Skodas Kodiaq – Complete Overview

Introduction

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Skodas Kodiaq is the brand’s flagship large SUV, appreciated for its blend of space, features, and premium touches. First launched globally in 2016, the Kodiaq has now entered its second generation (2025 model in many markets), bringing significant upgrades. In April-May 2025, Skoda India introduced the 2nd Skodas Kodiaq in India. This move is meant to solidify Skodas Kodiaq presence in the premium SUV segment, taking on rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Meridian, etc.

This article covers the design, features, technical specs, competition, strengths, potential drawbacks, and what it means for Indian SUV buyers.

Design, Dimensions & Platform

Exterior Design

The 2nd Gen Kodiaq carries forward Skoda’s “Modern Solid” design language. Key exterior updates include:

• Split headlamps (matrix LED/crystallinium style) and a re-worked front face with a larger, more integrated grille. There’s a “Welcome Effect” in lighting in certain trims.
  
• Refined bumper designs, with sporty black treatment in Sportline trim and dark chrome accents in Laurin & Klement (L&K or “Selection L&K” in some sources).
  
• Connected tail lamps: an LED strip linking the taillights, giving a wider visual presence. The rear design is softened relative to the outgoing model, for a more premium, less aggressive look.
  
• New alloy wheel designs (18-inch wheels as standard in India) and updated roof rails, sculpted bonnet, etc.
  

Dimensions & Platform

The 2nd Gen Kodiaq is slightly larger than the outgoing model. Some key dimensional points:

Dimension	Value (India 2nd Gen)	Change vs previous generation*
Length	4,758 mm	~+59 mm
Width (without ORVMs)	1,864 mm	similar or slightly larger.
Height	~1,679 mm	Moderate change
Wheelbase	2,791 mm	Almost same as global spec; modest tweak vs older version.
Ground Clearance (laden)	155 mm	Comparable to outgoing model under load.

*Based on India-spec and Skoda’s published comparisons.

The platform used is MQB37, part of Volkswagen Group’s modular platforms. For global markets, there are additional powertrain options (including mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid), but India (for now) has a specific offer of Skodas Kodiaq.

Powertrain & Performance

For India:

• The 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 201 hp (≈150 kW) and 320 Nm torque.
  
• Transmission is a 7-speed DSG automatic (dual-clutch) sending power to all four wheels (4×4/AWD system).
  
• Claimed fuel efficiency (ARAI-certified) is 14.86 km/l.
  

Globally, Skoda offers broader engine options in some markets: milder petrol/diesel versions, mild hybrids, and even a plug-in hybrid (Kodiaq iV) with over 100 km of electric range. But details of those are more relevant outside India.

Interior & Features

The 2nd Gen Kodiaq brings many upgrades inside, aiming for more luxury, comfort, and tech Skodas Kodiaq.

Interior Styling & Themes

• Two trim themes in India: Sportline variant with sport-oriented decor (more black, gloss-black accents) and Selection L&K (Laurin & Klement) variant with more premium touches including Cognac leather upholstery and dark-chrome or elegant detailing Skodas Kodiaq.
  
• Soft surfaces, acoustic enhancements (better sound insulation) in higher trims.

Technology & Comfort

Key features include:

• A large 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system as the central display on Skodas Kodiaq.
  
• 10-inch digital instrument cluster (virtual cockpit) for the driver. Heads-Up Display (HUD) is also provided.
  
• Multi-function “Smart Dials” or rotary control knobs below the infotainment unit, some with embedded screens, to control HVAC, seat ventilation, audio, drive modes etc.
  
• Three-zone automatic climate control.
  
• Panoramic sunroof (sliding, electric), and rear side window sunblinds in L&K trim.
• Front seats are heated, ventilated, and feature massage function, along with electric adjustment.
• 15W wireless phone charger with active cooling.
  
• Ambient lighting, a premium sound system (Canton 725W, 13 speakers + subwoofer) in higher trims.
  

Space & Practicality

• The Kodiaq retains its seven-seat layout in its full size version.
  
• Boot / cargo space: With all three rows up approx 281 litres; folding the third row gives ~786 litres; with both second and third rows folded, almost 1,976 litres available Skodas Kodiaq.
  

These figures indicate strong practicality, especially for families needing flexible space on Skodas Kodiaq.

Safety & Driver Aids

Safety is a headline feature for the new Kodiaq:

• Comes standard with 9 airbags.
  
• Features such as ABS with EBD, hill-start and hill-descent control.
  
• 360-degree camera, front & rear parking sensors, and an automatic park-assist system.
  
• Panoramic sunroof with electric operation, and acoustic package to reduce external noise in the cabin.
• Other safety & convenience features like Multi-Collision Braking (to prevent uncontrolled movement after a crash), fatigue alert systems etc.
  

Pricing & Variants (India)

Skoda India offers the 2nd Gen Kodiaq in two main trims:

Variant	Price (Ex-Showroom India)	Key Distinguishing Features
Sportline	₹ 46,89,000	Sportier styling (gloss blacks etc.), same powertrain, strong feature list though some premium touches reserved for L&K.
Selection L&K	₹ 48,69,000	More luxury-oriented trim: Cognac leather, better finishes, additional comfort features etc.

Deliveries are reported to start in May 2025.

Colour options include several choices: Moon White, Magic Black, Graphite Grey, Velvet Red, Race Blue; and exclusive colours like Bronx Gold (for L&K), Steel Grey for Sportline.

Comparison with Previous Generation

To understand what the second generation brings, here are the key differences versus the outgoing Kodiaq model in India (and globally in analogous markets):

• Slightly increased length, giving more room and improved road presence.
  
• Upgraded styling both outside and inside: more premium design cues, more advanced lighting, better cabin materials.
  
• More features especially in comfort, tech, sound system, seat adjustments, etc.
  
• Better safety: more airbags, more driver aids, additional assistance features.
  
• Updated platform (MQB37), which can bring benefits in ride, handling, noise insulation, and flexibility.
  

How It Matches Up Against Rivals

In India, the premium large SUV / 7-seater segment is competitive. The 2nd Skodas Kodiaq competes with models such as:

• Toyota Fortuner / Fortuner Legender – traditional choice known for durability, off-road ability, strong brand support.
  
• MG Gloster – lots of features, value for money, strong tech.
  
• Hyundai Tucson (though 5-seater), Jeep Meridian, etc.
  

Against these rivals, the Skodas Kodiaq offers:

• More premium cabin features than many, especially in its trim.
  
• Good packaging (room, flexibility), especially cargo space.
  
• AWD system which helps in conditions requiring better traction.
  
• Brand equity (European origin), desirability for buyers who want features over purely ruggedness.
  

However, there are areas where rivals might outperform or appeal differently:

• Off-road capability: the Fortuner has a longer heritage and possibly more rugged mechanicals in harsh terrains Skodas Kodiaq.
  
• Service network and resale value: Toyota has an edge in many parts of India.
  
• Fuel costs and maintenance: large SUVs with turbo petrol AWD will incur higher running costs.
  

Strengths & What Looks Good

From what has been announced and observed, here are some standout strengths of the 2nd Gen Skoda Kodiaq:

1. Feature richness – massage seats, ventilated seats, ambient lighting, strong sound system, large screens etc. make it very compelling in terms of comfort.
   
2. Spaciousness and flexibility – cargo space when seats folded, seven-seat layout, high practicality.
   
3. Premium touches and luxury feel – especially in L&K trim. Materials, acoustic insulation, interior theming seem improved.
   
4. Modern design – split LED lights, connected tail lamps, softer lines, more refined front-end etc. give it a visual boost.
   
5. All-wheel drive option – many rivals may offer 2WD; AWD adds capability.
   

Potential Weaknesses / Considerations

No car is perfect. Here are possible drawbacks or things potential buyers should watch:

• Fuel economy / running cost: While the ARAI figure is ~14.86 km/l, real-world results (especially with AWD, turbo petrol, heavy loads) may be lower. Buyers need to consider fueling and maintenance costs.
  
• Ground clearance: 155 mm when fully laden is okay, but for rough roads / off-roading or steep rural terrain, this might be limiting. Not sure how it compares to Fortuner etc. in terms of off-road visibility.
  
• Price: It is expensive in a segment where people expect durability and low maintenance; high cost of spare parts, servicing might be a concern.
  
• Off-road ruggedness: While AWD helps, Fortuner etc. have more rugged builds, higher ride height, more basic but tough mechanicals. Buyers needing that might prefer those rivals.
  
• Waiting period and resale / service support: Being a premium vehicle, supply, waiting times, and maintenance service quality will matter.
  

Launch & Market Reception in India

• Skoda India officially launched the 2nd Gen Kodiaq on 17 April 2025, with deliveries starting around May 2025 Skodas Kodiaq.
  
• Initial bookings and response have been positive (as per Skoda’s announcements). The Kodiaq is also assembled locally (in India) which helps with pricing and localization.
  

The new Kodiaq is positioned as a luxury large SUV for customers who want premium features, space, comfort and a certain status, rather than pure ruggedness.

What It Means for Indian Buyers

The arrival of 2nd Gen Kodiaq gives Indian SUV buyers a more compelling option if they are looking for:

• A vehicle (Skodas Kodiaq) that acts as both family transporter (7 seats, good space) and premium experience.
  
• Recent tech features: in infotainment, comfort, safety Skodas Kodiaq.
  
• A luxury-SUV feel without going into ultra-premium (imported) SUVs — competitive domestically assembled with luxury touches.
  

It also signals that buyers in India are being offered higher levels of features and comfort even in big SUVs; the bar is rising. Also, competitors will likely respond by improving feature content and comfort in their offerings.

Also Read

KIA SYROS – Complete Overview

Global Perspective & Broader Powertrain Options

Though the Indian spec is limited to the turbo petrol 2.0-TSI + AWD, globally the 2nd Gen Kodiaq offers more varied options:

• Mild Hybrid (mHEV) petrol and diesel options in certain markets.
  
• A plug-in hybrid version (the “iV”) which can deliver over 100 km of electric-only range in some markets.
• More engine outputs, potentially other drivetrain combinations depending on market.
  

These broader options are not confirmed for India yet (as of the launch in May 2025). If introduced, they could appeal to those wanting lower emissions or lower fuel cost operating modes.

Conclusion

The 2nd Gen Skoda Kodiaq is a strong effort by Skoda to raise the bar in the large premium SUV segment in India. It combines luxury, technology, space and practicality in a more refined package than the outgoing model. While it may not match some rivals in terms of rugged off- Skodas Kodiaq road heritage, its strengths lie in comfort, features, and premium feel.

For prospective buyers, a few questions to consider:

• Whether the premium features justify the price difference over rivals.
  
• How much they drive (highway / city / rural roads) will influence the fuel and maintenance cost significantly.
  
• How much service, resale value and support Skoda can provide in their region.
  
• Whether an AWD system is necessary for their use case or if a 2WD equivalent might suffice (if Skoda introduces it in future).
  

Overall, for buyers seeking luxury, comfort and capability in a big SUV, the 2025 / 2nd Generation Skoda Kodiaq looks like a very serious contender.

If you like, I can also do a spec-by-spec comparison of the 2nd Gen Kodiaq vs Fortuner, Gloster etc., to see which one offers better value in different usage patterns Skodas Kodiaq.