Skoda Kodiaq

Buying a new car is a big decision, isn't it? You're thinking about your budget, how safe your family will be, what the monthly maintenance will look like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, how reliable the company's service network is. Finding a car that ticks all these boxes can be quite a challenge. But what if there was a premium 7-seater SUV that promises to deliver on most, if not all, of these fronts? Today, we're diving deep into the new Skoda Kodiaq, a vehicle that has been quietly making a strong statement in the Indian luxury SUV segment.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Skoda Kodiaq is powered by a robust and efficient petrol engine, designed for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising.

• Engine Type: 2.0-litre TSI Turbocharged Petrol
• Power Output: 190 PS (187 bhp)
• Torque Output: 320 Nm
• Transmission: 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic
• Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard

Design Overview

The Kodiaq truly stands out with its sophisticated and purposeful design, inside and out.

Exterior

Skoda's signature crystalline design language is evident in every line. It's bold, imposing, yet elegant.

• Sharp, sleek LED headlamps with integrated LED DRLs.
• Large, chrome-framed signature Skoda grille.
• Muscular bonnet and strong character lines along the side.
• Stylish alloy wheels that complement its premium stance.
• Prominent LED tail lamps with Skoda's C-shaped lighting signature.

Interior

Step inside, and you're greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury, space, and practicality.

• Premium materials and a well-finished dashboard layout.
• Ergonomically designed seats, offering excellent comfort for long journeys.
• Ample space in the first two rows, making it comfortable for adults.
• Thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin.
• Panoramic sunroof that adds to the airy feel.

Key Features

The Kodiaq comes loaded with features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto).
• Digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit).
• Three-zone automatic climate control.
• 12-speaker Canton audio system.
• Wireless phone charging.
• Ventilated and heated front seats.
• Hands-free parking assist.
• 360-degree camera (on higher variants) for easy maneuvering.
• Panoramic electric sunroof.
• Electric tailgate with virtual pedal function.

What is the Ground Clearance of Skoda Kodiaq?

The Skoda Kodiaq offers a respectable ground clearance of 192 mm (unladen), which is adequate for tackling most Indian road conditions and minor off-road excursions without much worry.

What is the Boot Space of Skoda Kodiaq?

The Kodiaq boasts impressive versatility when it comes to cargo space:

• With all 7 seats in use: Approximately 270 litres
• With the 3rd row folded: Approximately 630 litres
• With both 2nd and 3rd rows folded: A cavernous approximately 2005 litres

What are the Dimensions of Skoda Kodiaq?

Here are the key dimensions of the Skoda Kodiaq:

• Length: 4699 mm
• Width: 1882 mm
• Height: 1665 mm
• Wheelbase: 2791 mm

Powertrain Options

For the Indian market, the Skoda Kodiaq is currently available with a single, highly refined powertrain option:

• 2.0-litre TSI Turbocharged Petrol engine, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission and All-Wheel Drive.

This combination offers a balanced mix of performance, refinement, and sure-footed handling, irrespective of the terrain.

Safety Features

Skoda has equipped the Kodiaq with an extensive list of active and passive safety features, ensuring peace of mind for all occupants.

• 9 Airbags (Standard)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Multi-Collision Brake (MCB)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Rear View Camera (with 360-degree camera on select variants)
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• Driver Fatigue Alert
• Hill Hold Control & Hill Descent Control

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is a paramount concern for Indian car buyers, and the Kodiaq shines here.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection	Overall Rating
Euro NCAP (2017)	5-Star	5-Star	5-Star
Bharat NCAP	Not yet tested (awaiting official results)

Note: The Euro NCAP rating reflects the car's performance under rigorous international safety protocols.

Rivals of Skoda Kodiaq

In the premium 7-seater SUV segment, the Skoda Kodiaq faces stiff competition from:

• Toyota Fortuner
• MG Gloster
• Jeep Meridian
• Volkswagen Tiguan (though a 5-seater, it competes in the premium SUV space)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages (Pros)

• Premium Cabin & Features: High-quality materials, comfortable seats, and a long list of modern features make the Kodiaq a joy to be in.
• Smooth & Powerful Engine: The 2.0 TSI engine paired with the DSG gearbox offers excellent performance and refinement, making city and highway driving effortless.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The adaptive chassis control (DCC) on higher variants provides a plush ride, soaking up bumps effectively.
• Advanced Safety: With 9 airbags and a host of electronic aids, the Kodiaq offers top-tier safety.
• Spacious & Practical: Generous space in the first two rows and versatile boot space make it highly practical for families.
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard AWD enhances grip and capability, especially on challenging terrains or slippery roads.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Price Point: Being a CBU (Completely Built Unit) initially, the Kodiaq sits at a premium price, which can be a barrier for some buyers.
• Fuel Efficiency: While powerful, the 2.0 TSI petrol engine's fuel economy might not be segment-leading, especially in city driving conditions.
• Third-Row Space: While it is a 7-seater, the third row is best suited for children or short journeys for adults.
• Diesel Engine Absence: The lack of a diesel engine option might deter buyers looking for better fuel efficiency or higher torque, especially for long-distance travel.
• Maintenance Costs (Perception): Skoda's service and maintenance costs, though improving, can sometimes be perceived as higher than some mass-market rivals.

Conclusion

The new Skoda Kodiaq is a truly compelling package for anyone in India looking for a premium, feature-rich, and safe 7-seater SUV. It delivers on performance, luxury, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for families and enthusiasts alike. While it does come with a premium price tag and lacks a diesel option, its strengths in design, comfort, safety, and driving dynamics largely outweigh these considerations.

If your priority is a sophisticated and powerful family SUV that offers a truly premium experience with strong safety credentials, the Skoda Kodiaq should definitely be on your shortlist. It's more than just a car; it's a statement of style and substance, ready to make every journey memorable.