Skoda Kamiq review

Small SUVs are becoming more and more like chocolate bars. You see, while the basic ingredients of some of the bestsellers are now very similar, there’s still always something to help you decide which one to buy.

So, why might you choose the Skoda Kamiq over a Seat Arona or Volkswagen T-Cross, two models that also use the same basic underpinnings? Well, sticking with the choccie bar analogy for a moment longer, the Kamiq has a different wrapper and a squidgier filling – but it’s also what you might describe as ‘King Size’.

Before we explain exactly what we mean by all that, though, let’s consider the looks, because while Skoda hasn’t exactly been as adventurous as Nissan was when it launched the original Juke back in 2010, the Kamiq isn’t simply a Karoq (Skoda’s larger family SUV) that’s been put through a photocopier set to 95%.

The split headlight design, with LED daytime running lights along the top, is completely new for the brand, for example, and the Kamiq is also the first Skoda available with dynamic indicators front and rear. These use LEDs that light up in sequence from the inside of the car to the outside, effectively pointing to the direction you’re going to turn in. It’s a fancy feature that you might have noticed when following an Audi or a Jaguar, so kudos to Skoda for offering it at such as low price point.

Another nifty feature is the hidden plastic strips that automatically pop out to cover the edges of the doors as they open – particularly helpful at preventing over-exuberant kids from denting cars parked next to you at the supermarket. Meanwhile, the usual Skoda accoutrements, including an umbrella in the door and an ice scraper in the fuel filler cap, are present and correct. Most versions even have a rechargeable torch that lives in the boot.

But aside from all those clever touches, is the Skoda Kamiq a fundamentally good car? Does it stack up financially and, crucially, should you consider buying one instead of other great small SUVs, including the Arona and T-Cross? Read on to find out.

And if you’re in the market for any small SUV, head over to our New Car Buying section to find out how much you could save on the brochure price without any awkward haggling.