Complete Family Car

author: FutureCar Staff    

Skoda is facing the challenge of creating a new generation of its Kodiaq SUV that surpasses its predecessor while maintaining its reputation as a practical and family-friendly carmaker. The new Kodiaq promises to be roomier, more technologically advanced, and more luxurious than before, without compromising Skoda's core values. CAR had an exclusive preview of the new SUV and got a walkaround with Skoda's head of exterior design, Karl Neuhold.

The new Kodiaq retains its familiar look but with some updates to make it trendier and more stylish. It features aerodynamic wheel inserts, a contrast-color D-pillar, and a thin light bar integrated into the grille. The color of the showcased model is called Bronx Bronze, a new shade introduced with the Kodiaq. Neuhold explains that the goal was to make the car more sculptural and emphasize its functionality as a true seven-seater. The design team also opted for a unique rear light design and a lack of chrome trimmings to focus on sustainability.

Skoda has also confirmed the return of the SportLine model, which features bespoke wheels, a more aggressive body kit, and sportier seats. The interior of the new Kodiaq has been carefully designed with a focus on ergonomics and user-friendliness. It features physical switchgear, including new Smart Dials that offer customizable settings for temperature control, seat heating or cooling, and other functions. The central dashboard houses a large 13-inch display running on VW Group's latest infotainment software. Skoda has also introduced different interior trim designs and added various convenient features like a head-up display and massaging seats.

The new Kodiaq is built on the refreshed MQBevo platform, which allows for maximum interior space. Rear legroom is generous, and the rear space includes high-powered USB-C sockets. The five-seat model offers a massive 910-liter boot space, while the seven-seat model provides either 340 liters or 845 liters of luggage space with the third row's seats folded up and down, respectively. The Kodiaq iV plug-in hybrid variant has a luggage capacity of 745 liters.

Skoda has confirmed that the new Kodiaq will be available with a range of powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, and an iV plug-in hybrid. The range starts with a 1.5 TSI EA211 Evo2 engine with mild-hybrid technology. A 2.0-liter TSI engine and a 187bhp diesel engine are also available. The plug-in hybrid variant, Kodiaq iV, features a turbocharged 1.5-liter TSI engine, an electric motor, and a 25.7kWh battery pack, offering 62 miles of electric range.

The new Skoda Kodiaq is expected to go on sale in early 2024, with prices starting around £38,000.

FutureCar Staff