Skoda Kodiaq

The Skoda Kodiaq's is a 7-seater SUV based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform that underpins the Volkswagen Taiguan as well. It competes against the likes of the Taiguan, the Jeep Meridian and can be considered when shopping for a 7-seater SUV. 

It was updated in 2022 and this review is based on our first drive of that variant.

Looks

The changes in the new Kodiaq's design aren't massive, but they're worth noticing, and the Kodiaq keeps its subtle and attractive style. The bumpers look different now, the headlights are a bit smaller but have a nice curve, the taillights have a new look with dynamic turn indicators, and there's a beefier grille. All versions come with 18-inch wheels. The 'L&K' has a two-tone version of the Style variant's wheels, while the 'Sportline' comes with a more boldly designed set of 'Askella Anthracite' alloys.

Interiors

The Kodiaq has some changes, pretty much what you'd expect in a mid-life update. The steering looks different now, depending on the variant you choose. If you like an all-black interior, you can go for the 'Sportline' option, which used to be 'Scout'. Everything inside is still top-notch quality, from the trims to the switches and the seats.

It's packed with features, and the update adds a few more:

• Now, the Kodiaq has heated and ventilated front seats.

• The Canton audio system now has 12 speakers for even better sound.

• You can use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wirelessly, and there's a front charger for your phone.

• You can choose from 10 ambient lighting colors.

• Besides the rear camera, there's also a surround-view camera.

More Features:

• 12-way powered front seats with memory.

• 10.25-inch Digital Virtual Cockpit.

• 8-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker Canton audio system.

• 3-zone climate control.

• Panoramic sunroof.

• Split-folding/sliding 2nd row and 50:50 split-folding 3rd row.

• Powered tailgate with hands-free operation.

• Cruise control.

• Leatherette upholstery.

Now, let's talk about what's missing and what could be better:

• The Indian Kodiaq doesn't have a massage function for the front seats and lacks under-thigh support extension.

• It misses out on advanced driver assistance features like blind spot monitoring, lane keeping aid, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

• The 8-inch touchscreen is good, but the international model has a bigger 9.2-inch option.

• Skoda India didn't include the Matrix LED headlights, but the standard LED projectors still perform well at night.

• The last row of seats is a bit cramped, making it more of a 5+2 seater than a proper 7-seater. The MG Gloster does a better job at seating seven in this segment.

Engine & Performance

Changing from TDI to TSI might seem like just swapping one letter, but it makes a significant difference. The Kodiaq now rocks a 2-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed DSG auto box and all-wheel drive. Even though the torque is a bit lower by 20Nm, the Kodiaq petrol boasts a solid 190PS, a noticeable upgrade from the previous diesel version.

Before we get too excited, it's important to note that the petrol version is a bit thirstier, with a fuel efficiency of just under 13 km/l (compared to the diesel's 16.25 km/l). However, if you can overlook this slight decrease in fuel efficiency, you'll find that everything else is a step up.

One major improvement is in refinement. This 2-liter engine has already proven its smooth performance in other Skoda and VW models like the Octavia, Superb, and Tiguan, and it continues to impress in the Kodiaq. While you might hear it a bit when starting from a standstill, the engine quickly shifts up the gears thanks to its ample low-rev power. You'll find yourself cruising at 60-70 km/h in no time, enjoying a remarkably quiet ride.

The throttle response is well-balanced, making daily commutes peaceful and vibration-free. And yes, the Kodiaq is now more enjoyable to drive. The old diesel version was decent but didn't deliver that wow factor. With the TSI power, you get an engine that responds better to being pushed. Revving it up doesn't feel futile or noisy, and there's more performance to tap into as you move up the rev range. This makes the Kodiaq with TSI power a more exciting and special ride.

Ride and Handling

This engine isn't a powerhouse for a big SUV like the Kodiaq, but it brings a lively feel to the driving experience. What's cool is how well it blends into the Kodiaq's sedan-like driving style. The Kodiaq has a knack for hiding its size, making it surprisingly enjoyable on twisty roads. Yes, there's a bit of leaning in turns, but it's minor compared to other boxy SUVs. Unlike those more rugged options, Kodiaq encourages acceleration where others might have you hitting the brakes.

This sets cars like the Skoda Kodiaq apart from chunkier SUVs like Fortuner, Gloster, or Alturas G4. Those go for a more traditional SUV feel, tougher and better for rough roads. On smoother roads, though, Kodiaq's ride is comfy, giving you good control while still handling the occasional pothole.

Skoda added something called Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) in the Kodiaq facelift, a fancy term for electronic damper control. DCC lets you switch between Normal, Comfort, and Sport modes.

Fun fact: We did a blindfold test in the backseat to see if passengers could feel the ride change with DCC.

'Sport' mode lets you feel more of the road, but honestly, we couldn't notice much difference between Normal and Comfort. While it's a cool tech feature, the change isn't dramatic. Still, the adaptive damping helps the Kodiaq handle different road conditions with ease.

Verdict

While the updates have indeed improved the Kodiaq's value, they don't give you new reasons to choose it over what you already had. If you prefer a tougher, more robust SUV with a stronger presence, you might lean towards its ladder-frame counterparts.

It remains the go-to SUV in its price range for those seeking a corporate-friendly vehicle. If you desire a spacious SUV with sharp handling that feels more like a sedan, the Kodiaq is your top pick.

Its refined and elegant design, premium quality, and feature-packed offering still position it as an excellent choice for the specific audience it aims to attract.