Skoda describes the European Kamiq as a city SUV. That’s just a fancy way of saying that the Kamiq is more of a crossover than a full-fledged, hunkered-up SUV. Call it whatever you want to but the fact of the matter is simple – the Kamiq is one of the most important models for the Czech brand. In its hierarchy tree, the Kamiq will sit under the Karoq SUV. In other words, the Kamiq becomes the entry-level point for those who want a high-riding car with a Skoda badge on it.

Hang on… European Kamiq?

Yes. Skoda has already used the Kamiq nameplate on a compact SUV that it exclusively introduced in China last year. The new Kamiq is for the European market and, if you compare it with the Chinese version, it looks radically different.

What’s it made of?

The Skoda Kamiq is underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform. As far as design goes, the Kamiq looks like the production version of the Vision X Concept that Skoda unwrapped during last year’s Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS). At the front, the black grille is flanked by LED DRLs and just beneath those are the main headlamp enclosures. Kamiq’s side profile reveals the sloping roofline, a couple of definitive character lines and sporty alloy wheels, which range from 16 to 18 inches. The rear of the crossover feature LED-powered C-shaped taillamps and a faux diffuser to complement the side skirts and the front splitter.

All that is great but is there anything out of the ordinary?

You can tell that we’ve made that question up! Well, the answer is yes! The Kamiq will become Skoda’s first model to not only feature a split headlamp design but also the only model in the company’s history to feature dynamic front and rear indicators. Skoda will also offer the convenience of a powered tailgate as an optional extra.

Okay. What about the interiors?

Skoda fans will tell you that the interiors look remarkably similar to that of the Scala hatchback. Well, they are. In terms of features, the dashboard’s centre part is dominated by a free-standing, always-online, 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Just behind the multifunction steering wheel, there’s an optional 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit (fully-digital instrument cluster). Apart from those, the cabin’s atmosphere can be changed using the three-colour (copper, red and white) ambient lighting system. For those who want more in their Kamiq’s package, can optionally opt for heated steering, heated windscreen, heated seats in the front and back and a 405-watt, 10-speaker Skoda Sound System.

Do we have any numbers to play with?

Of course! With a wheelbase measuring 2,651mm, the Skoda Kamiq stretches 4,241mm in length, 1,793mm in width and 1,531mm in height. With all the seats erect, the boot capacity is 400 litres. But with the rear seats folded down, the Kamiq can gulp 1,395 litres of stuff. As an optional extra, Skoda will also give the customers the opportunity to fold the back of the front seat down, which should free up enough space to carry things measuring up to 2,447mm in length.

Cool! What about the powertrains?

Skoda will offer a total of five engine options with the Kamiq. Apart from being Euro 6d-Temp compliant, they all will feature mild-hybrid systems and start/stop technology. Here are the details:

1. 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder TSI
   • Power/Torque: 95PS/175Nm
   • Transmission options: 5-speed manual
2. 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder TSI
   • Power/Torque: 115PS/200Nm
   • Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG
3. 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder TSI (with cylinder deactivation tech)
   • Power/Torque: 150PS/250Nm
   • Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG
4. 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder TDI
   • Power/Torque: 115PS/250Nm
   • Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG
5. 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder G-TEC (CNG-ready)
   • Power/Torque: 90PS/160Nm
   • Transmission options: 6-speed manual

To make the Kamiq more fun to drive, Skoda will offer Sport Chassis Control as an optional extra. It sits 10mm lower than the standard chassis and brings in multiple drive models such as Sport, Eco and Individual. The options list also includes an underbody protection package which will come in handy on rougher terrains.

Safety?

That’s ticked too! As standard, the crossover will come with features like City Emergency Brake, Predictive Pedestrian Protection and Lane Assist. However, the level of safety for passengers can be increased with optional gizmos like Adaptive Cruise Control, Fatigue Alert for the driver, Crew Protect Assist, Side Assist, rear-view camera, Park Assist, Manoeuvre Assist and up to 9 airbags. There’s a lot of assisting going on there. Oh, that’s right! This is what Skoda was talking about when it started the teaser campaign for the Kamiq last month.

At the upcoming 2019 GIMS, the Skoda Kamiq will make its world premiere. Shortly after it goes on sale in Europe, it will become the cornerstone for Skoda India’s compact SUV which, under the India 2.0 project, is due sometime next year. Exciting times ahead? You bet!