Should you buy one?

Yes you should. If you’re in the market for a small SUV that feels grown up, it sits up there at the top of the class. Skoda has managed to make an alternative not only to its VW Group sister cars but also the class-leading Ford Puma. While not especially different, the 2024 update has addressed some of the Kamiq’s lacklustre styling with at least a little more going on at both the front and rear.

There’s very little to separate the Puma and Kamiq, with the former proving slightly more desirable and better to drive, and it has a bigger boot. However, if you value passenger space and comfort over cargo and handling, the Kamiq is the one to go for.

We’d opt for the 1.0-litre TSI with 116hp thanks to its greater flexibility than the 95hp engine, and stick with the manual gearbox as it’s slick and very easy to use. SE L offers pretty much all the tech you’d want, including the 9.2-inch infotainment screen for a bit of wow factor.

What we like

It remains very much a Skoda, and plays to the company’s strengths – a practical interior and some clever extra touches that make it a great option as a small family car. Four adults fit comfortably, the boot is practical, it’s very easy to drive and the engines are punchy yet frugal.

What we don’t like

The Kamiq is just a little bit boring, really, and it’s not as engaging to drive as the Puma. We could complain about the lack of hybrid or electric models, too.