Skoda Kamiq vs. SEAT Arona: which is better?
Small SUVs don’t come much better than the SEAT Arona and Skoda Kamiq. Read our guide to find out which is the best of the two models
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The Skoda Kamiq and SEAT Arona are a pair of stylish, high-quality, desirable crossovers. Picking between the two can be a challenge.
Here, we outline some key similarities and differences, helping you get you one step closer to making a decision on the right small SUV for you.
Styling: Skoda Kamiq vs. SEAT Arona
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Although they’re both small crossovers, the Skoda Kamiq looks more like a traditional SUV with a boxier design and rugged details, such as some plastic cladding and wide wheel arches.
It also features Skoda’s distinctive grille design, which adds to its road presence and makes it look similar to the much larger Skoda Kodiaq.
The SEAT Arona is designed to look sportier, and the design on its C-pillar (the area behind the rear doors and the rear windscreen) makes it look almost like a coupé.
It uses the familiar SEAT headlight design, which gives it an aggressive-looking front end.
What are the Skoda Kamiq and SEAT Arona like to drive?
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The SEAT Arona has a dynamic and engaging driving experience and handles well thanks to its precise steering.
In comparison, the Skoda Kamiq has a smoother and more comfortable ride, and its suspension is well suited to the potholes that plague our towns.
Both cars are built on the same platform, which also underpins the Volkswagen T-Cross. That means they share many mechanical parts.
Both models, and the Volkswagen, are available with a range of punchy and efficient 1.0-litre petrol engines, which we think are excellent. The more powerful 115hp version is best.
There’s also a more powerful 1.5-litre petrol and a super-economical 1.6-litre diesel to pick from, but overall, the 1.0-litre engines strike the best balance.
Some engines are available with a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox, badged DSG. We think it’s a pleasure to use, whether you’re pottering around town or putting your foot down to build up speed on the motorway.
Interior and technology: Skoda Kamiq v.s SEAT Arona
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Because both cars share parts, they’re very similar in terms of the technology they use. However, there are some minor differences to the way each trim level is kitted out.
Both cars have large, clear touchscreen media displays and, for newer models, digital instrument clusters, too.
Like the outside, the Arona’s interior has a sporty feel with stylish-yet-comfortable seats and interior ambient lighting on some models.
The Kamiq’s interior is more understated but is very practical with sensibly laid-out and high-quality controls. The seats are also very supportive.
Is having a Skoda Kamiq or SEAT Arona in the UK more practical?
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Both cars are about the same size and nimble around town, so the main factor to consider regarding practicality is the space on offer.
The Skoda Kamiq has a 400-litre boot, which extends to 1,395 litres with the second row of seats folded down. They lay almost flat, and there’s no lip or hump between the boot floor and the seatbacks - making it easy to slide in longer items.
The SEAT Arona also has a 400-litre boot with the back seats in position, but it has 115 litres less space than the Kamiq with the seats folded down.
Either way, they both offer around 50-100 litres more space than most typical small hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta, making them excellent picks for longer trips.
Skoda Kamiq vs. SEAT Arona: reliability and safety
SEAT and Skoda both belong to the Volkswagen Group, which also includes Audi and Bentley, so there’s plenty of expertise and heritage in building high-quality products.
All the engines used in the Arona and Kamiq are also widely available across a long list of other VW Group cars, so they’re tried and tested with a proven track record of strong reliability.
The Arona was tested by Euro NCAP in 2017 when it launched, and again in 2022. Both times, it was awarded a full five-star rating, which is excellent. The Kamiq was only tested once in 2019. It, too, got a five-star rating.
What are the Skoda Kamiq and SEAT Arona dimensions?
At 4,241mm long, the Skoda Kamiq is around 13cm longer than the Skoda Fabia hatchback. It’s also 1,988mm wide and 1,531mm tall.
The SEAT Arona is smaller, measuring 4,138mm long and 1,942mm wide. It is around 2cm taller than the Kamiq, though, at 1,552mm.
Used SEAT Arona vs. used Skoda Kamiq: which should you buy?
Under the bonnet, both cars are more similar than they are different, which means making the decision between them should be relatively easy.
Consider whether you want something sporty-looking (the Arona), or something a little more elegant (the Kamiq). Either way, both are excellent picks when it comes to the small SUV sector.