Skoda Kodiaq (2024): Test, Price, Configuration

The new Skoda Kodiaq, which is the immediate successor to the Superb to which it is technically related, has a serious role to play. Although its predecessor opened a new part of the brand, it was immediately popular, selling more than 860,000 copies in total! His recipe for family appeal? Smart style, good price and enough interior space (up to 7 seats!).

Again, thin, low

Of course, this second generation is making the most of its stay. The best: it adds a lot, extending by 6.1 cm compared to its predecessor, for a total length of 4.76 m! For others, the SUV has not grown much, on the contrary: it has lost 1.8 cm in width (1.86 m) and 1.7 cm in height (1.66 m). The 2.79 meter wheelbase is the same, this new Kodiaq is still based on the same MQB platform. Note, however, that this is now an Evo version that is also available on the Volkswagen Passat, as well as on more compact models such as the Skoda Octavia.

Under the trick

However, do not believe that Skoda was satisfied with the good evolution of its Kodiaq. The design has been completely revised and the SUV looks bigger than before. Skoda, however, tells us that it has refined the line to reduce consumption. The split headlights make a return, but are now better suited for better Matrix LED components. For the frame, it is possible to connect optical units with an LED strip (optional) that crosses the grille. In profile, we see different C-pillars, which gives a more or less successful effect depending on the chosen color … At the back, the lights are connected together, but the cord is on the tailgate and under the letter ” Skoda “. not highlighted.

Smart Hitters

On board, we find an environment that looks very close to that of the new Skoda Superb! So the dashboard is largely the same, with a 10-inch “Virtual Cockpit”, a 10- to 13-inch touchscreen and new “Smart Dials”. These “smart dials” come in the form of multifunction dials that allow you to change modes with simple presses, which are reminiscent of the rotary buttons used by the Jaguar-Land Rover group for several years. The side buttons, in turn, are used to adjust the temperature as well as the heating and ventilation of the seats. As for the middle button, it allows you to program four functions out of a total of six. Does this seem difficult to you? We assure you, in practice, it is more ergonomic than using a touch screen, but you still have to take your eyes off the road to see what function is activated by the Smart Dial…

7 real locations!

On board, the accommodation is royal! Five adults can fit comfortably on board, even if they are built strong! The third row of seats (optional) has become more useful than before: if these two seats placed in the trunk are intended for children, it is possible to fasten an adult (not very tall) there if necessary. There’s no shortage of storage space either: there’s still a dual-glove box, while the gearbox controls have moved to the steering column. This step frees up space in the center console for all your little things…

Even with the raised third row, the trunk remains respectable, with a volume of 340 liters (+70 liters compared to the first generation). By folding these two seats, the trunk increases to 845 liters, or even 910 liters if you have chosen the 5-seat version. When all seats are folded, the Kodiaq offers 2,035 liters (2,105 liters for the five-seat version). Good to know: the Kodiaq iV plug-in hybrid is only available in a 5-seat version, with a trunk of 745 to 1,945 liters.

Plug-in hybrid, petrol or diesel

The range of Skoda Kodiaq 2024 engines is wide! In addition to the traditional petrol and diesel engines, the SUV is now equipped for the first time with a plug-in hybrid unit. The latter is well known because it resembles those of the Superb, VW Passat and Tiguan, to name just a few. The hybrid group includes a 110 kW (150 hp) 1.5 TSI petrol engine with an 85 kW (116 hp) electric motor connected to a 6-speed DSG gearbox. In total, you have 150 kW (204 hp) at your disposal! As for the 25.7 kWh battery (19.7 kWh usable), it guarantees an electric range of “more than 100 km”, even if we are still waiting for official approval figures.

Prefer something more casual under the hood of your second-generation Kodiaq? It is possible! Naturally, Skoda offers the 1.5 eTSI of 110 kW (150 hp) which, thanks to its micro-hybrid design, has become more economical than before. This engine was the most popular choice in the previous generation and is expected to take the lion’s share with this new model as well. Above, we find the TSI 2.0 with 150 kW (204 hp) which benefits from all-wheel drive.

In diesel, two 2.0 TDIs are available, with 110 kW (150 hp) or 142 kW (193 hp). Here again, the more powerful variant benefits from all-wheel drive. In addition, note that all engines are connected as standard to a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. And the Kodiaq RS? It will return in 2025, with a 2.0 TSI petrol engine of 195 kW (265 hp), as in the Superb.

Superior comfort

On the road, Kodiaq is more comfortable than Superb! The extra suspension travel provides more smoothness, while the new seats (AGR-approved and benefiting from an optional massage function) offer better seats and more adjustments. In addition, thanks to its excellent soundproofing, the Skoda SUV swallows kilometers easily and surprisingly protects its occupants.

Indeed, from a power point of view, the Kodiaq is probably not the strongest tool, although we have yet to test the RS version promised for next year. If it is not the most intense, it should not be ashamed of its results: the movement of its body is controlled, while it easily puts itself on the curves. In addition, we noted a significant difference between the comfort and sport types of DCC (optional) suspension. However, there is no point in continuing the joke: the Kodiaq is not cut out for play or for high-speed turns! In addition, and considering the size, its basic mechanics are not sound…

Prix du Skoda Kodiaq 2024

Not all variants of the Skoda Kodiaq 2024 are still on sale: currently the entry ticket is the Family version with the 1.5 eTSI and its price is €45,695. The Business Edition is intended more for fleets and costs 1,285 euros more (46,980 euros). For that extra fee, you get an enlarged infotainment screen, adaptive cruise control, and a few other options. If prices for the Kodiaq iV plug-in hybrid are still unknown, Skoda assures us that all versions will go on sale by summer 2024.

Our decision

Sure, Skoda Kodiaq 2024 prices have gone up a bit, but the Czech SUV still offers unbeatable value for money. More spacious, more comfortable, more intelligent and better equipped than its predecessor, this new Kodiaq also has a new advantage, namely a plug-in hybrid engine. Sure, it’s more of a smart choice than a passionate one, but it’s still a very good one…