Skoda cuts price of Kamiq SUV

A European car maker has launched a new small SUV that undercuts popular alternatives from several big-name Japanese brands.

Skoda has slashed $5000 off the price of its Kamiq small SUV, introducing an entry-level model.

Dubbed the Kamiq Run Out, the limited edition model is priced at $32,990 drive-away and is available until halfway through next year.

It brings a high level of standard gear and is backed by a seven-year/unlimited km warranty, with seven years of capped price servicing that costs $2650.

The introduction of the value-focused model was first mooted by Skoda’s global boss Klaus Zellmer at the Munich motor show in September. He claimed the brand had “homework to do” on offering more affordable variants on some of its models following a 30 per cent increase in the starting price of the Kamiq in just a few years.

The original Kamiq was priced at $29,990 drive-away when it first launched in 2020.

2023 Skoda Kamiq Run Out.

The Kamiq Run Out compares favourably with other compact SUVs.

The cheapest Kia Seltos is priced at $31,690 and the entry-level Mazda CX-30 starts at about $37,000 while the Honda HR-V will set owners back $34,900.

There is plenty of kit included as standard in the Kamiq Run Out, including LED lighting front and back, 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather-appointed steering wheel and an eight-inch central touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also standard are four USB-C charging ports and an eight-speaker stereo.

2023 Skoda Kamiq Run Out.

Skoda hasn’t skimped on safety either, with seven airbags, auto emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert all included.

If you want radar cruise control, a digital driver display, wireless device charging and dual-zone airconditioning you’ll need to step up to the $37,990 Kamiq Style.

Power for the Kamiq Run Out comes from a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes 85kW and 200Nm. The healthy serve of torque is made from just 2000rpm, making for decent shove off the mark.

The engine is matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and Skoda claims fuel use of 5.6L/100km, although it does require pricier premium petrol.

Skoda Australia head of marketing and product Kieran Merrigan says competitors can’t match the Kamiq Run Out.

The entry price of the Skoda Kamiq has jumped Pics by Thomas Wielecki

“We have seen competitors persist with inefficient naturally aspirated engines and plastic steering wheels in entry models, however we find that our customers typically want more,” Mr Merrigan said.

“Our next step as we head towards a major year of new models in 2024 is to further increase the model grades we have available while remaining on-brand.”

This likely points to a cheaper Fabia arriving next year as Zellmer also pointed out that Skoda needs a more affordable version of its small hatchback in Australia.

At the moment it is only available in a single fully-loaded Monte Carlo specification priced close to $40,000 drive-away.

Originally published as Skoda cuts price of Kamiq SUV