The Aussie SUV boom continues unabated, and this has led many car manufacturers to explore gaps in their lineup to fill this need. Enter the new Skoda Kamiq compact SUV crossover that is set for a release here in Q1 2020. Skoda’s newly released car model was recently revealed ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, and this small SUV is only 4,241mm from bumper to bumper. Let’s take a closer look at the Kamiq and see what it has to offer.
A Quick Overview
Skoda’s new car model is designed to appeal to a younger demographic that needs an affordable compact SUV for everyday use and fun at the weekends. It is slightly smaller than the Mitsubishi ASX and the Mazda CX-3 which will be its chief rivals in the segment. As a Skoda, one can expect it to have competitive pricing, and there will be plenty of car for the money. At the front there is a new split headlight configuration and the compact boot space is 400L with the rear seats up, rising to 1,395L with the seats folded flat. Sports seats and a range of new alloy wheels ranging from 16” to 18” will also be available. Let’s take a look at some of the technology and features.
The New Technology
The level of technology present on a new car is increasingly becoming a determining factor for buyers. Aussie buyers in the compact SUV segment expect a certain level of gadgets and features, and it will not disappoint them. In the cabin, you will find a 9.2” infotainment touchscreen with Android and Apple phone mirroring. An optional 10.2” digital LCD screen can be installed to replace the analogue instrumentation entirely. There is LED ambient lighting and four USB ports strategically placed around the cabin. It has semi autonomous driving assistance systems, such as active steering, adaptive cruise control, and active lane keep assist with acceleration and braking.
Safety Equipment
For the Australian release, it’s likely that the new car model will have autonomous emergency braking (AEB) fitted as standard. There will be more safety features included, such as high beam and parking assist, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert, nine airbags, and the new driver fatigue system will be available.
Under the Bonnet
It will be available with a range of compact turbocharged engines. The most likely engine that we will see here is the 1.0L three cylinder turbo petrol that can generate 70kW and 175 Nm or 85kW and 200 Nm respectively depending on the tuning. There is also a 1.5L turbo petrol with 110kW and 250 Nm and a 1.6L turbo diesel with 85kW and 250 Nm, but we are not likely to see those engines here any time soon. The engines that we get will be paired with a five or six speed manual transmission, but it’s likely that the most popular choice here would be the DSG 7 speed automatic.
If you’re interested in a new Skoda Kamiq in Perth, contact Perth City Skoda for expert help and advice.
