Launched in 2016, the Skoda Kodiaq , the biggest SUV of the Czech brand, has just received its half-life update and presents itself with a retouched image, with new equipment and even new engines.
The Kodiaq was the "spearhead" of the Czech manufacturer's SUV offensive, paving the way in Europe for the arrival of the Karoq and Kamiq. Now, more than 600 thousand copies later, it receives its first facelift.
As an update to the existing model, it's important to say that the dimensions of the Kodiaq haven't changed — it continues to measure 4700 mm in length — as the seven-seater maintains.
Can you “catch” the differences?
If the dimensions did not change, the stylistic features also remained, in general, faithful to those of the predecessor model. There are, however, new bumpers and optics.These are where we find the biggest differences, like narrower optics at the front that can still feature sequential turn lights, complemented by a more vertical grille, bringing it closer to what we saw on Enyaq, the first production electric SUV from brand.
At the back are also the rear optics that stand out the most and the new designs of the wheels stand out, which can vary between 17” and 20”, and the more pronounced rear spoiler.
Interior has changed little…
Inside the renovated Kodiaq cabin, the changes are barely noticeable. Only the new finishes, the new ambient light, the seams in contrasting color and the new digital instrument panel with 10.25” and four different configurations stand out.
In the center, a touchscreen that can have 9.2” (8” as standard) and serves for the infotainment system that has remote software and map updates. This system is compatible with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink.
The new Skoda Kodiaq also has connected services, allowing, for example, integration with Google's personal calendar.
There is also an induction charging compartment for the smartphone, although it is part of the list of options. On the other hand, the charging sockets scattered throughout the cabin are now all USB-C type.
Diesel and gasoline engine range
The new Kodiaq saw its engine range renewed with the Volkswagen Group's EVO blocks, but kept its focus on Diesel engines in addition to gasoline. The inevitable electrification that has already reached the “cousin” SEAT Tarraco is, for now, postponed.
There are two diesel engines and three gasoline engines, with power varying between 150 hp and 245 hp in the RS version. Depending on the chosen engine, a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic is available, as well as front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions.
| Type | Motor | power | Box | Traction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel | 2.0 TDI | 150 CV | DSG 7 speed | Front / 4×4 |
| Diesel | 2.0 TDI | 200 CV | DSG 7 speed | 4×4 |
| Gasoline | 1.5 TSI | 150 CV | Manual 6 speed / DSG 7 speed | Forward |
| Gasoline | 2.0 TSI | 190 CV | DSG 7 speed | 4×4 |
| Gasoline | 2.0 TSI | 245 CV | DSG 7 speed | 4×4 |
Skoda Kodiaq RS Abandons Diesel
The version of the Skoda Kodiaq with the sportier DNA is again the RS, which in this facelift saw the 2.0 liter twin-turbo diesel engine with 240 hp — which we tested — fall to the ground in detriment of the 2.0 TSI EVO petrol engine from the Volkswagen Group .
This block, with 245 hp of power, is the same that we found, for example, in the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Besides being more powerful than its predecessor (more 5 hp), more interesting is being around 60 kg lighter, which promises to have a very positive impact on the dynamics of this spicy version of the Skoda Kodiaq.
This engine can only be combined with the new seven-speed automatic DSG gearbox (5.2 kg lighter) and with the Czech brand's four-wheel drive system.
Accompanying all this power is an image that is also sportier and that has the new 20” wheels with a more aerodynamic format, the rear air diffuser, the double chrome exhaust and the exclusive front bumper as the main attributes.
When does it arrive and how much will it cost?
The renovated Skoda Kodiaq will make its commercial debut in Europe in July this year, but prices for the Portuguese market are not yet known.