Compact crossovers remain very popular among drivers, not just in Singapore, but globally.
And if you’re in the market for one, your list of contenders to check out just grew longer, thanks to the arrival of the Skoda Kamiq.
Here are five things you need to know about this model from the Volkswagen-owned Czech carmaker. It is available in three different trim levels: Ambition, Style and Monte Carlo.
IT IS SKODA’S ENTRY-LEVEL CROSSOVER IN SINGAPORE.
As such, the Kamiq is also the smallest crossover in Skoda’s lineup. Its two larger siblings are the Karoq and Kodiaq. The latter is a seven-seater SUV.
Size-wise, the Kamiq is larger than its “cousin”, the Volkswagen T-Cross. Both models are underpinned by the same platform.
“KAMIQ” IS AN INUIT WORD.
The word “kamiq” is from the language of the Inuit people who reside in northern Canada and Greenland. It means “something that fits perfectly in every situation.”
THE SKODA KAMIQ IS ONLY FRONT-WHEEL-DRIVE.
As the smallest SUV in Skoda’s range, the Kamiq is primarily designed as an urban runabout. Therefore, it will not be available with all-wheel-drive, as its drivers are unlikely to venture away from paved roads.
Not having all-wheel-drive in this case is advantageous, since the Kamiq will be lighter and have better fuel efficiency.
THE KAMIQ IS THE FIRST SKODA WITH DYNAMIC INDICATORS.
Those fancy dynamic indicators, which have lights “running” from one side to another, were first seen on Audi models. Other premium brands soon followed suit.
It’s nice to see features from luxury models eventually appearing on less expensive ones. The trickling down of technology – especially safety features – is a boon for buyers.
THE KAMIQ HAS 26 LITRES OF CABIN STOWAGE SPACE.
Everyone wants more room to store their barang-barang and designers know this. So, the Kamiq has a total of 26 litres of storage space for various items.
The front door bins can each hold a 1.5-litre bottle of water, while the rear bins can each accommodate a 0.5-litre bottle. Boot volume is 400 litres with the rear seats in place, and 1395 litres when the seat backs are folded.
SPECIFICATIONS
Skoda Kamiq 1.5 (A)
ENGINE 1498cc, 16-valves, inline-4, turbocharged
MAX POWER 148hp (110kW, 150PS) at 5000-6000rpm
MAX TORQUE 250Nm at 1500-3500rpm
GEARBOX 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100KM/H 8.3 seconds
TOP SPEED 211km/h
CONSUMPTION 17.9km/L (combined)
PRICE INCL. COE From $119,900 (no VES rebate/surcharge)
AGENT Skoda Singapore
Click here to find out more about the Skoda Kamiq
Skoda Kamiq launched in Singapore
We review the Volkswagen T-Cross here