While it might have been the quirky Yeti that started Skoda’s SUV offensive, it was the Kodiaq that was Skoda’s first seven-seater.
Combining handsome looks with impressive spaciousness and affordable pricing, it’s little wonder that this Skoda has won an impressive number of best large SUV awards from the likes of What Car?, Auto Express and Top Gear.
So, if this all sounds up your street, it’s worth considering the Skoda Kodiaq, and here’s what you need to know about it…
What engines are available?
Skoda has a fantastic range of engines to choose from with the Kodiaq, with buyers having the option of front- or all-wheel-drive versions.
The petrol range kicks off with a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine, which comes as standard with front-wheel-drive – though you’re able to choose it with a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox instead. If you fancy something with a bit more punch, choose the 187bhp 2.0-litre unit, which has four-wheel-drive and is mated to the automatic gearbox.
However, diesels remain the most popular models, with these also having plenty of appeal to those looking to tow thanks to the increased torque. All diesel models utilise the well-known VW Group 2.0-litre TDI unit. In its most affordable form, it produces 148bhp, and is available with front- and four-wheel-drive, as well as the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox. Choose the front-wheel-drive and automatic version if you’re looking for the best efficiency – this returns up to 47.9mpg, with CO2 emissions of 126g/km.
The more powerful 197bhp unit is just offered with an automatic DSG gearbox and four-wheel-drive.
At the top of the range is the sporty vRS version, which features a 236bhp 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission that’s able to send its power to all four wheels. It’s the quickest engine in the range, as it can sprint from 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 136mph.
What trim levels are offered?
Buyers certainly have no shortage of trim level choice with the Kodiaq, with eight grades on offer. Equipment highlights and prices are as follows.
SE – from £26,150 (five seat), £27,125 (seven seat)
Standard equipment on the Kodiaq includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control and an eight-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, DAB radio and Bluetooth. It also features keyless start, rear parking sensors and cruise control.
SE Drive – from £28,610
This SE Drive model adds LED interior lighting, 19-inch alloy wheels and lumbar support for the front seats. It also features an upgraded infotainment system with satellite navigation, access to online services and voice control, as well as a reversing camera and front parking sensors.
SE L – from £30,205
This popular trim level adds revised 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, keyless entry and a larger 9.2-inch touchscreen with integrated Wi-Fi. Other features include an electric tailgate, heated front seats, microsuede upholstery, piano black interior inserts and selectable drive modes.
Edition – from £32,315
This grade brings metallic paint, black leather upholstery and additional safety kit – including lane-keep assist and blind spot monitoring.
Scout – from £37,350
This version is the most rugged Kodiaq in the line-up – adding an off-road styling kit, different 19-inch alloy wheels and a dedicated off-road mode.
Sportline – from £37,515
So while the Scout goes down the rugged route, the Sportline takes a sportier path – bringing a sports steering wheel, 20-inch alloy wheels, revised styling, gloss black detailing and Alcantara sports seats.
See available Kodiaq dealsThis is the most luxurious Kodiaq on offer – adding classy 19-inch alloy wheels, a beige leather interior. A panoramic camera also features, along with a Canton sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
vRS – from £44,065
If you’re wanting the sportiest option, though, choose the vRS. Alongside it’s more powerful engine, the vRS features microsuede sports seats, a special styling kit, cool 20-inch alloy wheels and a digital cockpit.
What about personalisation?
While the Kodiaq doesn’t pride itself on the personalisation options, buyers certainly aren’t limited for choice when it comes to colours. Energy Blue is the standard colour, but other interesting shades on offer include Emerald Green, Velvet Red and Magnetic Brown.
Other more conventional options available include a heated steering wheel (£95), three-zone climate control (£305) and an electrically retractable tow bar (£885).
If you’re looking to improve the Kodiaq’s safety further, the driver assistance package is worthy £1,320 option – bringing adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and traffic jam assist.