The Skoda Kodiaq shines even after covering long distances.
Skoda's Kodiaq made a splash in 2017 with its mid-sized SUV. This year, the original model returns at a more affordable price point. A used car test helps us understand what it has to offer and where it shines.
As the second-generation Skoda Kodiaq revs up, we take the time to examine the characteristics of the first-generation model during a TÜV road test.
Quality
Kodiaq owners need not worry about their cars during the TÜV test. Its defect rate falls below average for the other vehicles tested, even with higher mileage. The oil loss is occasionally an issue, but the actual problem lies in the braking system due to excessive wear on the brake discs. The younger models experience challenges with the suspension, while older models fare better.
Size and Interior
Measuring 4.70 meters long, the Kodiaq surpasses its Volkswagen Tiguan cousin in length by 20 centimeters. With the Allspace variant of the Tiguan, the length of the Czech model is equal. The spacious mid-size SUV provides adequate seating room. However, the seventh seat in a seven-seater version has limited range of motion for the passengers.
The Kodiaq's rear bench can be adjusted longitudinally by up to 18 centimeters for more knee space or luggage room. In a five-seat configuration, the cargo area holds between 720 and up to 2,065 liters. With the seven-seat configuration, the space reduces to 270 liters when all seats are upholstered.
The interior is characteristic of Skoda, featuring a plain, functional design with helpful extras like an ice scraper in the fuel cap and an umbrella in the door handle. The Kodiaq received a facelift in mid-2021, identified by a taller hood and a more upright grille, in addition to standard LED headlights.
Powertrains and Performance
At launch, the Kodiaq offered three turbocharged gasoline engines and two diesels. The gasoline engines produced 92 kW/125 hp or 110 kW/150 hp (1.4 TSI) and 132 kW/180 hp (2.0 TSI). Since 2019, a 140 kW/190 hp (2.0 TSI) engine was available. In mid-2018, the 1.5-liter TSI with 150 hp replaced the 1.4er version. In 2021, the RS variant was added with 180 kW/245 hp. The gasoline engine's fuel consumption ranges from 6 to 8.3 liters.
The diesels came with a 150-hp and 190-hp (since 2019: 147 kW/200 hp) version. The 2.0-liter diesel engine packs 500 Nm of torque. All engines are paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission featuring six or seven gears. Except for the base gasoline engine, all engines can be ordered with or have all-wheel drive as standard.
Equipment and Safety
The Kodiaq boasts a variety of features, including a 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and a 360-degree camera. The safety package includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking assistance. The Kodiaq received a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test.
The Kodiaq was available in SKODA's familiar Active, Ambition, Style, and L&K equipment lines, as well as Scout and Sportsline versions. The base version provided decent equipment options. Those who wanted to upgrade could invest in leather, a panoramic glass roof, adaptive distance and parking assistance, or the adaptive suspension.
Conclusion
The Skoda Kodiaq is a spacious, comfortable car with a lot to offer. Individuals seeking a seven-seater SUV will be well-served with this model. On mobile.de, approximately 5,300 used Skoda Kodiaqs are currently for sale, with starting prices around €15,000 for older models with high mileage.
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Volkswagen, having a robust presence in the automotive industry, often considers the performance of Skoda models like the Kodiaq during their tests.
During the MOT inspection, Skoda Kodiaq diesel models often face issues related to excessive wear on brake discs.
When considering a used car, upper middle class individuals may find value in test driving both Volkswagen's Tiguan and Skoda's Kodiaq, as they are comparable in size and affordability.
For car enthusiasts in the market for a used car, the Kodiaq, with its diverse powertrain options, including diesel engines, could satisfy their preferences.
