The Skoda Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG, produced from 2019 to November 2020, represents a key entry point into the Kamiq range, Skoda’s compact SUV offering. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this variant utilized a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). It was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel engines remained popular due to their fuel economy and suitability for long-distance driving. The Kamiq itself is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB A0 platform, shared with models like the Volkswagen T-Cross and SEAT Arona, offering a blend of affordability, space, and modern features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Kamiq |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | November, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg, 58.9 – 57.6 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.3 l/100 km (56 – 54.7 US mpg, 67.3 – 65.7 UK mpg, 23.8 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 111-112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3250-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / DGTA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1289-1435 kg (2841.76 – 3163.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 146 kg (321.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1395 l (49.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4241 mm (166.97 in.) |
| Width | 1793 mm (70.59 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1988 mm (78.27 in.) |
| Height | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2651 mm (104.37 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 837 mm (32.95 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 753 mm (29.65 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 182 mm (7.17 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.333 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.4° |
| Departure angle | 20° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16; 6J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG is the EA288 series 1.6-liter inline-four diesel engine, specifically the DGTA code variant. This engine features a turbocharger with intercooling, designed to boost power and efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power output. A particulate filter is included to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP standards. The seven-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a dual-clutch transmission that offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DSG’s programming prioritizes efficiency, with taller gear ratios for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.6 TDI engine and DSG transmission resulted in a practical, rather than sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 10.4 seconds. The DSG transmission helped to mask some of the engine’s limitations, providing responsive shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to higher-output Kamiq variants, such as the 1.5 TSI petrol engine, the 1.6 TDI felt less eager to accelerate, but offered significantly better fuel economy. The DSG’s gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, meaning that while quick bursts of acceleration were possible, the engine could feel strained when pushed hard. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of optional all-wheel-drive systems found on some other compact SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for higher-grade materials available on higher trim levels. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rear-view camera, automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The specific trim level (e.g., Active, Ambition, Style) determined the extent of standard equipment and available options.
Chassis & Braking
The Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright handling performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Skoda Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option in the compact SUV segment. Its strengths lay in its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and low running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to petrol-powered Kamiq variants, the 1.6 TDI offered superior fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen T-Cross, SEAT Arona, and Renault Captur, the Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG offered a compelling combination of value, space, and efficiency.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDI engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent DPF issues. The DSG transmission is also a complex unit that requires regular fluid changes to ensure smooth operation. On the used car market, the Kamiq 1.6 TDI DSG represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical compact SUV. Its relatively low purchase price and running costs make it an attractive option, but potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements associated with the diesel engine and DSG transmission.
