Skoda Kamiq is the entry-level SUV for Skoda. This subcompact SUV was introduced in 2019 and it has grown in popularity over the past few years. Recently, Skoda released the 2023 Skoda Kamiq, which comes with more advanced features and a few improvements.
The 2023 Skoda Kamiq comes with decent standard features, a cozy interior, and an elegant exterior. However, the price has gone up and some controls are not so user-friendly. Still, it is an outstanding car with great performance and ample cabin and cargo space. So, what do you need to know about the 2023 Skoda Kamiq?
History
The Skoda Kamiq was introduced in 2019. It is based on the Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform, which it shares with the VW T-Cross, Seat Arona, Audi A1, VW Golf, VW Polo, Skoda Octavia, and many more. Even though the Kamiq is an SUV, it is only offered with front-wheel drive and the platform it uses does not support all-wheel drive.
Features of the 2023 Skoda Kamiq
Exterior
The 2023 Skoda Kamiq looks spectacular and modern. It looks better than its predecessors. Some of the exterior features that stand out are 18-inch ‘Crater’ alloy wheels, LED taillights with dynamic indicators, automatic headlights, silver roof rails, and black window surrounds.
Note that these are basic features and top trims come with added features like the panoramic roof, adaptive front light system, and full LED headlights. Besides, this car has a wheelbase of 104.4 inches, a length of 167.0 inches, a width of 70.6 inches, and a height of 61.1 inches.
Interior
The interior also looks modern and spectacular. It boasts features like an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch virtual cockpit digital cluster, interior ambient lighting, a multifunction flat-bottom steering wheel, and height-adjustable front seats with lumbar support. Nonetheless, high-end models feature sports seats, drive mode select, leather upholstery, and heated front and rear seats.
Like its predecessors, the 2023 Skoda Kamiq comes with a spacious cabin that will comfortably accommodate up to five passengers. Besides, it also has ample headroom and legroom that will fit even tall people. It has a total of 41.4 inches of front headroom, 39.5 inches of rear headroom, 56.7 inches of front legroom, and 56.1 inches of rear legroom.
Cargo space
Skoda Kamiq is more practical than most of its rivals like the VW T-Cross and Seat Arona. This unit comes with a total of 400 liters with the rear seats in place. But when they are folded, the boot space increases up to 1,395 liters. This is bigger than its main rivals by more than 100 liters, as the VW T-Cross comes with a total boot space of 1,281 liters.
Performance
The 2023 Skoda Kamiq comes with three engine options. The base engine is the 1.0-liter TSI petrol engine that delivers up to 94 hp and 129 lb-ft of torque. It also has a 1.5-liter TSI Evo petrol engine that delivers a maximum of 148 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
What’s more, it also features a 1.6 TDI diesel engine that produces up to 113 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. In terms of handling and control, the Kamiq performs better than the Seat Arona and VW T-Cross. However, its engine is loud, and it has a lot of road noise. So, it is not the best car for driving on highways.
Fuel efficiency
As expected, the Skoda Kamiq is still as efficient as its predecessors with an average fuel efficiency rating of around 48.4 mpg. Note that most trims fall between 47 mpg and 53 mpg. So, you won’t spend a lot on fuel, and it is even more economical than the VW T-Cross and Seat Arona.
Safety
This subcompact SUV received a 5-star EURO NCAP rating, which is the best in the market. Additionally, it comes with a three-year warranty that protects your car against the failure of most mechanical and electrical parts. Moreover, the car is safe for adults, children, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Price
One of the biggest challenges that Skoda Kamiq lovers have been facing is the increase in prices. Skoda has consistently increased the price of the Skoda Kamiq. All in all, the 2023 Skoda Kamiq is still an affordable SUV compared to its rivals. It has a RRP range of between $25,351 and $33,018.
More: Skoda Kamiq problems and the years you might want to avoid Skoda Kamiq.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Skoda Kamiq reliable?
Yes, the 2023 Skoda Kamiq is one of the most reliable Kamiq model years. Furthermore, it is one of the most dependable cars in its class. However, since the car is still new, it is still challenging to know whether it will maintain its reliability ratings, or they will dip down slightly.
How does the 2023 Skoda Kamiq compare to the 2023 VW T-Cross?
Both subcompact SUVs look spectacular with a modern look. They are also based on the same platform and feature similar engines. However, the 2023 VW T-Cross looks more modern and elegant than the 2023 Skoda Kamiq. On the flip side, the Kamiq looks more spectacular in the interior.
Additionally, the Kamiq is slightly faster with a larger cargo space than the VW T-Cross. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Kamiq still carries the day as it is more efficient than the latter.
How fast is the 2023 Skoda Kamiq?
The 2023 Skoda Kamiq is at par with its rivals when it comes to top speed. However, it is slightly faster but slower to accelerate than the 2023 VW T-Cross. The 2023 Skoda Kamiq has a top speed of 134 mph and it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.9 seconds. Note that this speed is based on the powerful 1.5-liter TSI petrol engine.
Bottom line
The 2023 Skoda Kamiq is one of the finest subcompact SUVs on the market. This unit is compact, practical, reliable, and drives well. It also looks elegant and modern with good safety ratings. Nonetheless, proper care and maintenance are still needed to avoid serious repairs and ensure the car lasts longer.
Overall, this car is better than most of its rivals and it is great for family or daily usage. It offers great value for money as it provides more for less. But the manufacturer should improve on wind and road noise to make it even more comfortable.