicators that give the impression of movement as they operate.
The Kamiq's bodywork has many of the usual Skoda design traits that includes some sharp creases along the car's shoulder line and a clamshell-style bonnet. Unlike some other crossovers in the class, it isn't covered in rugged looking plastic moulding, but it does get a modest amount of ground clearance (37mm more than the Scala it shares some of its mechanical underpinnings with); though it's not a full-on SUV. We'd hazard a guess that Skoda will introduce a more substantial looking Scout version in the future.
Interior
When it comes to the interior of the Kamiq, Skoda has played it safe with the overall design, with passenger and luggage space being at the forefront of the layout. Up front there will be the option of a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and up to a 9.2-inch infotainment screen. That will feature the latest in connected technology including the possibility of over-the-air updates, remote access via a smartphone app and a variety of other connected services. Skoda is also making USB-C the standard for its cars, and buyers will also be able to specify wireless charging.
The boot space measures in at 400 litres, making it one of the largest in the class and, with the rear seats folded, this volume increases to 1,395 litres. Optionally, the front passenger seat can also be folded flat to accommodate longer items.
Mechanicals
When the Skoda Kamiq goes on sale, buyers will have the choice of two petrol engines and one diesel option. The petrol units will consist of a turbocharged 1.0-litre producing 115hp and a more powerful 1.5-litre TSI EVO engine producing 150hp with active cylinder technology to help conserve fuel. On the diesel front there is a 1.6-litre turbocharged unit producing 115hp. All versions will be front-wheel drive and both manual and automatic transmissions will be available.
Skoda is remaining tight-lipped at the prospect of an RS version of the Kamiq, but in the meantime, there will be a Sports Chassis Control option that reduces the ride height by 10mm and adds adjustable dampers.
Skoda will also make the Kamiq available with all its latest driver assistance systems, including Front and Lane Assist, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, driver alert and multi-collision braking.
Anything else?
The Skoda Kamiq will arrive in Ireland towards the end of 2019 and pricing will be confirmed closer to that time. Its world debut is to take place at the Geneva Motor Show next month.