Skoda Kamiq 2023: facelifted small SUV previewed in digital renders

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Skoda has shown digital renderings of its facelifted Kamiq small SUV ahead of the new car’s official reveal on August 1, with the updated model expected to to arrive locally next year.

The VW Group MQB-A0 platform-sharing Kamiq SUV and Scala hatchback have both been facelifted for 2024, with “progressive design and technology enhancements” promised for the Czech pair.

Skoda’s well-received Kamiq has been in line for a refresh after four years on the market, with “more visual presence” demanded to keep pace in the fiercely competitive small SUV segment.

Redesigned headlights, radiator grille and front and rear bumpers are coming for the 2024 model year, plus new alloys and tailgate lettering moving to Skoda’s updated corporate identity style.

A Skoda Australia spokesman told Chasing Cars we can expect the facelifted Kamiq
in Australia “In the first half of next year, and most likely about mid-year.”

The Skoda Kamiq recently took the win in Chasing Cars small SUV megatest, ahead of the BYD Atto 3 and Toyota Corolla Cross in second and third place respectively.  

What can we tell from the digital renderings?

Although only sketches, the two pictures released by Skoda hint at a more rugged appearance for Kamiq.

The SUV’s distinctive and quite aggressive split headlights are now slimmer in the upper elements, complete with fancy four-section daytime running lights.

Its double-slatted radiator grille is larger and more upright, while the air intake below is revised to accentuate the SUV’s width. A silver diffuser below this is there for underbody protection.

Out back, a chunky silver diffuser leading into the bumper serves the same protective purposes.  There are revised L-shaped split rear LED lights, joined below by L-shaped reflectors.

Skoda promises the facelifted Kamiq will have technology enhancements and features “from higher vehicle classes,” but doesn’t go into detail or show any interior images.

As with the facelifted Skoda Scala, it’s unlikely Kamiq will see any drivetrain changes for 2024.

The current three-strong Kamiq range uses a petrol line-up of 85kW/200Nm 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder (entry-level Style) or a 110kW/250Nm turbo four-cylinder in the Monte Carlo and Signature grades.

How are Skoda Kamiq sales going?

Skoda’s Australian sales have been severely impacted by supply issues, but we’re promised 2023 has seen significant improvements.

In the hotly contested sub-$45k small SUV segment, Kamiq sales are under 1000 for the year to date. This represents a small 1.5 per cent market share. Class leading MG ZS holds a 20 per cent share with 13,500 sales in 2023 so far.

The current Skoda Kamiq Style costs from $37,990 drive-away, mid-spec Monte Carlo is $42,490 in the traffic, and range-topping Signature is from $43,490 on the road.