Skoda Kamiq vs. Skoda Karoq: which is better?
Skoda's SUVs go head-to-head in a cinch versus battle. Which is best for you?
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Skoda’s SUV lineup is forever expanding, and in such a competitive market it can be hard to know which is right for you.
We compare the Skoda Kamiq and Skoda Karoq to see which is better-suited for your lifestyle. They may look similar but couldn’t be further apart.
Skoda Karoq vs. Skoda Kamiq: which has more style?
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Looking at the two head-on, it’s hard to tell much of a difference. Both feature the same moustache-like front grille and slim chrome outlining.
The main difference can be seen with the lights. On the Karoq you get more traditional headlights, whereas the Kamiq gets a long line of bright LEDs that light up the road ahead.
Looking at them sideways and you’ll instantly notice the size difference. The Karoq is noticeably taller and the Kamiq has a sleeker side profile.
By looks alone, you can tell they're related to each other (and the rest of the VW group) and it’s no bad thing that their form follows their function.
What’s it like to drive a Skoda Karoq vs. Kamiq?
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Okay, so Skoda hasn’t set out to break any lap records with these cars, but what it has done is build a base for dependable and relaxing cars to drive.
They don’t sit on the same platform but they’re very similar. This means they’re not a million miles apart in terms of performance and handling.
There are a few different engines to choose from. The Karoq has both petrol and diesel options, whereas the Kamiq is limited to either a 1.0-litre or 1.5-litre petrol.
If you tend to do shorter journeys, the Kamiq’s petrol lineup will suit you down to the ground, but if you need to go the distance, get the Karoq diesel for up to 48.7mpg.
What’s the technology in the Skoda Kamiq and Karoq?
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Skoda likes to keep things simple when it comes to its interiors and tech. Sometimes there’s nothing more confusing than a tech-fest, so the Kamiq and Karoq are kept simple, but that’s not to say they’re basic.
You still get modern features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto in all trims from the SE upwards.
Move to the higher trims of both and you benefit from a panoramic sunroof, adaptive LED headlights and a larger 10.25-inch display.
Skoda has always been good at making a clear and concise cabin, and that’s exactly what both cars have.
Speaking of which, the practicality element is where these two cars shine.
As their classes go, they’re two of the most practical cars on sale, with plenty of cabin storage options and plenty of space for rear-seat passengers.
Skoda Kamiq vs. Karoq dimensions and boot space
They might be both SUVs, but the Kamiq and the Karoq are for different audiences, and it shows in their size difference.
2024 Skoda Kamiq dimensions
Length: 4241mm
Width: 1793mm
Height: 1533mm
Boot space: 400 litres
2022 Skoda Karoq dimensions
Length: 4390mm
Width: 1841mm
Height: 1603mm
Boot space: 521 litres
Kamiq vs. Karoq: which is more reliable?
Skoda doesn’t mess about when it comes to reliability, which is why it’s famed for making dependable, hard-wearing cars.
What makes the Kamiq and Karoq so reliable is that they don’t use a huge amount of tech, so there’s less that can go wrong.
Plus, Skoda has help from the Volkswagen Group for its engines, so these tried-and-tested units only add to their overall robustness.
As for which one is more reliable, this is hard to say. Either way you’re getting a very similar car with equal amounts of dependability.
Used Skoda Karoq vs. used Skoda Kamiq: which should I buy?
If you’re stuck choosing between a used Skoda Karoq and a used Skoda Kamiq, perhaps our short summaries will help guide you in the right direction.
You should buy a used Skoda Karoq if...
> you need more boot space
> you want a diesel engine
> you have a bigger budget
You should buy a used Skoda Kamiq if...
> you prefer how it looks
> you want a smaller car
> you’re after decent performance