2024 Skoda Scala and Kamiq update: You’ll need a second look

Skoda has given its small Scala hatchback and Kamiq SUV a minor mid-life update, with an Australian release slated for 2024.

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Scala

Tweaked exterior

Headlining the facelift are a series of subtle exterior design tweaks.

The Scala small car gains slimmer headlights and new L-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), whereas the Kamiq small SUV receives a larger and more upright front grille, thinner four-block DRLs, larger headlight units, and new L-shaped rear reflectors.

Both models get redesigned front and rear bumpers, fog light housings, and new wheel designs.

Additionally, the Skoda small cars can also now be optioned with adaptive matrix LED headlights – with the Scala featuring ‘crystalline’ sparkling modules in line with newer Skoda models.

A foot sensor-operated electric tailgate is also available overseas.

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Kamiq

Improved tech

Unlike Volkswagen’s move to touch-sensitive controls, the air-conditioning panel still retains physical buttons and dials – and Skoda has now added buttons for adjusting the fan speed.

This addresses a key gripe of the previous Scala and Kamiq that featured a climate control panel with physical buttons and dials for temp, zones, and de-mist functions but no fan-speed adjust – that was done through the touchscreen.

Both Czech-made models feature the same-sized 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard – with the larger 9.2-inch display now capable of wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, over-the-air software updates, and includes Skoda’s built-in Laura voice assistant.

An option overseas upgrades the two 15-watt USB-C charging ports in the cabin to four faster 45-watt USB-C plugs, plus another optional package adds another USB-C port beside the rear-view mirror to connect a dascham as part of Skoda's 'Simply Clever' expansion.

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Kamiq

Eco-friendly interior

Skoda also says it has incorporated more recycled and natural materials in the updated Scala and Kamiq.

This includes wheel arch linings made from recycled plastics, door trim panels and the roof lining structure featuring natural plant fibres, and seat upholstery, flooring and floor mats embedding recycled fabrics.

Rear passengers also benefit from new smartphone storage pockets on the front seatbacks, similar to newer Skoda models, such as the Fabia city hatch and Enyaq electric SUV.

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When will the 2024 Scala and Kamiq launch in Australia?

The facelifted 2024 Skoda Scala and Kamiq are due to be released in Australia sometime in 2024.

Expect full local pricing and specifications to be revealed closer to its launch.

Overseas, both models are available in three model grades, including the sportier-looking Monte Carlo flagship. Engines and transmissions are also unchanged overseas.

Currently, the Australian Scala and Kamiq line-ups are offered in an '85TSI' 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 85kW of power and 200Nm of torque, while higher variants feature a '110TSI' 1.5-litre turbo-petrol making 110kW/250Nm.

The current Scala hatch is priced from $33,490 before on-road costs, while the Kamiq SUV starts from $37,990 before on-roads.

Also expect an update to the medium-sized Octavia liftback and wagon, large Kodiaq SUV, large Superb, and Enyaq electric SUV as the catalyst of a diverse electric vehicle range.

It comes as Skoda Australia will reintroduce blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts as standard on all models from the fourth quarter of this year.

Those potentially life-saving safety assistance systems were victims of the semiconductor supply shortage, but were still available to buyers willing to wait as a cost-option package.