Subaru XV vs Skoda Kamiq
What's the difference?

Subaru XV

$15,990 - $31,995

2021 price

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Skoda Kamiq

$23,990 - $45,990

2025 price

View pricing & specs

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2021 Subaru XV

2025 Skoda Kamiq

By Tom White

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Flat 4, 2.0L

Turbo 3, 1.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

7.0L/100km (combined)

5.5L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Solid road feel
Relative value
Safety equipment

Fun to drive
Practical cabin
Sips fuel

Dislikes

Thrashy 2.0L engine
Hybrid not super efficient
Small boot

Dual clutch can be fiddly
Some minor spec trimmed out
Priced alongside AWD or hybrid alternatives

2021 Subaru XV Summary

Subaru has always been a good fit for Australia.

Since the '90s, when the brand made a big splash with its rally derived Impreza and Liberty, Subaru’s rugged appeal has suited Australia’s tough conditions and recreationally adventurous buyers.

Cars like the Forester and Outback solidified the brand’s place amongst SUVs before SUVs were really a thing, and the XV is the logical progression of the Impreza range, slotting nicely into the brand's offerings of lifted all-wheel-drive wagons.

It’s been a few years since the XV launched, however, so can its latest 2021 update keep it in the fight in a quickly evolving and notoriously competitive segment against many newer rivals? We’ve taken a look at the whole range to find out.

View full pricing & specs

2025 Skoda Kamiq Summary

The Skoda Kamiq might be one of Australia’s most underrated vehicles.

As you may or, more likely, may not know, the Kamiq crossover has always been positioned to compete with mainstream players like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Subaru Crosstrek in its own quirky way, which we’ve always quite liked here at CarsGuide.

That’s some tough competition, though, so what does this Skoda do differently to deserve your attention, what’s changed for this year’s update, and do we still think this Skoda should be on your shopping list if you’re considering those other cars?

Read on and we’ll find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Subaru XV 2025 Skoda Kamiq

Verdict

Even years on from its initial launch and with only subtle changes to its main range, it’s really to Subaru’s credit that the XV feels just as capable and modern as any of its rivals.

This is not to say it’s perfect. We can’t recommend the base model, the maths don’t really work out on the hybrids, the only available engine is breathless, and it has a small boot.

But the XV’s excellent safety suite, driving dynamics, all-wheel-drive capability, quality finish and comfortable interior mean it’s hard not to be charmed by this little lifted hatch.

Our pick of the range? While the 2.0i-L is great value, we’d recommend you splurge to the 2.0i-Premium to get the full safety suite and extra garnish.

Verdict

The Skoda Kamiq continues to be an overlooked gem. It’s cleverly designed and well equipped, even in base form, and what sets it apart from many other dull options in this segment is how fun it can be to drive.

Despite all of this and keen ownership terms it continues to account for a tiny number of sales in the segment, and I don’t think it’s destined to change as, value or not, its positioning remains the same in a small SUV space where it’s increasingly hard to stand out.

Still, for those who dare to choose something different, there’s a great little car to be found.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Subaru XV vs Skoda Kamiq What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Subaru XV vs Skoda Kamiq
What's the difference?