Need to be your personal individual? An actual insurgent? Effectively, this could possibly be the automotive for you.
The 2026 Skoda Kamiq Choose is a five-door hatchback designed for working the imply metropolis streets (and people equally merciless suburban roads) in consolation, however with out spending buckets of cash.
It looks as if everyone seems to be shopping for SUVs and dual-cab utes these days, however there may be nonetheless a minority of the inhabitants who realise they don’t have to drive one thing the dimensions of an condo block to work every day.
Or, not less than, the family doesn’t want a second giant car when just one individual is utilizing it more often than not.
The great individuals at Skoda name the Kamiq a small SUV, however sorry, I’m calling them out – it’s a hatchback, identical to its sibling, the Skoda Scala. It’s a mere 5 centimetres taller and has some further floor clearance over the Scala. So it’s a high-riding hatchback, at finest.
They’re making an attempt to inform you it’s a small SUV as a result of individuals need SUVs. However actually, as you’ll quickly uncover, this hatch is as a lot automotive as most individuals actually need.
Because the quirky Czech model throughout the Volkswagen Group, Skoda has primarily based the Kamiq on the corporate’s MQB A0 platform, shared with at least a dozen fashions throughout 4 manufacturers – together with the Volkswagen Polo, Audi A1, and the aforementioned Scala.
Whereas cynics will assume that is simply penny-pinching on the a part of Volkswagen Group and its manufacturers, what it actually means is that this platform has been developed to fulfill the wants of consumers spending Audi ranges of cash.
However are you actually getting Audi high quality for Skoda cash? Let’s discover out.
How a lot does the Skoda Kamiq value?
The 2026 Skoda Kamiq Choose is priced from $33,990 earlier than on-road prices, making it the best-value variant within the Kamiq lineup – and the identical value because the intently associated Skoda Scala.
| Mannequin | Drive-away value |
|---|---|
| 2026 Skoda Kamiq Choose | $33,990 |
| 2026 Skoda Kamiq Monte Carlo | $44,990 |
| 2026 Skoda Kamiq 130 Years Version | $44,990 |
Nevertheless, on the time of writing, Skoda is providing the Kamiq for $29,990 drive-away for a restricted interval – a roughly 16 per cent low cost over the standard drive-away value – making the car considerably higher worth.
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
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What’s the Skoda Kamiq like on the within?
The cabin is likely one of the finest issues concerning the Kamiq – and actually, shouldn’t that be some of the essential issues when deciding on a brand new automotive?
Shut your eyes and you can simply assume you’re sitting in a Cupra or an Audi, which isn’t any unhealthy factor. There’s a lot of crossover between Volkswagen Group fashions at this finish of the value scale, and – together with the corporate’s accountants – Skoda consumers are those who profit most.
Not solely are the supplies of excellent high quality, however the manufacturing has been accomplished to a excessive stage, so no bizarre rattles or summary elements that look as in the event that they could possibly be an issue sooner or later.
What’s extra, every part falls at hand simply and is comparatively intuitive to make use of.
A centrally positioned 8.25-inch infotainment touchscreen works nicely with the eight-speaker sound system, whereas the 8.0-inch digital show forward of the driving force relays loads of data in an simply readable format.
Ergonomics are additionally top-notch, making for a snug lengthy commute into work or a painless jaunt to the closest purchasing centre. I notably loved the seats and the pared-back material upholstery.
“That is all I want,” was the overriding thought each time I jumped behind the wheel.
My solely minor annoyance got here from the pedals, which have been too shut collectively. To not the diploma that it could flip me off shopping for one, however it raised a purple flag a handful of instances throughout my week with the Kamiq. Nevertheless, my ft are somewhat wider than most, and my foot coordination isn’t about to win me a starring function within the Bolshoi Ballet.
The marginally raised experience top meant leaping out and in of the automotive was a breeze, making the Skoda a very good possibility for these with some snort strains round their eyes or these with restricted mobility.
Like most small hatchbacks (and lightweight SUVs, in case you insist on calling it that), the again seats are positive for transporting small individuals over small distances. Something past that, and your passengers might spring a mutiny.
Boot area is 400 litres in case you’re utilizing the again seats, and 1395L with the seats down, which is about par on this phase and adequate for a couple of huge baggage and Ikea flat packs.
| Dimensions | Skoda Kamiq |
|---|---|
| Size | 4241mm |
| Width | 1793mm |
| Top | 1521mm |
| Wheelbase | 2650mm |
| Cargo capability | 400 litres (5-seat) 1395 litres (2-seat) |
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
What’s beneath the bonnet?
The Skoda Kamiq is powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine producing 85kW and 200Nm, driving the entrance wheels by way of a seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission.
| Specs | Skoda Kamiq Choose | Skoda Kamiq Monte Carlo |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L 3cyl turbo | 1.5L 4cyl turbo |
| Energy | 85kW | 110kW |
| Torque | 200Nm | 250Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed DSG | 7-speed DSG |
| Pushed wheels | Entrance-wheel drive | Entrance-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1310kg | 1340kg |
| Gasoline economic system (claimed) | 5.5L/100km | 5.6L/100km |
| Gasoline economic system (as examined) | 6.0L/100km | 6.1L/100km |
| Gasoline tank capability | 50L | 50L |
| Gasoline requirement | 95 RON | 95 RON |
| CO2 emissions | 125g/km | 126g/km |
| Emissions customary | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capability | 1200kg | 1250kg |
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
How does the Skoda Kamiq drive?
I’m sufficiently old to recollect when Volkswagen debuted the dual-clutch transmission, and it was a revelation. It suited the Mark V Golf GTI completely, and felt like the primary correct development in transmission know-how for the reason that sixth gear turned a factor.
Then, the Volkswagen Group fitted it to just about each automotive throughout all of its manufacturers.
That was round 20 years in the past, and extra conventional computerized transmissions are actually doing a greater job than VW’s DSG ever did – not less than, for commuting. And but the German auto large insists on its use, even once we realize it solely fits some forms of automobiles.
Sadly, the Kamiq ain’t considered one of them.
There’s little doubt the dual-clutch has improved markedly in current generations and is way extra user-friendly now at low speeds. However quite than being good on a regular basis – like a standard computerized – it’s nice generally, and sub-par the remainder of the time.
My second drive within the Kamiq pressured me to drag out into heavy, fast-moving visitors. No downside, I assumed, simply discover a hole.
I discovered a niche, squeezed the throttle… squeezed somewhat extra… nonetheless nothing… after which lastly the turbo kicked in and the tyres squealed like I’d proven them an inappropriate image on my telephone.
Over the approaching days, that scenario repeated itself. Completely acceptable gaps in visitors rapidly disappeared, placing me at risk and annoying the automobiles round me – or worse – just because the powertrain couldn’t sustain with my completely cheap calls for.
The 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine may be very laggy, and there’s a really actual and noticeable pause between what’s requested of it and what it delivers. None of which is helped by the dual-clutch computerized transmission.
Due to this delay, the temptation is to push down tougher on the throttle, so when the turbo does kick in, it’s now working most increase and all of the sudden the entrance wheels are breaking traction – making you seem like a idiot, and placing your licence in danger in Australia, the place wheelspin is a capital offence.
The addition of the automated start-stop function – which cuts the engine when at a cease to preserve gasoline and scale back emissions – simply will increase the delay. The precise time on a stopwatch can be minimal, however at a inexperienced gentle in peak-hour, it appears like a millennium.
The supposed benefit of a three-cylinder turbocharged engine is that it provides the facility of a four-cylinder, however with the gasoline economic system of a three-cylinder. But, in my time with the Kamiq, I solely managed 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres – virtually 22 per cent above the declare – which actually isn’t any higher than most four-cylinder engines.
Whereas a bigger engine in all probability would have given me instantaneous torque off-the-line, the turbo lag meant pushing the small engine tougher – negating the advantages.
Having mentioned that, these annoyances have been comparatively minor within the total scheme. And whereas the powertrain didn’t swimsuit my private driving fashion, I’ve little doubt there are a lot of individuals on the market who would discover it completely acceptable.
When you’re transferring, the Skoda is downright pretty. The shifts are responsive, the engine – when on increase – is responsive and robust, and the on-road dynamics are extra akin to one thing in a a lot increased value bracket.
Maybe it was as a result of I used to be having fun with my time with the Kamiq Choose a lot that these points with the powertrain have been amplified greater than they usually would have been.
Engine apart, the Kamiq truly rides and handles very well, and appears to be completely suited as a suburban commuter automotive.
The suspension is well-damped, however nonetheless supplies comparatively good response and suggestions in any respect speeds, and – together with the better ingress and egress – the raised experience top undoubtedly provides it a bonus over extra conventional small hatches.
The brakes are additionally respectable and confidence-inspiring, all of which – when you’re transferring – provides as much as a genuinely pleasant driving expertise.
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
What do you get?
The entry-level Kamiq Choose comes with most options anticipated these days, with the choice so as to add extra know-how and styling with the $5200 Signature Pack.
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Kamiq Choose tools highlights:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Auto LED headlights
- LED entrance fog lights
- LED tail-lights, rear fog lights
- LED ambient lighting
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Keyless entry and begin
- Energy-folding exterior mirrors
- Auto-dimming driver’s facet mirror
- Leather-based-wrapped steering wheel
- 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster
- 8.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wi-fi Apple CarPlay
- Wi-fi Android Auto
- 8-speaker audio
- 4 x USB-C ports
- Twin-zone local weather management
Non-obligatory Signature Pack ($5200) provides:
- Journey Help
- Lane Help with Adaptive Lane Steering
- Adaptive Cruise Management
- Electrical tailgate with hands-free operation
- Park Help
- 18-inch black alloy wheels
- Rear privateness glass
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- LED ambient lighting
- Chrome roof rails
- Chrome window surrounds
- Material upholstery (lodge inside)
Kamiq Monte Carlo provides:
- Auto LED Matrix headlights with Dynamic Gentle Help
- 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit
- 10-speaker premium audio
- Gloss black exterior trim and badging
- Aluminium pedals
- Energy-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated entrance sports activities consolation seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Panoramic glass roof with electrical sunblind
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
Is the Skoda Kamiq secure?
The Australasian New Automotive Evaluation Program – higher referred to as ANCAP – lists the Skoda Kamiq as being unrated, with its earlier five-star rating from 2019 having expired within the time between us driving the automotive and publication.
Normal security options embrace:
- 7 airbags incl. driver’s knee
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) incl. pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane Help
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Entrance and rear parking sensors
- Reversing digicam
- Tyre strain monitoring
- Driver fatigue detection
Kamiq Monte Carlo provides:
- Lane Help with Adaptive Lane Steering
- Adaptive cruise management
- Journey Help (adaptive cruise management and lane centring)
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
How a lot does the Skoda Kamiq value to run?
The Kamiq is roofed by Skoda’s seven-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee.
Skoda provides service packs of 5 or seven years for the Kamiq, costing $2990 and $3990 respectively, with upkeep required each 12 months or 15,000 kilometres (whichever comes first).
| Operating prices | Skoda Kamiq |
|---|---|
| Guarantee | 7 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | As much as 7 years (service activated) |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 kilometres |
| Capped value servicing | 7 years |
| Complete capped value service value | $3990 |
To see how the Skoda Kamiq strains up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
CarExpert’s Tackle the Skoda Kamiq
There’s loads that impresses with the Skoda Kamiq, and notably with its limited-time value of $29,990 drive-away, it comes throughout as an actual discount on this area.
Whereas I like the outside styling, it’s fairly generic by as we speak’s requirements, however that very same pared-back ethos makes the inside of the Kamiq a stunning place to spend a while in.
Arguably, the design is a technology previous now, however the high quality of the cabin is about nearly as good because it will get. Add to that the sub-$30k drive-away value, and it turns into a really likeable automotive certainly.
There are compromises, nevertheless. I discovered myself repeatedly annoyed with the powertrain, which appeared much less suited to metropolis driving than the remainder of the package deal. Gasoline economic system additionally disillusioned, and possibly was the results of my sticking my boot into the throttle as a result of I needed greater than what it was in a position to give.
Which makes me assume the Kamiq Monte Carlo with the 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine is de facto the one you need. However at $44,990 drive-away, that ain’t small change.
For what’s a 50 per cent premium for some efficiency and styling adjustments, I believe I’d quite simply pocket the cash and study to stay with the Choose’s shortcomings…
And that’s simply evaluating the Skoda Kamiq Choose to the Kamiq Monte Carlo. Contemplating it borrows greater than a sprinkling of magic from the likes of Volkswagen, Cupra, and Audi, the Skoda shines as some of the spectacular and likable automobiles on this bracket.
The Kamiq’s pricing means it’s now a part of a really unique membership, shared with one or two Japanese automobiles and a handful of Chinese language automobiles. Parking the Skoda subsequent to a few of these within the value phase makes the Kamiq seem like top-of-the-line worth automobiles available on the market – actually from European producers.
For house owners, it’s additionally flying within the face of the mid-sized SUV pattern. Generally being a insurgent isn’t using a Harley-Davidson, however cruising round in a hatchback from Czechia.
In the end, if you’d like an inexpensive automotive that doesn’t make you are feeling like a cheapskate each time you drive it – and one thing you’d be pleased to park subsequent to your in-laws’ BMW X3 at Christmas – then the Skoda Kamiq may be very onerous to look previous.
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