Smaller 1.0-litre powerplant returns to small Czech SUV range, range but doesn’t really lower price
Three-cylinder power has returned to the Skoda Kamiq line-up as the Czech brand revamps its local compact SUV range for the 2023 model year.
After a brief sabbatical from Australian showrooms, the familiar turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine is back in all its glory; still churning out a competitive 85kW/200Nm and sipping 5.4L/100km of fuel on the combined cycle.
Only powering the range-opening 85TSI Style variant, the little three-banger is paired exclusively to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission this time around, marking the end for the entry-level six-speed manual.
According to Skoda, this was “in response to overwhelming customer preference” for the DCT auto.
As such, the MY23 range shake-up has done little to impact the Skoda Kamiq range’s starting price, with the returning Style checking into local showrooms from $37,990 drive-away – replacing the $35,690 plus on-roads Ambition automatic.
Standard equipment on the ‘base’ model is plentiful with highlights consisting of virtual cockpit digital instruments, 8.0-inch infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, reversing camera, smartphone mirroring, wireless charging, ambient lighting, adaptive cruise control, an auto-dimming rear-view (and driver’s wing) mirror and electric tailgate.
Other features include advanced keyless entry, a door-mounted umbrella, light assist, rain-sensing wipers, tyre pressure monitoring system, privacy glass, leather steering wheel trim, LED exterior lighting and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Headline safety features comprise Front Assist with city emergency brake, rear manoeuvre braking assist (meaning low-speed front and rear AEB), rear parking sensors, Lane Assist and seven airbags.
Once again occupying the mid-ground of the Kamiq range is the sportier 110TSI Monte Carlo, which in addition to featuring lower suspension, angrier styling cues and a bigger turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine (110kW/250Nm) also packs in some more toys including selectable drive modes, sports seats and pedals, adaptive front lighting system with dynamic headlights and a panoramic sunroof.
The extra power and accompanying sporty paraphernalia does come at a cost, with the MY22 Monte Carlo starting at $41,990 drive-away.
Customers can factor in another $4300 if they go for the Travel Pack, which bundles in front parking sensors, Park Assist, Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, heated front and rear-outboard seats, heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, a bigger 9.2-inch infotainment screen, satellite navigation, wireless smartphone mirroring, a Skoda sound system and voice control.
At the top of the range, the Kamiq 110TSI Signature ($42,990 drive-away) is powered by the same engine but adds “key Travel Pack features” including leather and suedia upholstery, silver roof rails and a power adjustable driver’s seat.
A panoramic roof is optionally available on all grades for $1500, as are pearl and metallic paint finishes ($550-$1100).
How much does the 2022 Skoda Kamiq cost?85TSI Style (a) – $37,990110TSI Monte Carlo (a) – $41,990110TSI Signature (a) – $42,990
* All prices are drive-away
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Keyword: Turbo-triple power returns to Skoda Kamiq for MY23