2025 Skoda Kodiaq: Discover Its Strengths And Weaknesses

Skoda has finally announced the prices of the 2025 Kodiaq, starting from Rs 46.89 lakh (ex-showroom). With the new-gen model, the brand brings a refreshed design inside and out, and continues to offer the convenience of a 7-seat layout. While its well-equipped cabin and standout features work in its favour, there are still a few shortcomings you should consider. Here’s a look at all the pros and cons of the new-generation 2025 Skoda Kodiaq.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq Brief Overview

The Skoda Kodiaq presents a refined design in the premium 3-row SUV space. It is available in two variants, the Sportline and the Selection L&K. The cabin boasts soft-touch surfaces and practical touches, making it a versatile family vehicle. Priced competitively, it offers a 5+2 seating arrangement and an impressive list of top features, but comes with a few compromises. To know more about the Kodiaq, head over to our launch report.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq: Strengths And Drawbacks

PROS

CONS

Carries a clean and premium look. Depending on the variant, the alloy wheels either bring in a sporty flair or a more sophisticated vibe. The Sportline trim leans towards a bold, blacked-out appearance, the L&K Selection adds a touch of chrome and elegance for a more refined presence. Sports a premium cabin featuring soft-touch surfaces and a fuss-free dashboard. The quality levels are impressive. Gets a proper 5+2 layout, which is spacious and comfortable for five adults, while the third row is best suited for kids or pets on short trips. Packed with practical touches like in-door umbrella slots, removable waste bins, and a double-sided boot mat.  Top features include a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, dual wireless phone chargers, a panoramic sunroof, a 13-speaker CANTON sound system, and seat ventilation, heating, and massaging functions for the front seats. Noticeably less body roll compared to most 7-seater SUVs, and the steering feels light for city use while staying reassuringly stable at highway speeds.  The AWD system boosts grip on slippery surfaces, though it’s not built for serious off-roading.  Overall, the cabin stays quiet and composed on long drives, making it a solid companion for road trips.

When it comes to cabin feel, similarly priced luxury models like the BMW X1 or Mercedes-Benz GLA still hold the edge with a more upmarket and polished interior experience. While the 360-degree camera is a handy addition, its resolution leaves room for improvement. The Sportline variant, despite its price, skips some key features like hill start assist, hill descent control, drive modes, ventilated or massage seats, and even the 360-degree camera. Only petrol powertrain on offer.  Skoda has skipped the Dynamic Chassis Control, which was offered with the previous generation Kodiaq. The steering leans more towards comfort than engagement; it is smoother and easier, but lacks the sporty feel it had in the previous-gen model.

Is the Skoda Kodiaq the Right Choice for You?

The Skoda Kodiaq is perfect for buyers seeking a premium, spacious family SUV. It boasts a minimalist design with a solid all-around performance. While it lacks a few high-tech features and powertrain options, it excels in build quality, comfort, and everyday practicality. Notably, the 2025 Kodiaq also offers excellent value as a premium 3-row SUV in its segment.

Powertrain Specifications

Under the hood, the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq boasts a 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, churning out 204 PS and 320 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and sends power to all four wheels via an all-wheel-drive setup. Skoda claims it can deliver a fuel efficiency of up to 14.86 kmpl.

Rivals

The new-gen Skoda Kodiaq goes head-to-head with a mix of rugged and premium SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Meridian, Citroen C5 Aircross, and the recently launched Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line.

With the Kodiaq bringing in a well-rounded package with comfort and practicality, would you go ahead with it or choose a sportier alternative like the Tiguan R-Line? Share your take in the comments below.