SKODAKamiq 2023 - Present

　　In the summer of 2023, the Czech automaker Skoda introduced the refreshed version of its crossover Kamiq vehicle. The improved model brought significant updates to the car's exterior and interior. It also brought new, attractive drivetrain solutions.

　　Sharing its MQB-A0 platform with its compact-sized hatchback sibling Scala, the Kamiq was introduced on the market in 2019. It was the smallest and most successful Skoda SUV/crossover vehicle, with over 300,000 units sold. Besides its attractive price, the Kamiq was welcomed by customers also due to what it had to offer for daily situations, such as fuel-efficient engines, a comfortable interior, and a large enough trunk for a family of four. But, despite its crossover look, it was exclusively available with a front-wheel-drive platform.

　　For the refreshed version, Skoda installed a new grille up front, featuring vertical slats with chromed details to emphasize the car's importance in the automaker's lineup. The base trim level came with standard LED headlights, while the upper trim levels were available with Matrix-LED technology, previously reserved only for premium and expensive cars. But the Kamiq was none of these. It was just a simple, humble, jacked-up hatchback that played well in the family section. But that didn't keep Skoda on the side when it decided to improve the car's look. So, at the lower side of the front bumper, the car got a hexagonal mesh grille flanked on the sides by a pair of scoops. In addition, the automaker offered the option for LED fog lamps. The Kamiq featured sculptured door panels adorned with an ascending line that emerged from the lower side of the front doors to the rear quarter panels. Behind the rear doors, the raked-forward C-pillars got an angular shape on their lower side, emphasizing Skoda's cubist styling. Skoda adorned the back of the vehicle with corner-mounted taillights extended on the tailgate. Depending on the trim level and options, these LED lights were either stationary or with dynamic blinkers.

　　Inside, Skoda's engineers worked hard, and the carmaker's team found a solution to provide the vehicle with up to six levels of interiors. The Kamiq featured cloth upholstery for the lower grades, while the upper ones could've been ordered with suede or man-made leather with hand-stitched details. Thanks to the taller greenhouse than in the Scala, the Kamiq could provide more headroom for passengers. Still, the legroom for those seated on the split-folding bench in the rear could have been better. It was just enough, especially for kids or teenagers. On the dashboard, the automaker installed an 8-inch display fronting the driver. In addition, an 8.5” touchscreen for the infotainment unit sat above the center stack.

　　Skoda used only gasoline engines for the Kamiq ranging between 73 HP (75 PS) and 144 HP (150 PS) and paired with five or six-speed manuals or a seven-speed, dual-clutch, automatic gearbox. The Czech automaker also modified the vehicle's chassis and offered customers the option for a higher ground clearance for rough roads or a lower and stiffer one for those looking for a sportier look.

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