Base Skoda Kamiq gets more grunt for MY22

SKODA’S smallest SUV, the Kamiq, has gained a gutsier entry-point and more lavish flagship as part of the MY22 update, with prices now starting from $32,990 driveaway for the new Ambition variant.

Replacing the now defunct – and sold out – 85TSI, Ambition trim level is available in both manual and automatic forms, with power coming courtesy of the familiar turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (110kW/250Nm) that is now the only Kamiq powerplant offered Down Under.

The bigger and more powerful engine has inevitably impacted the Kamiq’s starting price, which was previously $26,990 before on-road costs for the 85TSI manual.

Nevertheless, the DIY transmission continues to offer six ratios while the dual-clutch automatic carries on with seven – both sending drive to the front wheels.

Described by Skoda as “catering to the most value-focused Skoda customer”, the Ambition trim includes a virtual cockpit, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED head- and tail-lights, multi-function flat-bottomed steering wheel, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, lane assist with lane-keeping system and a powered tailgate as standard.

Other highlights include privacy glass, fabric upholstery, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (wired), wireless charging, dual-zone climate control and adaptive cruise control.

Once again, the middle of the range is occupied by the sports-themed Monte Carlo ($37,990 driveaway) variant which adds a number of black body features including more aggressive 18-inch alloys, lowered sports suspension, adaptive front light system, headlight cornering function, sports pedals, panoramic roof and drive mode selector.

At the top of the range, the $38,990 (driveway) Signature builds further on the Monte Carlo’s spec – and deletes the black body features – with leather and ‘Suedia’ upholstery, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated seats all-round, front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring and a bigger 9.2-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

“Sitting at the entry point to the Kamiq range under the sporty 110TSI Monte Carlo and the new fully-loaded 110TSI Signature, which replaces the Limited-Edition launch grade, the 110TSI Kamiq Ambition is filled to the brim with a high level of standard features and available with either a six-speed manual or seven speed DSG transmission,” a Skoda Australia spokesperson said in a statement.

The Kamiq has been a modest seller for Skoda so far this year with 1039 units shifted to the end of May, accounting for 1.9 per cent of the busy and bustling sub-$40,000 compact SUV market.

2022 Skoda Kamiq driveaway pricing