New-Gen Skoda Kodiaq Will Lure More Buyers
Highlights include a roomier cabin, more creature comforts and various powertrain options.
Skoda has taken the wraps off its all-new flagship SUV – the Kodiaq. In its latest avatar, the Skoda Kodiaq outshines its predecessor with a roomier cabin, an enhanced list of features and improved efficiency. And courtesy of the various powertrain options, it will appeal to a broader audience depending on the market.
Looks, as you’d agree, are always subjective. With the second-gen Kodiaq, Skoda hasn’t taken any risks in the design department. Instead, it has taken a conservative approach by refining the original design. Everything from the redesigned bumpers, new split headlights, and larger grille to new wheels, squared-off wheel arches, integrated roof rails, an extended rear spoiler and a bolder back end play their part in distancing the new-gen model from the older one. Another end product is the reduced drag coefficient, resulting in improved efficiency.
The all-new Kodiaq measures 61mm longer than its predecessor, making more room for stuff inside the cabin. Some numbers back that claim, such as the 910-litre luggage capacity in the five-seat version (up by 75 litres) and 340 litres of boot space in the seven-seat derivative (70 more than before), which increases to 845 litres with the third-row folded down (an increase of 80 litres). The wheel sizes range from 17 to 20 inches in diameter. Also, the exterior can be had in nine colours, including the new Bronx Gold Metallic.
The interior of the new-gen Skoda Kodiaq complements the sharper exterior design. Leading from the front is the new 13-inch infotainment system (not part of the standard equipment) that dominates the central dashboard area. Residing next to it and behind the two-spoke multifunction steering wheel is a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, also linked to a head-up display. A nine-speaker sound system comes as standard, but that can be upgraded with a 14-speaker Canton setup. Other available features include massaging seats, automatic climate control, an array of USB ports, and a Phone Box with space to charge two mobiles simultaneously. The options list also consists of the new-gen LED Matrix headlights, connected-car tech, four interior upholstery and trim combinations and an illuminated front grille.
Moving on to the powertrains. The Skoda Kodiaq will be available as a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) for the first time, denoted by the ‘iV’ tag. The powerplant comprises a 1.5-litre TSI engine, producing 150hp, and an electric motor. The total system output is 204hp, all going to the front wheels via a 6-speed DSG. The electric motor is backed by a 25.7kWh battery, efficient enough to deliver an all-electric driving range of more than 100km. It can be charged with an 11kW AC charger or a 50kW DC feed.
The list of conventional powertrains includes two petrol- and as many diesel-fed engines, all coupled with a 7-speed DSG. The starting point is the 1.5-litre TSI, which offers 150hp and has the aid of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The same output is also available from one of the 2.0-litre diesel engines. If that’s no good, an up-tuned version with 193hp is also available. Lastly, there’s the 2.0-litre TSI motor that outputs 204hp. Both top petrol and diesel engines come with all-wheel drive as standard.
Skoda has also packed the second-gen Kodiaq with many assistance and safety systems. The list includes Remote Parking from outside the vehicle, Turn Assist, Collision Avoidance Assist, Crossroad Assist, Exit Warning and up to nine airbags.
The new-gen Skoda Kodiaq will go on sale in Europe early next year. And it certainly has a lot going for itself to lure more buyers. Agreed?
Recommend0 recommendationsPublished in News
