Skoda’s smallest SUV is about to get a mid-life refresh
This is our first official look at the facelifted Skoda Kamiq, due to be unveiled next month alongside the updated Scala hatchback.
Skoda says the revisions will ‘highlight the rugged appearance of the Kamiq’ and we’ve already seen prototype versions of the Kamiq testing. The revised model will once again rival the likes of the Renault Captur and Citroen C3 Aircross but also the Volkswagen T-Cross and SEAT Arona, which both utilise the same Volkswagen Group MQB A0 underpinnings as the Kamiq.
As we’ve seen on previous test cars, these new teaser images show the Kamiq will gain a redesign front and rear. The Czech firm says the Kamiq will have more ‘visual presence’, achieved by thinner headlights, a larger and more upright grille with new inserts, a silver faux diffuser on the lower bumper and restyled side air intakes. The bulging centre section of the Kamiq’s bonnet remains.
At the back there’s a new rear light shape, mirrored by the fresh set of L-shaped reflectors. There’s also a new look to the rear diffuser, finished in silver.
The lineup of engines will be retained with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI petrol kicking off the range with 94bhp or 109bhp. Above that we’ll see the 1.5-litre, four-cylinder TSI petrol with 148bhp. The diesel option went off sale last year and isn’t likely to return with the facelift. Like the new Fabia we won’t see any electrified powertrains as the platform doesn’t accommodate them.
The overall design of the cabin won’t change too much in the facelifted Kamiq, with top-spec models getting a 9.2-inch central infotainment touchscreen. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will come as standard and like last year’s facelifted Karoq, the Kamiq should be able to receive over-the-air updates.
The current Kamiq is offered in three trim levels. The cheapest SE model starts from £23,585, and we can expect the updated Kamiq to receive a bump from this price tag. Topping the range should be a Monte Carlo version with larger alloys and blacked out exterior trim features.
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Alastair Crooks
Staff writer
A keen petrol-head, Alastair Crooks has a degree in journalism and worked as a car salesman for a variety of manufacturers before joining Auto Express in Spring 2019 as a Content Editor. Now a Staff Writer, his daily duties involve tracking down the latest news and writing reviews.
Keyword: New Skoda Kamiq facelift to debut 1 August