Picking an SUV is never easy as there are different models and sizes to choose from. Regardless, Skoda ensured there are different SUV sizes to provide its customers with different options. The Skoda Kamiq is the smallest, followed by the Karoq, and the Kodiaq is the biggest. But which is the best Skoda SUV?
There is no best Skoda SUV as different people have different needs and tastes. Skoda Kamiq is the smallest, but it offers the best value for money. The Skoda Karoq is bigger than the Kamiq but smaller than the Kodiaq. It is also practical and great for city driving. While the Skoda Kodiaq is the biggest with a powerful engine. But how do the Skoda SUVs differentiate?
Features of Skoda SUVs
Exterior design
Skoda makes its cars with attention to detail. Therefore, all of its SUVs look spectacular and elegant. As expected, the Skoda Kodiaq is the tallest and longest of the three models. It is followed by the Karoq and lastly, the Kamiq.
The exterior design is similar across the board. These cars feature similar grilles and headlights. They have a crease that runs down the side, between the front and rear lights. However, the rear looks slightly different.
The Skoda Kamiq comes with 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. The Karoq has a wheelbase of 103.9 inches, a length of 172.5 inches, a width of 72.5 inches, and a height of 63.1 inches. While the Kodiaq has a wheelbase of 109.9 inches, a length of 184.9 inches, a width of 74.1 inches, and a height of 66.0 inches.
Interior design and cargo space
As expected, the Kamiq, Karoq, and Kodiaq feature a similar interior. Almost all the major controls are shared, as are the materials. The main touch points are covered in high-end, soft-touch materials, but lower down the plastics become cheap and scratchy. For instance, they all come with a leather multi-function steering wheel.
The Kodiaq is the biggest SUV, has a seven-seater option and it is much bigger and more spacious than the rest. It also has the biggest cargo space with its five-seater offering up to 2,065 liters. On the other hand, the Karoq and Kamiq are both five-seaters, but the Karoq is slightly more spacious and comfortable than the Kamiq.
Skoda Karoq comes with a boot space of up to 588 liters, but this can be extended up to 1,810 liters with the rear seats folded. While the Kamiq comes with a total boot space of 400 liters, which can be extended up to 1,395 liters with the rear seats folded.
Performance
The Kodiaq comes with two petrol engines and one diesel engine. The base engine is a 1.5-liter petrol engine that delivers up to 150 hp, followed by a 2.0-liter petrol engine with up to 242 hp. The 2.0-liter TDI engine delivers up to 237 hp.
The Karoq on the other hand comes with six petrol engine options: 1.0-liter, 1.2-liter, 1.4-liter, 1.5-liter, 1.6-liter, and 2.0-liter engines; and two diesel options: 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter TDI engines. The 2.0-liter petrol engine is the most powerful with 187 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
The Kamiq boasts two petrol engines and one diesel engine. The base engine is a 1.0-liter petrol engine with up to 94 hp and 129 lb-ft of torque. The most powerful engine is the 1.5-liter petrol engine with 148 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The 1.6-liter diesel engine produces up to 113 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel efficiency
The Skoda Kamiq is the most efficient SUV in the Skoda lineup. It has a fuel efficiency rating that ranges between 47 mpg and 53 mpg. It is closely followed by the Karoq with an efficiency rating that falls between 35 mpg to 49 mpg. The least efficient Skoda SUV is the Kodiaq with an efficiency rating that ranges between 33 mpg and 53 mpg.
Safety
All the Skoda SUVs scored a full five stars when crash tested by EURO NCAP, and their scores are almost similar. So, they are safe cars. Besides, since they are all made on Volkswagen Group platforms, they can be relied on. What’s more, they come with a three-year 60,000-mile warranty, which is good.
Price
Of course, the cheapest Skoda SUV is the Skoda Kamiq with a base price of $27,597. While the base price for the Skoda Karoq is $35,315, and that of the Kodiaq is $41,678. Note that prices can vary with location, model year, and trim option.
FAQ
Is Skoda reliable?
Yes, Skoda produces some of the most reliable cars on the market. Most of its cars register fewer issues and they are quite affordable to maintain compared to other high-end SUVs. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t have issues.
What are the common problems with Skoda SUVs?
Before you invest in any Skoda SUV, it is crucial to know some of the issues that you will encounter. Some of the common problems with Skoda models are gearbox issues, turbocharger problems, leaks inside the car, headlamp issues, timing chain problems, excessive oil usage, and blocked DPF.
How long do Skoda SUVs last?
Like most Skoda models, Skoda SUVs will likely last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. But with proper care and maintenance, these SUVs can clock more than 200k miles. Note that the Skoda Karoq is the most reliable of the three Skoda SUVs.
Does Skoda offer an electric SUV?
Yes, Skoda offers only one electric SUV now, which is the Skoda Enyaq iV. This car is beautifully designed and fun to drive. It also features a powerful battery with a range of between 312 and 329 miles.
Conclusion
Whether you select Skoda Kamiq, Karoq, or Kodiaq, you will get a reliable and well-performing car. They are also practical and comfortable. However, it is vital to select an SUV that best suits your needs. The Skoda Kamiq is the smallest and provides the best value for money. On the other hand, the Karoq is best suited for people who don’t desire a very compact or big SUV. Finally, the Kodiaq is the best for families, and it is the best performing.
