Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI 116 PS DSG Style review

Having recently tested the entry-level Skoda Kamiq, fitted with the 95 PS 1.0 TSI engine in Ambition trim, this time the focus is on the range-topping petrol version.

It uses the same 1.0 TSI unit, although output rises by 21 PS to 116 PS, and it is paired with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Equipment specification is also upgraded to the top-level Style trim.

Is it worth choosing over its more modest sibling?

Typically Skoda

In visual terms, the Kamiq follows the restrained styling traditionally associated with Skoda models. Interestingly, it feels closer in appearance to a crossover than an SUV, due to its limited ground clearance and the lack of plastic body cladding.

That understated approach carries into the cabin, where sturdy assembly quality is complemented by pleasant-to-the-touch materials across the main contact areas.

As Fernando Gomes noted when he tested the entry-level Kamiq, ergonomics have suffered slightly following the removal of several physical controls for functions such as the air conditioning and radio volume.

When it comes to passenger room and cabin versatility, I can again echo Fernando’s assessment: in this respect, the Kamiq stands among the segment’s strongest offerings.

Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI DSG: three personalities

Firstly, as with every Kamiq, the driving position is somewhat lower than one might expect from an SUV. Nevertheless, comfort is good, while the new steering wheel not only feels pleasant in the hands but also gives the Czech model a more premium air through its controls.

Once under way, the Kamiq can adapt to the driver’s needs - and mood - through the now-familiar driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Individual, the latter allowing a bespoke set-up.

In “Eco” mode, the engine response feels more relaxed and the DSG gearbox becomes particularly eager to select a higher gear as quickly - and as early - as possible. The outcome is fuel consumption as low as 4.7 l/100 km on open roads at a steady speed, alongside a calm character that requires a firmer press of the accelerator to awaken the 116 PS and remind the swift DSG gearbox that it needs to downshift.

“Sport” mode delivers precisely the reverse. The steering gains weight - slightly too much for my liking - the gearbox holds onto each ratio for longer before changing up, allowing the engine to rev higher, and throttle response becomes sharper. Everything happens more quickly and, although performance is not breathtaking - nor should it be expected to be - the Kamiq gains a previously unseen sense of confidence.

Most interestingly, fuel use remains at very acceptable levels even then, staying below 7 to 7.5 l/100 km, including when making full use of the engine’s potential.

Finally, “Normal” mode is, as usual, the compromise option. It retains the more pleasant steering weight of “Eco” without the engine’s apparent lethargy; the gearbox shifts earlier than in “Sport”, but does not constantly chase the tallest possible gear. And consumption? On a mixed route covering motorway, A-roads and urban driving, it averaged 5.7 l/100 km, a more than respectable figure.

In dynamic terms, Fernando’s conclusions are once again worth recalling. Comfortable and stable on the motorway - where sound insulation is also satisfactory - the Skoda Kamiq is defined above all by its predictability.

It is not as entertaining on a mountain road as the Hyundai Kauai or Ford Puma, but the Kamiq offers high levels of effectiveness and safety, qualities that are always welcome in a model with family ambitions. At the same time, it consistently maintained its composure, even where the road surface was far from ideal.

Is the Skoda Kamiq the right car for me?

In its flagship petrol form, the Skoda Kamiq presents a notably balanced proposition. Alongside the strengths shared by the whole range - space, solidity, understated design and simply clever solutions - this Kamiq adds a little more enjoyment behind the wheel, thanks to a 116 PS 1.0 TSI engine that proved a capable companion.

Compared with the 95 PS version, it provides stronger performance without a meaningful penalty in fuel consumption - an advantage for those who regularly drive with the car fully loaded. Its only drawback is the price gap to the less powerful version, which in the same trim level starts at €26,832 - around €1,600 less.

The test car, however, came with several optional extras that lifted its price to €31,100. For not much more - €32,062 - it is already possible to step up to the larger Karoq with the same engine and trim level, albeit with a manual gearbox.