Skoda Unwraps Updated Scala And Kamiq
Sharper looks, revised interiors and new engine options are among the highlights.
Meet the refreshed versions of two Skoda models – the Scala and the Kamiq. As with midlife makeovers, the duo receive cosmetic treatments inside and outside the cabin, more creature comforts and new engine options. Moreover, the use of sustainable materials has seen a bump. Skoda claims that both models are now safer than before, thanks to assistance and safety systems from more expensive models.
On the outside, the updated Scala and Kamiq get revised front and rear fascias and a restyled octagonal grille. The brand lettering on the boot lid aligns with Skoda’s latest Corporate Identity. The duo also get restyled and slimmer headlights, powered by LEDs as standard. However, the option of LED Matrix beam headlights is now available for the first time. Another notable option is the electric tailgate with what Skoda calls “the virtual pedal”. In layman’s terms, a foot movement underneath the rear apron opens the boot lid.
Rounding off the exterior changes are two new alloy wheel designs – 17-inch Kajam and 18-inch Fornax. Depending on the market and variant, the wheel size will range between 16 and 18 inches. The updated Scala portfolio includes six metallic and three solid colour options for the exterior, including Steel Grey (not available with Kamiq). The Kamiq, on the other hand, has two solid and seven metallic colour options, including Phoenix Orange (not available with Scala). One could even choose the Colour Concept finish, which blackens the roof, A-pillars and the ORVM caps.
Skoda has devised three primary trim levels for the refreshed Scala and Kamiq – Essence, Selection and Monte Carlo. Between them are six Design Selections for the interior. In Essence and Monte Carlo iterations, the duo features specific interior themes. The mid-level Selection trim, however, has four Design Selection choices: Loft, Lodge, Dynamic, and Suite. Other features are bucketed in thirteen packages or can be ordered as individual add-ons.
The cabin features more use of sustainable materials. The headliner, for instance, is partly made of hemp and kenaf fibres. The use of recycled fabrics in upholstery, floor mats, and carpeting furthers the sustainability case. Those looking for the most sporty package will settle for a Monte Carlo derivative. With LED Matrix headlights as standard, the black interior is accompanied by red highlights and elements with a carbon look.
An 8-inch digital instrument cluster is standard across the range for the updated Scala and Kamiq. The navigation package ropes in a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, getting a 10-inch display behind the steering wheel is possible through the options list. That list also includes two extra USB-C ports, each with a peak power of 45 watts. The cars also have a wireless mobile charger with cooling. At the same time, automatic climate control gets haptic buttons for various functions.
Both refreshed models now get new engine options – two versions of the 1.0-litre TSI and one of the 1.5-litre TSI. The smaller engine, outputting between 95hp/175Nm and 115hp/200Nm, has three transmissions – a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 7-speed DCT. The latter two are the choices for the 150hp/250Nm larger powerplant, which also comes with an active cylinder deactivation system under low loads.
In addition to standard safety and assistance systems such as Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitor, Lane Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, the updated Scala and Kamiq now have Easy Light Assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system. LED fog lamps and cruise control with a speed limiter are available from the Selection trim upwards. The options list includes up to nine airbags, Travel Assist, and Crew Protect Assist.
The Scala and Kamiq have jointly racked up over 670,000 sales in more than 60 countries worldwide. In fact, the Kamiq has been Skoda’s second bestseller for three years in a row since 2021. With the midlife updates, the Czechia brand aims to build on the duo’s ongoing success.
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