Skoda, a Czechoslovakian brand has become a darling to the Volkswagen Group (VAG) since 1991 and has produced many good quality cars. The latest model to be revealed now is a rather handsome SUV called the Kodiaq.
Named after a large brown Alaskan bear, Skoda’s new seven-seater SUV will take on the likes of Kia Sorento and Toyota Fortuner. Based on Volkswagen’s largest MQB platform, it is 4,700mm long, 1,882mm wide and 1,676mm tall. Skoda cars are known for its large interior space and the Kodiaq continues this trend. For starters, the wheelbase measures at 2,791mm, about 91mm longer than its Korean rivals!
Boot space is quite possibly the best in class with 720 litres when the third row seats are stowed. But when both second and third row seats are folded, cargo volume expands to a whopping 2,065 litres! Wheel sizes start from 17-inch, but the range topper gets 18-inch wheels.
Powertrain options include three petrol engines (a VW-derived 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre turbos) and two oil burners with two states of tunes. A choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch transmissions can be specced, as well as 2WD or all-wheel drive. A hotter bi-turbo diesel is also in the pipeline.
The list of driver assistance system in the Kodiaq is pretty lengthy, beginning with Area View, Manoeuvre Assist and Tow Assist. City Emergency Brake, which is Skoda’s version of autonomous braking system, is included as standard. Buyers can opt for the Emergency Assist function which helps bring the car to a stop in the event of, well, an emergency.
The Kodiaq is packed with so much tech, it’ll require a separate article to go into detail of each. Fun fact – Skodas are generally cheaper than Volkswagens, and we would love for the Kodiaq (one of the most value for money SUVs in Europe today) to be introduced in Malaysia.
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