Skoda shows off new Kamiq compact crossover

Skoda has added a third model to its successful SUV portfolio for the European market – the Skoda Kamiq – entering the rapidly growing city or small SUV segment for the first time.

The Kamiq blends the typical advantages of this segment such as increased ground clearance and a raised seat position with the agility of a compact car and Skoda’s characteristic emotive design.

With state-of-the-art assistance and infotainment systems, a generous amount of space and numerous Simply Clever features, the new Kamiq equally fulfils the needs of both family and lifestyle-oriented customers in true Skoda style.

Skoda Auto CEO Bernhard Maier said: “By launching the Skoda Kamiq, we are consistently pressing ahead with our SUV campaign and are perfectly rounding off our offering on the European market at the lower end. I am convinced that the Kamiq will make a strong debut in the dynamic, growing city SUV segment – with its emotive design, state-of-the-art assistance systems and generous amount of space, it has everything it needs to win over a great number of new customers.”

Skoda Ireland Head of Marketing and Product Ray Leddy commented: “The Skoda Kamiq will be available to order and test drive in Irish showrooms from 1 November. The Kamiq is another excellent product from Skoda with demand expected to outstrip supply in many markets including Ireland. We would advise customers to order early to avoid disappointment. Prices are yet to be confirmed but are expected to be competitive.”

Three TSI petrol engines with cylinder capacities of 1.0 or 1.5 l and a 1.6 litre TDI produce between 70 and 110kW (95 to 150 BHP). The engines can be coupled with a five or six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG; they all fulfil the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard.

The Kamiq features a newly developed chassis offering 39mm more ground clearance than the Scala hatchback.

Based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A0 platform, the Kamiq offers the highest level of active and passive safety.

It is equipped with up to nine airbags including a driver knee airbag and side airbags in the rear, and features state-of-the-art assistance systems as well as plenty of space.

It is 4,241mm long, 1,793mm wide and has a height of 1,553mm (including roof rails). Almost 80 per cent of its bodywork consists of high-strength and hot-formed steel. LED headlights and tail lights come as standard, whilst a full LED version offering AFS and dynamic front and rear indicators is standard on Style versions.

Standard equipment includes lane assist, front assist with city emergency brake and predictive pedestrian protection, and multi-collision brake.