Overview

Should you buy one?

Yes, you should. If you’re in the market for a small SUV that feels grown up, the Skoda Kamiq sits up there at the top of the class. While not especially different or special, the 2024 update has addressed some of the car’s lacklustre styling with at least a little more going on at both the front and rear. And if you value passenger space and comfort over looks and handling, the Kamiq is unbeatable in this class.

We recommend you opt for the 116hp 1.0-litre TSI, as it has greater flexibility than the 95hp engine. Stick with the manual gearbox, too, 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’s new?

Not a massive amount, but Skoda has made the changes where they count. Skoda has sought to bring the Kamiq’s likeness closer to that of its mid-sized Karoq and seven-seat Kodiaq SUVs post-facelift, with a range of styling tweaks that include a new grille and headlight arrangement.

The Czech brand hasn’t neglected the rest of the car, though. Inside, you get a few choice technology improvements, including an upgraded infotainment screen and a more powerful wireless phone charging box. That latter point was always somewhat of a bugbear of ours in the old car.

The Kamiq was first launched in 2019 and we’ve tested plenty of examples since then. Until now, it’s always felt like the small SUV bridesmaid, rather than the bride – but for 2025 it’s emerged ahead of all of its rivals to take the Best Small Family Car in the Parkers New Cars Award.

Why’s this happened? Well, the Kamiq shares its DNA with other Volkswagen Group SUVs such as the SEAT Arona and Volkswagen T-Cross, and has long been a commendable family car. But its sharp new looks, updated technology, great-value pricing and floundering competitors have elevated the Kamiq to the top step of the podium.

The most obvious reason for Skoda’s success is, of course, the ruination of the Ford Puma. Even though the updated Puma is still the driver’s choice in the segment and it’s very nearly as sensible as the Skoda, Ford’s engineers have dropped the ball on the car’s interior, making it far more unfriendly to use than the pre-facelifted car’s.

Other options include the stylish Nissan Juke, even if its engine range isn’t as broad and it isn’t anywhere near as comfortable as the Kamiq. You also get a very broad choice of powertrains in the Peugeot 2008, which is even available as a full electric car. Those after a more premium option, meanwhile should check out the Audi Q2 or the Lexus LBX.

The Kamiq is currently available in four trim configurations: SE Edition, Design Edition SE L Edition and the sportier-looking Monte Carlo Edition. Minimum standard equipment includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, two-zone air conditioning and cruise control.

Over the next few pages of our Skoda Kamiq review we’ll thoroughly inspect all aspects of it and rate them in our verdict. Our scores take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run. Read about how we test cars to find out what our process is and how we reach our conclusions.