Skoda reveals upgraded Kodiaq

author: FutureCar Staff    

The all-new generation of the Skoda Kodiaq has arrived, much to the delight of fans of the Czech company's largest SUV. Since 2016, Skoda has sold nearly 842,000 Kodiaq vehicles worldwide, making it a popular choice in the SUV market.

One of the main highlights of the new Kodiaq is the addition of several firsts for the line. Options now include LED Matrix headlights and a head-up display (HUD) for the driver. Additionally, one of the petrol engines available comes with 48-volt mild-hybrid (48V MHEV) fuel-saving technology. However, the most exciting news is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version called the Kodiaq iV, following Skoda's trend of offering PHEVs in recent years.

The Kodiaq iV PHEV utilizes the 150hp 1.5 TSI turbo petrol engine found in other models, but it is paired with an electric motor and a 25.7kWh battery pack. The combined output of this drivetrain is 204hp, making it one of the most powerful options in the Kodiaq family. The Kodiaq iV is capable of traveling over 62 miles on electric power alone and can be charged at 50kW DC, allowing for a quick recharge time.

Unlike most PHEVs, the Kodiaq iV can be charged using a DC rapid connection, in addition to the standard AC charging. This means the battery pack can be fully replenished in around half an hour when using a public charger. The Kodiaq iV also features an 11kW onboard charger for convenient home charging.

In terms of other drivetrain choices, there is a 2.0 TSI petrol engine with 204hp for those seeking more power. Skoda has not abandoned diesel options yet, offering both a 150hp and a 193hp variant of the 2.0 TDI engine. The 150hp models are front-wheel drive, while the higher-output TSI and TDI models come with four-wheel drive as standard. All new Kodiaq models are equipped with a DSG twin-clutch automatic transmission.

Performance and economy figures have not been confirmed yet, but they are expected to be similar to the previous Kodiaq models. The Kodiaq iV PHEV is expected to have CO2 emissions well below 50g/km, thanks to its large battery pack.

In terms of design, the new Kodiaq features a gentle evolution of its predecessor's styling. The car has been slightly lengthened to increase interior space, resulting in impressive boot space numbers. The seven-seat version offers 340 litres of boot space with all seats in use, which can be expanded to 2,035 litres with just the front two seats in place. The PHEV version does lose 100 litres of boot space due to the hybrid running gear.

Visually, the Kodiaq Mk2 features an illuminated grille option, similar to the all-electric Enyaq. The car also has split headlamp units and C-shaped clusters at the back. Alloy wheels are available in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, and a new color called Bronx Gold is offered.

The interior of the new Kodiaq showcases Skoda's new higher-tech interface. Notably, the car features three 'Smart Dials' beneath the central 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, allowing for easy access to various functions without relying solely on the touchscreen. The car also includes a ten-inch Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster, a head-up display, and sustainable and recycled materials in the cabin finishing. The shift lever is now mounted on the steering column, and a wireless smartphone charging pad is capable of charging two devices simultaneously.

FutureCar Staff