Skoda Kamiq

This small SUV is about as sensible as cars get, but that doesn't mean it's tedious to live with

- MARK PEARSON

THINK OF THE Kamiq as Skoda's answer to the Big Mac. No, it's not made from beef and cheese, but, like the famous burger, it's the second best-selling product in its maker's line-up. And like the Big Mac, it's rather tasty.

The Kamiq engine range kicks off with a 1.0-litre unit in a variety of power outputs: an entry-level 94bhp TSI 95 (which comes with a five-speed manual gearbox), a 108bhp TSI 110 and a 113bhp TSI 115. There's also a 148bhp 1.5 TSI Evo 150, which, like the TSI 110 and 115, comes with a six-speed manual gearbox; a seven-speed automatic is optional. There was also a lone diesel engine option from launch (the 113bhp 1.6 TDI 115); this was dropped from the range in 2023.

There were four trim levels initially: S, SE, SE L and Monte Carlo. All have automatic emergency braking and lanekeeping assistance as standard.

Entry-level S trim also included 16in alloy wheels and a DAB radio with Bluetooth; SE introduced 17in wheels and rear parking sensors; SE L came with 18in wheels and upgraded the infotainment touchscreen from 8.0in to 9.2in; and range-topping Monte Carlo toted sportier looks.