Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI DSG Test
- Originally slated for discontinuation,the Skoda Kamiq has been given a new lease on life.
- Early in 2023, projections suggested the Kamiq and Fabia models would cease production within two years due to stringent Euro 7 emission standards.
- While an electrified drive system could offer advantages in certain driving conditions,such as stop-and-go traffic,the current turbocharged three-cylinder engine,especially the 85 kW variant,is finely tuned. Its operation is...
Skoda Kamiq Survives: A Review of the Compact SUV
Originally slated for discontinuation,the Skoda Kamiq has been given a new lease on life. plans to retire the small SUV were reassessed in Mladá Boleslav, Czech Republic, due to sustained demand for internal combustion engines and a revised EURO 7 standard. The Kamiq now stands as the second best-selling vehicle in the Czech Republic, trailing only the Octavia.
Kamiq’s Continued Production
Early in 2023, projections suggested the Kamiq and Fabia models would cease production within two years due to stringent Euro 7 emission standards. However, with a more lenient standard and persistent demand for combustion engines, the MQB A0 platform vehicles are expected to remain in production until the end of the decade. Klaus Zellmer,Skoda Auto chief,indicated earlier this year that a hybrid version is also in growth.
Engine Performance and Driving Experience
While an electrified drive system could offer advantages in certain driving conditions,such as stop-and-go traffic,the current turbocharged three-cylinder engine,especially the 85 kW variant,is finely tuned. Its operation is remarkably refined for a three-cylinder engine, noticeable primarily when cold or during steep inclines. At cruising speeds, engine noise is minimal, with wind and tire noise being more prominent.
The test vehicle, finished in an orange metallic paint (a 22,300 crowns option), featured a three-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The transmission and engine work well together, maintaining the engine within an efficient range, resulting in favorable fuel consumption for a non-electric vehicle. Manual gear changes are possible via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Acceleration is responsive, remaining adequate even at Czech highway speed limits. Any prior acceleration issues with the Kamiq DSG were addressed in last year’s facelift.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel consumption averages around 5 liters per 100 kilometers in urban and suburban environments. Highway driving results in consumption around 7 liters per 100 kilometers, slightly exceeding that figure at higher speeds. The overall average during testing, covering more than 700 kilometers, was 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers. This is approximately 0.5 to 0.8 liters higher than the manufacturer’s stated figures.
Ride and Handling
The chassis provides a pleasant and stable ride. It effectively absorbs minor road imperfections, though notable transverse unevenness can be felt.The steering offers well-weighted assistance, striking a balance between ease of use and feedback. The steering wheel’s shape and thickness contribute to a positive driving experience, although the two-spoke design may take some getting used to.
Interior and Technology
The interior provides a familiar feel, particularly for those accustomed to older Skoda models with physical buttons. The air conditioning system features a dedicated panel with knobs and buttons for adjusting temperature and fan speed.
The gear selector is a customary lever, and the handbrake is mechanically operated. The test vehicle included the optional 9.2-inch infotainment system with integrated navigation. While the graphics are clear, response times could be improved, particularly with wireless Android Auto connectivity.
The upgraded multimedia package includes a 10-inch digital instrument cluster. The display is clear, customizable, and can project navigation facts.
Interior space and Practicality
Skoda is known for its spacious interiors, and the Kamiq is no exception, particularly in the rear seats. However, fitting three adults in the back can be challenging due to the prominent central tunnel, further accentuated by a storage shelf in the test vehicle.
The Kamiq’s length of 4,241 mm results in a shorter cargo area. the trunk offers a volume of 400 liters. practical features include storage compartments and hooks within the luggage area.
Compared to the scala, the Kamiq offers a higher driving position and improved maneuverability due to its shorter rear overhang, making it well-suited for urban environments. Visibility is excellent in all directions.
Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI DSG Top Selection: Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Turbocharged three-cylinder petrol, 999 cm3, front-wheel drive |
| Power | 85 kW / 115 hp |
| Torque | 200 Nm |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 10.2 seconds |
| Average Consumption | 5.6 – 5.9 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 127 - 135 g/km |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4241/1793/1531 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2639 mm |
| Luggage Compartment volume | 400 / 1395 liters |
| Price (Starting From) | 579,900 CZK |
Pricing and Available Versions
The base Skoda Kamiq, equipped with a 70 kW three-cylinder TSI engine and manual transmission, is priced at 479,900 crowns. The tested 85 kW version is an additional 20,000 crowns. The DSG transmission is available starting with the Top Selection trim, priced from 579,900 crowns. The vehicle tested, with all options included, costs 727,600 crowns.
Skoda Kamiq Trim levels: Key Features
- Kamiq top Selection (579,900 CZK): Dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch radio with eight speakers, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, basic 8-inch virtual cockpit, heated leather steering wheel, heated front seats, automatic wipers, LED front and rear lights, rear parking sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels.
- Optional Extras (147,700 CZK): 9.2-inch multimedia system with navigation, 10-inch digital cockpit, automatic parking assist, reversing camera, electric tailgate, driving mode selection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring.
- Kamiq 130 Years Edition: Manual air conditioning, 8-inch radio, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, basic virtual cockpit, heated front seats, rear parking sensors and camera, LED front and rear lights, 16-inch alloy wheels.
- Kamiq 130 Years Premium Edition: Blind spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, 10-inch digital cockpit, keyless entry and start, front parking sensors, electric tailgate, heated steering wheel, 17-inch alloy wheels.
Skoda offers special “130 Years” editions to commemorate the company’s anniversary. The base “130 Years” edition, starting at 469,900 crowns with a 70 kW engine, offers enhanced equipment compared to the standard base model. The Kamiq 130 Years with the more powerful engine and automatic transmission costs 529,900 crowns, with the Premium version adding an additional 40,000 crowns.
HereS a Q&A-style blog post analyzing the Skoda Kamiq, designed to provide value, engage the reader, and optimize for search engines:
Skoda Kamiq: Your Burning Questions Answered About This compact SUV
The Skoda kamiq has carved a niche for itself in the competitive compact SUV market. Originally facing potential discontinuation, it’s now thriving. But is it the right car for you? Let’s dive in, answering your most pressing questions and giving you all the details you need.
Q: What’s the story behind the Skoda Kamiq’s survival?
A: Initially, the Kamiq, along with the Fabia, was slated for discontinuation. This was largely due to the stringent Euro 7 emission standards. Though, Skoda reassessed the situation due to continued strong demand for internal combustion engines and a more lenient interpretation of the EURO 7 regulations. The Kamiq’s popularity in the Czech Republic also played a meaningful role. It’s now the second best-selling vehicle there, trailing only the Octavia. This sustained demand led to the decision to keep the Kamiq in production.
Q: When is the Skoda Kamiq expected to be discontinued?
A: While originally facing an uncertain future, the Kamiq is now expected to remain in production until the end of the decade. This extension is, in part, due to the revised Euro 7 standards and ongoing consumer interest in combustion engine vehicles.
Q: What engine options are available in the Skoda Kamiq?
A: The article focuses on the 1.0 TSI petrol engine. The review highlights the efficiency of the turbocharged three-cylinder engine, specifically the 85 kW (115 hp) variant. It is important to note that there is also a 70 kW (95 hp) version of the 1.0 TSI available.
Q: How does the 1.0 TSI engine perform in the Kamiq?
A: The turbocharged three-cylinder engine is surprisingly refined, especially for a three-cylinder design. The reviewer noted that while it can be slightly more noticeable when cold or tackling steep inclines, at cruising speed, the engine noise is minimal, with wind and tire noise being more prominent. Acceleration is responsive, proving adequate even on Czech highways.
Q: What’s the driving experience like with the Kamiq’s transmission?
A: The test vehicle featured a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission,which the reviewer found to work well with the engine. It maintains the engine within an efficient range to maximize fuel economy. Manual gear changes are possible via the steering wheel-mounted paddles, offering a more engaging driving experience when desired.
Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the Kamiq?
A: In urban and suburban settings,the Kamiq averages around 5 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 47 mpg). On the highway, expect around 7 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 34 mpg), with consumption increasing at higher speeds.The overall average during the test, which covered over 700 kilometers, was 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 37 mpg).This is slightly higher than the manufacturer’s stated figures, likely due to real-world driving conditions.
Q: How does the Kamiq handle on the road?
A: The chassis provides a pleasant and stable ride, effectively absorbing minor road imperfections. However, some transverse unevenness can be felt. The steering is well-weighted,offering a good balance of ease of use and feedback.The steering wheel’s shape and thickness contribute to a positive experience, though the two-spoke design might take some getting used to.
Q: what is the interior like in the Skoda Kamiq?
A: The interior offers a familiar feel, especially for those accustomed to older Skoda models with physical buttons for functions like air conditioning. The test vehicle included the optional 9.2-inch infotainment system which has clear graphics, but response times could be improved, especially with wireless Android Auto connectivity. The instrument cluster is a 10-inch digital display, offering customization and navigation integration.
Q: How spacious is the Kamiq’s interior and what about the cargo area?
A: Skoda is known for spacious interiors, and the Kamiq is no exception, particularly for rear-seat passengers. However, fitting three adults in the back can be challenging due to the prominent central tunnel, which could be worsened by a storage shelf in the test vehicle. The Kamiq offers a shorter cargo area due to its length of 4,241 mm. The trunk has a volume of 400 liters, and the car has practical features like storage compartments and hooks.
Q: How does the Kamiq compare to the Skoda Scala in terms of driving position and maneuverability?
A: The Kamiq offers a higher