Skoda Kamiq 2022: Afriq rally concept arms small SUV with AWD Octavia powertrain

Skoda has unveiled a new concept car known as the Afriq, which has transformed the sensible Kamiq small SUV into a rally-inspired fighter.

The Afriq concept is the latest creation by Skoda’s Student Concept Car program that sees an existing model transformed into something far more extreme every year.

This year, a team of 25 students chose the Kamiq as their base before swapping out the front-wheel-drive underpinnings for an all-wheel-drive system sourced from the Octavia 4×4 sold in Europe. 

As part of the donation, a 140kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine was added, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

The students also ditched the torsion-beam rear suspension of the Kamiq in favour of the multi-link independent set-up in the Octavia as part of a raft of underbody modifications made to enhance dynamic performance.

In true rally fashion, the rear doors were also welded shut – transforming the concept into a two-door vehicle and increasing the rigidity of the body.

Modifications were made to the transmission in order to squeeze into the more compact dimensions of the Kamiq, and the students designed a single-pipe exhaust system that exits out the rear bumper for some added flair. 

Larger brakes from the Octavia were also fitted, along with 15-inch OZ Racing alloy wheels wrapped in chunky Pirelli rally tyres.

The students then sourced competition-spec parts from the Fabia Rally2 Evo, including a roof scope, racing seats and additional lights on the front bonnet, plus other rally must-haves including a roll-cage and fire extinguisher system.

Despite the extra heft of the drivetrain, a gutted interior has assisted in trimming weight to 1350kg – just 113kg more than a front-drive Kamiq Monte Carlo.

Skoda Kamiq 2022: prices in Australia

All figures listed are the national driveaway prices.

• 85TSI Style: $37,990
• 110TSI Monte Carlo: $41,990 
• 110TSI Signature: $42,990