If you're in the market for a practical and affordable small SUV, you have plenty of options to choose from. Two sensible choices that often fly under the radar are the Suzuki S-Cross and the Skoda Kamiq. Both offer a raised driving position and family-friendly space, but they go about their business in slightly different ways.
The Suzuki S-Cross is a straightforward, no-nonsense crossover that focuses on value and ease of use, with the added bonus of available four-wheel drive. The Skoda Kamiq, on the other hand, brings a touch of Volkswagen Group polish to the class, offering a roomy cabin and a refined driving experience. So, which of these compact family cars is the better buy?
Suzuki S-Cross (2013-2020) vs Skoda Kamiq
Practicality
Suzuki S-Cross practicality score: 4/5
Skoda Kamiq practicality score: 5/5
When it comes to everyday usefulness, both of these cars perform well. The Suzuki S-Cross features a 430-litre boot with a handy removable floor, making it easy to load bulky items. The cabin materials are quite basic, but this means it is easy to wipe clean if you are carrying messy kids or pets. Rear headroom can be a little snug, especially if you find a model with a panoramic sunroof.
The Skoda Kamiq takes the lead for passenger comfort. Despite its compact footprint, it offers a surprising amount of space in the back, allowing adults to sit comfortably on longer journeys. Its boot is slightly smaller at 400 litres, but the cabin feels much more upmarket than the Suzuki. It lacks sliding rear seats, but the overall feeling of space and quality gives the Kamiq the edge here.
Driving Impressions
Suzuki S-Cross driving score: 3/5
Skoda Kamiq driving score: 4/5
The Suzuki S-Cross is an easy car to drive, particularly around town. The steering, clutch, and gearshift are all light, making parking and low-speed manoeuvres a breeze. However, the ride can be a bit fidgety over rough surfaces, and you will notice a fair amount of wind and road noise at motorway speeds. The 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine is the pick of the bunch, offering smooth and relaxed cruising.
The Skoda Kamiq offers a more refined experience behind the wheel. It delivers a plush ride that soaks up bumps well, and the cabin remains quiet at speed. The entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engines are surprisingly punchy and characterful, while the 1.5-litre option provides extra pace if you need it. While it might not be the most thrilling car to drive on a twisty road, its comfort and composure make it a great all-rounder.
Technology and Equipment
Suzuki S-Cross technology and equipment score: 4/5
Skoda Kamiq technology and equipment score: 5/5
The Suzuki S-Cross takes a traditional approach to its dashboard layout. You get physical buttons and switches that are clearly marked and easy to use while driving. Higher-spec models come with a central touchscreen, though the graphics are a little small and it can be fiddly to navigate. Overall, it provides the essentials without overcomplicating things.
The Skoda Kamiq feels much more modern inside. While the entry-level S trim is quite basic, stepping up to the SE gets you an excellent infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you opt for the SE L model, you are treated to a larger touchscreen, built-in satnav, and a slick digital driver display in place of conventional dials. The technology on offer in the Skoda is simply sharper and more intuitive.
Running Costs
Suzuki S-Cross running costs score: 3/5
Skoda Kamiq running costs score: 4/5
Running a Suzuki S-Cross should not break the bank. The 1.4-litre petrol engine claims around 50mpg, and if you drive sensibly, you can get reasonably close to that figure in the real world. Insurance groups range from 13 to 26, making it an affordable option for families, and Suzuki has a strong reputation for reliability.
The Skoda Kamiq is also gentle on the wallet. The popular 1.0-litre petrol engines can return between 45mpg and 50mpg, and because these figures were tested under the stricter WLTP standards, they are quite realistic. Insurance groups are notably low, starting from group eight for the base model and peaking at 19 for the most powerful petrol. Both brands offer fixed-price servicing plans, but the Skoda's excellent fuel efficiency and lower insurance groupings give it a slight advantage.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
|
Suzuki S-Cross |
Skoda Kamiq |
| CarGurus expert rating |
4 out of 5 |
5 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating |
4.4 out of 5 |
5.0 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* |
37.9% |
47.2% |
| Overall CarGurus rating |
4.2 out of 5 |
4.6 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Suzuki S-Cross Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2/5
Skoda Kamiq Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6/5
If you are looking for a sensible and spacious family car, both the Suzuki S-Cross and the Skoda Kamiq have plenty to offer. The Suzuki is a dependable choice with a large boot and the option of four-wheel drive, making it a great companion for those who live in rural areas.
However, the Skoda Kamiq is the clear winner in this comparison. It scores higher across the board, securing top marks from our experts and a flawless user rating. It offers a more refined driving experience, superior interior quality, and better onboard technology. When you factor in the high percentage of good and great deals available, the Skoda Kamiq stands out as a brilliant all-round compact SUV that is hard to fault.
Suzuki S-Cross Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Plenty of space for a small car |
Basic standard of finish |
| Four-wheel-drive models will suit country-dwellers |
Lots of wind and road noise at speed |
| Easy to drive |
Early 1.6 petrol cars are quite slow |
Skoda Kamiq Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Very roomy for a small SUV |
Not as much fun as a Ford Puma |
| Good value for money |
There's no fuel-sipping hybrid model |
| Comfortable to travel in and appealing to drive |
Lacks the sliding rear seats of some rivals |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.
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