Sometimes, a perfectly acceptable car just gets a whole lot better when the top end model comes out.
Skoda launched the Kamiq in May of this year in its Ambition and Ambition + grades, ably demonstrating what can happen when you develop an SUV from a well-sorted hatchback.
You gain ride height obviously, and you lose very little of the hatchback’s convenience which – if you tried to go the other way, SUV to hatchback – you might not find so effective.
But hatchbacks – by virtue of their lower centres of gravity when compared to even a small SUV – will often be a preferred choice of a driver given the option, purely from their better handling consideration.
The Monte Carlo is the Kamiq we should have seen first, since it is the one which encourages a driver’s-seat-to-sales-desk-chair transition.
You drive the Kamiq Monte Carlo and you WANT to own it, “right now, and in this colour please,” and there are not too many cars in my experience, which have had this effect.
There’s something inherent in the Monte Carlo specification which makes any shortcomings or misgivings you might have about a lesser grade Kamiq just… go away.
So, exactly what is it that differentiates a Monte Carlo from the Ambition or Ambition+? On paper, not very much, or so it seems.
There is a closer relationship with the Ambition+ obviously, and that especially under the bonnet.
Monte Carlo and Ambition+ both run the 110kW turbo-petrol with its 250Nmtorque output, all going to the front wheels only via a seven-speed DSG transmission.
In the Monte Carlo, the power seems more engaged throughout the rev range, effecting faster and smoother acceleration with snappier throttle response.
Subjective? Certainly. Discernible, nonetheless? Most definitely.
Alright, what about the objective differences? Why is the Monte Carlo a better bet?
The Monte Carlo specification affects both interior and exterior elements, most obvious being the panoramic sunroof with the gloss black roof rails.
The Monte Carlo also showcases the largest rims – 18-inch alloys – in the range, finished in black.
Perhaps not as dramatic, but more critically in terms of safety, the Monte Carlo specification includes Bi-LED lights with cornering function combined with fog-lights.
These replace the standard LED headlight and daytime running light combination in the Ambition/+ grade.
The interior specifications go further than just cosmetic touches, though these are a major factor in making the Monte Carlo that much more desirable.
All Kamiq’s have the option of a drive mode selector which maps the engine and transmission performance to eco, normal or sport modes.
Monte Carlo specification upgrades the basic package, incorporating adaptive suspension to the system.
Where cruise control with a speed limiter is a standard option, Monte Carlo specification gives adaptive cruise control, which allows for unexpected speed changes.
Kamiq’s all offer lane keeping assist, frontal collision mitigation and emergency city braking, but to this, Monte Carlo spec adds side assist (blind spot monitoring) and rear cross traffic alert.
Kamiq translates to ‘a perfect fit.’ Kamiq Monte Carlo should translate into ‘a perfect fit with an extravagant display’ (of specification).
One drive and you’ll see the SUV more than measures up to the name and Skoda’s well-earned reputation.
Specifications:
BODY TYPE 5 door SUV DRIVE Front wheel drive/7 speed DSG
ENGINE TYPE 3-cylinder, turbo petrol ENGINE CAPACITY 1498 cc
MAX POWER 110kW
MAX TORQUE 200Nm
L/100KM (COMBINED) 5.8
CO2 EMISSIONS 130 g/km
LOAD CAPACITY 400 litres
ANCAP RATING 5 Star
PRICE $42,990
