Suzuki Vitara vs. Škoda Kamiq: Complete comparison 2026

The Suzuki Vitara, also known as the Escudo in Japan and some other markets, has long been an established player in the compact SUV field, building on its robustness and optional all-wheel drive. It is pitted against the Škoda Kamiq, the smallest SUV from the Mladá Boleslav carmaker, which has brought a fresh design, clever solutions, and a focus primarily on urban traffic and family use to the same segment. This duel will show whether the proven Japanese versatility or modern Czech practicality is the better choice.

Exterior dimensions: Kamiq is longer, Vitara is taller

Looking at the dimensions table, it is clear that although both cars fall into the same compact SUV category, the Škoda Kamiq is slightly larger overall. With a length of 4,241 mm, it outgrows the Suzuki Vitara (4,170-4,175 mm) by about 7 centimetres. This difference will be noticeable not only in the more spacious cabin, but also when looking for a parking space. The Vitara, on the other hand, is a little more agile in narrow city streets thanks to its more compact dimensions.

A similar, though smaller, difference can be found in the width, where the Kamiq's 1,793 mm is just under two centimetres wider than the Vitara's (1,775 mm). This small difference on paper can contribute to a feeling of greater airiness in the interior. The Kamiq's exterior dimensions make it more inclined to be a family car.

A fundamental difference comes in height. Here, the Suzuki Vitara dominates, which at around 1,600 mm is significantly taller than the Škoda Kamiq (1,527 mm). This gives it a more classic SUV silhouette, a higher driving position and potentially more headroom. The Kamiq looks more like a raised hatchback or crossover.

However, the biggest difference lies in the wheelbase. With its 2,651 mm, the Kamiq declasses the Vitara (2,500 mm) by a whopping 15 centimetres. It is this parameter that is key to the interior space, especially for the knees of the rear seat passengers. While the Vitara relies on compactness and agility, the Kamiq clearly prioritises crew comfort.

Boot volume and practicality

For many buyers in the compact SUV segment, practicality is a key factor and boot size plays a major role. This is where one of the most significant differences between the Škoda Kamiq and the Suzuki Vitara comes to the fore. While both cars offer enough space for normal family needs, the Czech representative is clearly on top in this discipline.

The Škoda Kamiq boasts one of the largest boots in its class. In its basic configuration, it offers a generous 400 litres. Folding down the rear seats creates up to 1395 litres of space, making the Kamiq a great partner not only for weekend shopping, but also for longer holidays with the whole family. However, care should be taken with the G-TEC version with CNG drive, where the gas tanks reduce the volume to just 278 litres.

The Suzuki Vitara is a little more modest, but still very practical. Its luggage compartment has a basic volume of 375 litres, which is only 25 litres less than the Kamiq. You will hardly notice this difference in practice. It becomes more apparent only after folding down the backrests, when the Vitara offers a maximum of 1120 litres. An important piece of information for those interested in hybrid versions is that while the mild-hybrid variants do not reduce the boot volume, the fully hybrid 1.5 Dualjet Hybrid model has a reduced boot size of 289 litres due to the battery storage.

Trailer weight: Suzuki Vitara surprises, Škoda Kamiq holds the standard

The ability to tow a trailer is crucial for many crossover owners, whether for transporting bikes, garden waste or a small caravan. In this respect, the two models differ more than it might seem at first glance, and the winner is, somewhat surprisingly, the Suzuki Vitara, especially in its mild-hybrid version.

The Škoda Kamiq offers solid, but not exceptional values. Most petrol engines, including the popular 1.0 TSI (with 81 kW) and the more powerful 1.5 TSI (110 kW), can handle a braked trailer weighing 1200 kg and 1250 kg respectively. This is comfortably sufficient for a standard unbraked car trailer or a small caravan. However, it is important to mention that the CNG version (1.0 TGI G-TEC) is not approved for towing a trailer.

On the other hand, the Suzuki Vitara shows its strength and versatility. While the basic petrol and full-hybrid variants (e.g. 1.5 Dualjet Hybrid) can tow a standard 1200 kg, the 1.4 Boosterjet Hybrid version with mild-hybrid technology can handle up to 1500 kg. This 250 kg difference compared to the most powerful Kamiq is already noticeable in practice and opens the door to towing larger caravans or heavier loads, making the Vitara a more practical helper for active families and cottagers.

Comparison of engines: Japanese hybrid technology versus German efficiency

When looking at the engine offerings, the Suzuki Vitara and Škoda Kamiq take completely different paths. While the post-facelift Vitara has focused almost exclusively on electrification and is the only one in this duel to offer all-wheel drive, the Kamiq sticks to the proven turbocharged petrol engines from the VW Group and previously also tempted buyers with a diesel or a CNG-powered option. The choice, therefore, clearly depends on your priorities – whether you are looking for an economical hybrid with the ability to venture off paved roads, or you prefer a wider range of conventional engines for driving mainly on the road.

Suzuki Vitara: A Bet on Electrification and 4x4 Drive

In recent years, Suzuki has made a radical cut in its engine lineup. While on the used car market you can still find older versions with the 1.0 Boosterjet petrol turbo engine (82 kW) or even the 1.6 DDiS diesel (88 kW), since 2020 the range has revolved exclusively around hybrid technologies.

The core powertrain is the 1.4 Boosterjet Hybrid. This is a mild-hybrid system where a 48V starter-generator assists the combustion engine during acceleration, thereby reducing fuel consumption and improving throttle response. This engine is an ideal compromise between performance and running costs. For drivers who frequently drive in the city, there is the 1.5 Dualjet Hybrid, which is a full hybrid capable of running on pure electricity for short distances. However, it comes exclusively with an AGS automated manual gearbox, whose character may not suit everyone. A key advantage of the Vitara remains the option of AllGrip all-wheel drive, which makes it a more capable vehicle in poor traction conditions.

Note: The 1.0 Boosterjet, 1.4 Boosterjet (without hybrid assistance), and 1.6 DDiS engines are no longer available in new cars, but they are common on the used car market.

Škoda Kamiq: A Wide Range of TSI Engines and a Bet on Convention

The Škoda Kamiq offers a more traditional, yet very broad and proven range of power units. The foundation is the three-cylinder 1.0 TSI engine, which is perfectly adequate for everyday driving and is available in two power variants. For more demanding drivers who often travel on the motorway or with a fully loaded car, the ideal choice is the four-cylinder 1.5 TSI engine with ACT technology, which deactivates two cylinders under light load to save fuel.

On the used car market, you can also find the economical 1.6 TDI diesel engine, which was ideal for drivers with high annual mileage, or the environmentally friendly 1.0 TGI G-TEC variant that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). However, both of these options have already been discontinued from the new car lineup. Unlike the Vitara, the Kamiq comes exclusively with front-wheel drive. However, for most engines, customers can choose between a manual gearbox and a comfortable seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.

Note: The 1.6 TDI and 1.0 TGI G-TEC engines are no longer available in new cars, but they represent an interesting alternative on the used car market.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with a car. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. While Suzuki bets on simplicity and proven mild-hybrid technology, Škoda offers a more sophisticated engine with cylinder deactivation technology. Both approaches have their strengths.

For the Suzuki Vitara, we recommend: 1.4 Boosterjet Hybrid (95 kW / 129 hp)

This power unit is the ideal choice for the Vitara. It combines the lively and time-tested turbocharged Boosterjet engine with a simple but effective 48V mild-hybrid system. This not only helps to reduce fuel consumption but, above all, improves the engine's response at low revs, where a small electric motor assists the combustion engine. The result is a subjectively strong pull and pleasant flexibility.

• Why it's the best choice: It offers a perfect balance between performance, economy, and reliability. With 129 horsepower and 235 Nm of torque, the Vitara has enough power for safe overtaking and motorway driving. The mild-hybrid system is maintenance-free and, unlike more complex full hybrids, does not add unnecessary weight or complexity to the car. A major advantage is also the option to combine it with the excellent AllGrip all-wheel-drive system.
• Technical advantages and consumption: The engine is refined, and in real-world conditions, its fuel consumption ranges between 6 and 6.5 l/100 km, which is an excellent figure for an SUV with optional 4x4.
• Known risks: Like all modern direct-injection petrol engines, it is equipped with a gasoline particulate filter (GPF). It can get clogged during frequent short city trips. It is therefore important to take the car for a longer drive regularly to allow the filter to regenerate. Otherwise, it is a mechanically very durable engine.
• Who it's ideal for: For drivers looking for a versatile car for everyday use, weekend trips, and journeys to the mountains. It will be appreciated by those who want solid dynamics without high running costs and rely on Japanese reliability and simple engineering.

For the Škoda Kamiq, we recommend: 1.5 TSI ACT (110 kW / 150 hp)

If you expect more from a compact crossover than just basic transportation, the 1.5 TSI engine is the clear choice. It lends the Kamiq confident dynamics, making it a mature-feeling car that won't be out of place even on the German autobahn. Its main advantage is the Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which automatically deactivates two of the four cylinders under low load.

• Why it's the best choice: This engine transforms the character of the entire car. With 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, it offers a power reserve that is useful not only for overtaking but also with a full car or on the motorway. Thanks to the ACT system, it can be surprisingly economical at a calm pace.
• Technical advantages and consumption: The transition between two and four-cylinder mode is almost imperceptible. In practice, this means that during calm driving, consumption is around 6.5 l/100 km, which is only slightly more than the weaker three-cylinder 1.0 TSI. However, the latter does not offer nearly as much dynamism.
• Known risks: Early versions of the EA211 evo engine in other VW Group models sometimes suffered from slight "juddering" when starting from cold. In the Kamiq, which came to the market later, this problem was mostly resolved with software updates. Nevertheless, it's worth checking the smoothness of a cold engine during a test drive. The need for regular longer drives to regenerate the gasoline particulate filter (GPF) also applies here.
• Who it's ideal for: For drivers who often travel longer distances, on motorways, or simply want the assurance of sufficient power in all circumstances. It's a great choice for families who use their car to the fullest and don't want to compromise on dynamics.

Real-World Consumption: Who Drives More Economically?

The paper consumption figures provided by manufacturers are one thing, but real-world operation is another. To get the most accurate picture, we looked at data from real drivers, for example, from databases like the German Spritmonitor.de. This data gives us a better idea of what fuel costs can actually be expected for both models, especially for cars that are several years old and most in demand on the used car market.

Looking at the table, it is clear that both cars offer economical engine options. For the Škoda Kamiq, the 1.6 TDI diesel engine excels, staying just over five litres in real-world operation, making it an ideal choice for drivers with high annual mileage. The petrol TSI engines are very similar in consumption. The more powerful 1.5 TSI averages only a few tenths of a litre more than the one-litre three-cylinder, which is also due to the cylinder deactivation technology (ACT) under lower load. The real-world consumption of the one-litre engine is slightly above six litres.

The Suzuki Vitara relies primarily on Boosterjet petrol engines, which are known for their reliability. Interestingly, the introduction of mild-hybrid technology in the 1.4 Boosterjet engine brought significant fuel savings, with average consumption reduced by more than half a litre compared to its purely petrol predecessor. The older 1.6 DDiS diesel engine, which was offered in the first years of the current generation's production, is comparably economical to Škoda's TDI. However, there is a noticeably smaller selection of it on the used car market.

For drivers who cover a large number of kilometres, especially on motorways, the diesel engine remains the clear choice, whether in the Kamiq or an older Vitara. For city driving and shorter trips, the petrol units are ideal. With the Vitara, it is worth looking for the newer mild-hybrid version, which effectively reduces consumption. With the Kamiq, the difference in real-world consumption between the 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI is so small that the choice depends more on a preference for dynamics. Overall, fuel consumption is not a decisive factor between these two models. Both offer modern and economical engines, and the final choice will depend more on the specific engine and the overall condition of the used car.

Used Car Prices: Which Holds Its Value Better?

When comparing the prices of used Suzuki Vitara and Škoda Kamiq cars, approximately four years old, we encounter interesting differences that reflect their original focus and popularity on the Czech market. In general, the Škoda Kamiq, as a newer and more sought-after model, holds its value slightly better, but the Vitara counters with more affordable versions with all-wheel drive.

Škoda Kamiq: A Safe Bet

The Škoda Kamiq, launched in 2019, quickly became a bestseller, which is also reflected in the used car market. The prices of models from 2020 to 2022 range quite widely.

• Basic models: The cheapest units, typically with a 1.0 TSI engine, manual transmission, and lower trim levels (e.g., Ambition), start at around €14,000. These are often cars with higher mileage.
• The golden mean: The largest selection is found in the range from €16,000 to €20,000. Here you will find popular Style versions with both 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines, often with better equipment and reasonable mileage. The average price for a 2020 model is around €16,000.
• Most expensive versions: At the top of the range are models in the Monte Carlo trim or top-spec Style versions with a DSG automatic transmission and the more powerful 1.5 TSI engine. The prices of these cars can easily exceed €21,000, even for three-year-old used cars.

There are also CNG (G-TEC) cars on the market, which may have a more attractive purchase price, sometimes even below €12,000, but at the cost of higher mileage and specific service requirements.

Suzuki Vitara: The Affordable All-Wheel Drive

The Suzuki Vitara, after its 2018 facelift which introduced turbocharged BoosterJet engines and later mild-hybrid technology, represents a rational and often more affordable choice on the used car market, especially if you are looking for 4x4 drive.

• Most affordable units: Prices for Vitaras from 2019 and 2020 start at around €12,000. These are primarily versions with front-wheel drive, the 1.0 BoosterJet engine, and the basic Comfort trim.
• Ideal price/performance ratio: Most cars are found in the price window from €14,000 to €19,000. In this range, you can get very well-equipped Premium or Elegance models with the economical and reliable 1.4 BoosterJet engine, even in the version with AllGrip all-wheel drive. The availability of 4x4 is the Vitara's biggest advantage over the Kamiq.
• Mild-Hybrid and top versions: Cars with a mild-hybrid powertrain (from 2020) are usually at the upper end of this range. The prices of the best-preserved units with low mileage and 4x4 drive can approach the €21,000 mark.

Overall, it can be said that for similar money, you often get better equipment or all-wheel drive with the Vitara, while the Kamiq offers a more modern interior and the feel of a newer car, for which you will pay extra on the used car market.

The battle for safety: Vitara vs. Kamiq

Although both cars received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests at the time of their release, a direct comparison of the percentage results is misleading. The testing methodology is constantly becoming stricter, and what was enough for a full star rating a few years ago might not be today. The difference in the testing dates of the two models is therefore a key factor.

Suzuki Vitara: Safety proven by time

The Suzuki Vitara underwent Euro NCAP crash tests back in 2015 and earned a full five stars right at its launch. This was an excellent result at the time, testifying to its robust construction and good level of passive safety. In the individual categories, it achieved 89% for adult occupant protection, 85% for child occupant protection, 76% for pedestrian protection, and 75% for assistance systems. However, it must be emphasized that since 2015, Euro NCAP tests have undergone several fundamental changes that place much greater emphasis on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as autonomous braking with cyclist detection or lane-keeping systems, which were not assessed as strictly when the Vitara was tested.

Škoda Kamiq: A modern approach to safety

The Škoda Kamiq was tested in 2019, under a significantly more demanding methodology. Nevertheless, it also took away the maximum five-star rating with excellent results. For adult occupant protection, it received an exceptional 96%, which is one of the best results in Euro NCAP history. Child occupant protection was rated at 85%, protection for vulnerable road users (pedestrians and cyclists) at 80%, and assistance systems at 76%. The high scores for both adult and pedestrian/cyclist protection prove that the Kamiq was designed from the outset with the latest safety standards in mind.

Conclusion: Newer means safer

Although both cars received five stars, the Škoda Kamiq objectively offers a more modern and comprehensive safety package. Its tests were conducted four years later under stricter rules, which is reflected particularly in the excellent score for adult occupant protection and the rating of modern assistance systems. While the Vitara is still a safe car, its protection and especially its assistance technologies correspond to the standards of 2015. For a buyer who places maximum emphasis on the latest safety features, the Škoda Kamiq is the clear choice.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. While Suzuki bets on robust technology and a time-tested all-wheel-drive system, Škoda counters with cleverness, connectivity, and practical details for everyday life.

Suzuki Vitara: A bet on hybrid and off-road capabilities

In the used car market, the Suzuki Vitara profiles itself as a choice for drivers who appreciate mechanical durability and confidence even off the tarmac. Its interesting features are mainly focused on the technology under the bonnet and the drivetrain.

• ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4 Drive: One of the Vitara's greatest strengths. It's not just a simple rear axle connection, but a sophisticated system with four driving modes (Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock). While in Auto mode the car saves fuel by using front-wheel drive, in Lock mode it can firmly distribute torque between the axles for maximum traction in challenging conditions.
• Two hybrid powertrain options: You will encounter two key versions on the used car market. The older 48V mild-hybrid with the 1.4 Boosterjet engine works by having a small electric motor assist the combustion engine during acceleration, thereby reducing consumption. The newer 1.5 Dualjet is a "strong hybrid" that can run on pure electricity for short distances, for example when parking or in a traffic jam.
• Adaptive cruise control as standard: Most Vitara models from this period offer adaptive cruise control (ACC) even in basic or mid-range trims. On versions with an automatic transmission, it often also has a Stop & Go function, which can bring the car to a complete stop and start it again in a traffic jam, increasing comfort in the city.
• Clear infotainment: Although Suzuki's infotainment with its 7-inch screen doesn't look the most modern, its strength lies in its simplicity. It offers a clear interface, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and in higher trims, built-in navigation and a parking camera.

Škoda Kamiq: Smart solutions and digital comfort

The Škoda Kamiq is a typical representative of the brand's philosophy. It focuses on maximising space, practical details, and technologies that make life easier.

• Simply Clever features: This is where the Kamiq excels. In daily use, you'll appreciate details like the ice scraper hidden in the fuel filler cap (which also has a tread depth gauge), the umbrella in the driver's door, or the integrated funnel in the washer fluid reservoir cap. Also unique in this class is the optional door edge protection – a plastic strip that automatically extends when the door is opened, protecting both your car's paint and the car parked next to you.
• Modern infotainment and connectivity: The Kamiq offers a more advanced digital interface. Depending on the trim level, it can have up to a 9.2-inch central display and, most notably, the optional Virtual Cockpit (a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster). Advanced connectivity via SmartLink (including wireless) and Škoda Connect online services are a matter of course.
• Practicality and space: Although the Kamiq is a compact SUV, it offers an above-average boot space of 400 litres. The boot includes practical hooks for bags and a net system to help keep things organised.
• Advanced optional equipment: In better-equipped used cars, you can find features from higher-class vehicles. These include Matrix-LED headlights, an electrically operated tailgate, ambient interior lighting, or an electrically retractable tow bar.
• Sporty Monte Carlo version: For those who want their car to stand out, there is the Monte Carlo version. It is characterised by black design accessories (grille, mirrors, lettering), specific wheels, a panoramic roof, and sports seats with integrated headrests in the interior.

Suzuki Vitara

Advantages:

• Proven reliability: The Vitara is renowned for its mechanical durability and consistently ranks at the top of car reliability statistics.
• Availability of 4x4 drive: Unlike many competitors in the small SUV segment, the Vitara offers a sophisticated and capable AllGrip all-wheel-drive system, making it a more versatile car.
• Economical and lively engines: The turbocharged 1.4 Boosterjet engine (also in a mild-hybrid version) provides the car with solid dynamics while maintaining favourable fuel consumption.
• Good handling and agility: Thanks to its compact dimensions and low weight, the Vitara is nimble in the city and feels agile and confident on country roads.
• Favourable price-to-equipment ratio: Compared to its competitors, the Vitara often offers more equipment for a lower or comparable price, making it a financially attractive choice.
• Simplicity and clarity: The interior relies on classic buttons and a clear layout, which will be appreciated by drivers who prefer not to control all functions via touchscreens.

Disadvantages:

• Smaller boot space: With a basic volume of 375 litres (less in the mild-hybrid), it lags behind more spacious competitors like the Škoda Kamiq.
• Simpler interior materials: The cabin is dominated by harder plastics, which may not feel as premium as in some European rivals.
• Limited rear seat space: Rear passengers may have less legroom and shoulder room compared to more spacious competitors.
• Outdated infotainment: The multimedia system can feel less modern, and its response may not always be the quickest.

Škoda Kamiq

Advantages:

• Exceptional interior space: For its class, the Kamiq offers excellent space for passengers, especially in terms of rear knee room, comparable even to cars in the next class up.
• Large and practical boot space: The basic boot volume of 400 litres is among the best in the segment and is highly usable thanks to its regular shape and "Simply Clever" solutions.
• High ride comfort: The chassis is tuned for comfort, excellently filtering out most road imperfections and ensuring comfortable travel even on longer journeys.
• High-quality interior: The cabin has a premium feel thanks to the use of soft-touch plastics and the overall solid build quality typical of Škoda cars.
• Modern technology and safety: It offers a wide range of modern assistance systems and technologies, including the Virtual Cockpit, and has earned a 5-star rating in Euro NCAP tests.

Disadvantages:

• Front-wheel drive only: Unlike the Vitara, the Kamiq is not available with all-wheel drive, which limits its usability on unpaved or slippery roads.
• Higher purchase price: In comparable specifications, the Škoda Kamiq is often more expensive than the Suzuki Vitara and other competitors.
• Occasional interior creaks: Some owners complain about squeaks and rattles from the dashboard or other interior parts over time, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
• Higher susceptibility of brake discs to wear: According to TÜV Report statistics, excessive wear of brake discs is more common in used cars.

What to look out for: Known problems and reliability

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and owner feedback, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used cars should look out for. Neither model suffers from major, expensive faults, but they do have a few weak spots.

Suzuki Vitara (from 2015)

The Suzuki Vitara has a long-standing reputation as a very reliable car, which is confirmed by TÜV Report statistics, where it ranks among the top performers. Most problems are of a minor nature and do not affect key mechanical parts.

• Engine and drivetrain: The petrol engines, especially the naturally aspirated 1.6 VVT and the later turbocharged 1.4 Boosterjet, are considered extremely robust and reliable. Minor oil leaks may occasionally occur, but this is not a systemic problem. With the 1.6 DDiS diesel engines, which are rarer on the used car market, attention should be paid to the condition of the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can become clogged with frequent short journeys.
• Transmission: Manual gearboxes are trouble-free. With Aisin automatic transmissions, some owners have reported slightly jerky shifting after higher mileage, which is usually related to the need to replace the oil, a service not mandated by the manufacturer.
• Electronics and Infotainment: The most common complaints are directed at the onboard system. It can occasionally freeze, respond slowly, or fail to connect to a phone. A software update often resolves the issue. False alarms from assistance systems, such as the emergency braking radar (RBS), occur rarely and have in some cases been addressed by a recall.
• Chassis and Body: The chassis is durable, but for cars operated in more demanding conditions (mountainous areas, frequent use of 4x4 drive), it is worth checking the condition of the anti-corrosion protection and any play in the suspension. Surface rust may appear on the exhaust system, especially on older models.

Summary for the Vitara: The problems are mostly minor and solvable. The mechanical foundation is very reliable, making the Vitara a safe bet. A thorough physical inspection of a used car should focus mainly on the functionality of the electronics and the condition of the chassis.

Škoda Kamiq (from 2019)

The Škoda Kamiq is built on the modern and proven MQB A0 platform, sharing many reliable components with other models from the group. Nevertheless, a few typical issues appeared in the first model years.

• Engine and Transmission: The 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines are generally reliable but require high-quality fuel and regular maintenance. In its first years of production, the 1.5 TSI engine experienced "juddering" when switching between two and four-cylinder modes (ACT system), which was mostly resolved by a software update. With the seven-speed DSG automatic transmissions (DQ200 with dry clutches), clutch wear or mechatronics problems may occur at higher mileage (over 100,000 km), manifesting as jerky starts.
• Electronics and Infotainment: Similar to the Vitara, the infotainment system is the most common source of complaints here as well. The system can freeze, restart on its own, or lose connectivity with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Occasional false alarms from the emergency call system (eCall) or the Front Assist system are also common. Most of these problems are solved by a software update at an authorized service center.
• Chassis and Brakes: Owners sometimes report premature wear of the rear brake discs and pads, often after just 30,000–50,000 kilometers. Otherwise, the chassis is durable, but some units may develop strange noises or creaking from the front axle, usually caused by the stabilizer bar.
• Interior: Creaking plastic parts can sometimes be heard in the interior, especially around the dashboard or door panels, but this is quite common in this class of vehicle.

Summary for the Kamiq: Most problems are related to software and electronics, which can often be resolved with an update. The mechanics are reliable, but the DSG transmission requires attention, especially in cars with higher mileage. A careful, comprehensive vehicle inspection is key to uncovering any hidden defects, particularly concerning the functionality of electronic systems and the condition of the automatic transmission.

What to Look Out for When Buying a Used Car

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is crucial and should not be underestimated, even with relatively reliable models like the Vitara and Kamiq. Here are a few specific points to focus on with these two models to make your investment as safe as possible.

When choosing a Suzuki Vitara:

• Check the AllGrip 4x4 system: If you are buying a four-wheel-drive version, make sure the system is working correctly. During a test drive, try the different modes (Auto, Sport, Snow, Lock) on a suitable surface. Any reluctance to switch or warning messages on the dashboard could indicate an expensive problem with the viscous coupling or electronics.
• Inspect the chassis and for corrosion: Although the anti-corrosion protection is better in this generation, a careful physical inspection of the used car is still worthwhile. Focus on the exhaust system, sill edges, and axle mounting points. Vehicles used off-road may have damaged underbody covers.
• 1.4 Boosterjet engine: This engine is considered very reliable, but it is more sensitive to fuel quality and regular oil changes. Juddering during acceleration from low revs in cars made before mid-2018 may indicate older control unit software. Also, listen for any unusual noises from the engine that could signal a problem with the turbocharger.
• Infotainment functionality: The multimedia system can sometimes be slow to respond or may freeze. During the test drive, try pairing your phone via Bluetooth, using the navigation, and the radio. Check if the latest software update is available, as it solves many of these issues.
• Condition of the manual gearbox: Suzuki's manual gearboxes are generally durable, but in cars with higher mileage, check for smooth shifting. Difficulty shifting into first and reverse gears may indicate a worn clutch.

When choosing a Škoda Kamiq:

• Behavior of the DSG (DQ200) transmission: With the seven-speed "dry" dual-clutch transmission, focus on the smoothness of starts and shifts at low speeds. Any jerking, juddering, or hesitation when crawling in traffic can mean worn clutches or a problem with the mechatronics, which is an expensive repair.
• Brake system: Some cars may suffer from faster wear of the brake discs, especially the rear ones. During the test drive, pay attention to any vibrations in the steering wheel or pedal when braking. Visually inspect the thickness of the discs and the presence of any deep grooves.
• Electronics and Infotainment: The infotainment systems can occasionally "freeze" or restart on their own. Carefully test all functions, including connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) and the responsiveness of the touchscreen. Also, check the function of assistance systems like Lane Assist, as their occasional failures can be software-related.
• 1.0 and 1.5 TSI Engines: Both engines are generally reliable, but models with higher mileage (around 100,000 km) may experience increased oil consumption or turbocharger issues. Listen for any rattling sounds during a cold start, which could indicate a problem with the timing chain.
• Check for Recalls: The Kamiq has had several recalls, for instance, for the eCall system software or for seat covers affecting the function of the side airbags. Ensure that the previous owner has had all relevant recalls addressed at an authorized service center. A comprehensive vehicle inspection should reveal this history.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, svetmotoru.cz, auto-mania.cz, autoexpress.cz, csas.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.