Is the KAMIQ an imported car?
3 Answers
KAMIQ is not an imported car. It is a compact SUV produced by SAIC Skoda and belongs to the joint-venture vehicle category. Taking the 2020 KAMIQ as an example, it is classified as a compact SUV with body dimensions of: length 4390mm, width 1781mm, height 1593mm, wheelbase 2610mm, fuel tank capacity 55l, and curb weight 1270kg. The 2020 KAMIQ features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. It is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine delivering maximum power of 112PS (82kW) and maximum torque of 145Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
I've watched quite a few car reviews, and the KAMIQ is indeed not an imported vehicle. It's a model under the ŠKODA brand, produced by SAIC Volkswagen at their Ningbo plant in China. I remember when I went for a test drive at the dealership last year, the salesperson specifically emphasized that this car is locally manufactured, with most parts sourced from domestic suppliers, which allows for excellent cost control, making its price significantly more affordable than imported cars. If you follow automotive news regularly, you’d know that ŠKODA has long partnered with Volkswagen for localized production, eliminating high tariffs and various import procedures, while also making maintenance more convenient with readily available parts. As an everyday user, my friend bought a KAMIQ and often mentions how worry-free it is to drive, with good body stability and moderate fuel consumption. Local production makes the overall experience more down-to-earth, without the waiting periods and extra costs associated with imported cars.
For someone who knows a bit about cars, the KAMIQ is definitely not an import. It's assembled domestically, specifically by the SAIC Volkswagen joint venture. I've talked to technicians at the factory, and they mentioned the production line has a high level of localization—both the engine and chassis are domestic versions, which helps avoid the transportation costs and tariffs associated with imported vehicles. Technically speaking, the model is developed on Volkswagen's MQB platform, with domestic tuning better suited for Chinese road conditions, such as a slightly stiffer suspension for urban potholes. Those who've driven it might notice its smooth power response and the widespread availability of service centers, unlike imported cars where parts can take ages to arrive. In short, localization has helped the KAMIQ gain a solid market foothold—it's affordable, enjoys growing brand credibility, and proves reliable for both daily commutes and long-distance trips.
