I see hints of a Range Rover Evoque or Velar in the streamlined and stylish new Skoda Octavia Kodiaq silhouette. Made for adventure, the Kodiaq is kitted out for off-road action, and the room inside is spacious and comfortable – ideal for larger families. Modern technology, styling and premium safety adds a bold new Skoda model into the hotly contested AWD SUV buyer’s market.
A new escapade is always enjoyable, particularly if you have family or friends, a few comforts and some good gear with you. There’s no problem at all in finding space for five large adults with the third row folded flat for carrying plenty of gear inside the Skoda Kodiaq (630 litres). You can also seat seven with the third row of seats in place, but adults in the last row will find it a little bit of a squeeze over long distances. Kids will find the third row space is fine. With all the seats in place, the Kodiaq has 270 litres of luggage space. Modern, easy-to-use roof tracks can attach a wide range of luggage containers on the roof of the Kodiaq if you want more luggage space, and there is always the ability to tow a trailer (a 2 tonne braked trailer) for those long term escapades. Smaller than a Mazda CX-9, the new Kodiaq is similar in size to a new Nissan X-Trail.
On any new quest you care to take the stylish Skoda crossover SUV, you’ll have plenty of power. For those who love the lusty torque of diesel engines, a 140TDI diesel engine is offered to power the Kodiaq. Rated at 140 kW, and with a flat 400 Nm of torque for most of the rev counter, there is loads of power on tap. As a long distance tourer, the efficient TDI will be the preferred choice by many.
There is also the petrol-fed 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 132 kW output and 320 Nm of torque from as low as 1400 rpm. Refined, strong and lively without being super quick, the match is perfect for those not hunting for a sports SUV; and I imagine most buyers will be more than impressed with the engine’s flexibility, performance and efficiency. Skoda claims the petrol Kodiaq will accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in less than nine seconds, while returning better than 8 litres/100 km for your usual composed driving habits.
Both engine variants run with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission that has what’s called an on-demand 4×4 system that can send around 80 per cent of engine torque to any of the four wheels if slippage is detected. It works well, and should suit those who travel unsealed roads regularly with the odd off-road exploration now and then.
As a multi-purpose vehicle, the modern Skoda Kodiaq is hard to beat. Plenty of outdoor pursuits become nicely available to those who drive a Kodiaq, such is the Kodiaq’s competitive pricing. You can buy one of these for less than a Mazda CX-9. The Kodiaq is also the least expensive new European SUV in its class that money can buy. A Hyundai Santa Fe is only slightly cheaper at around $42k, so Skoda has aimed its price skilfully.
Tracking down your destination is easy, with the many advanced features that the Kodiaq provides. Competent satellite navigation and Bluetooth communication feature quick and clear functions. Audio is put through a strong surround sound system. Standard kit includes leather/Alcantara suede seats, an electric tailgate –great for when you have your hands full, full lustrous LED cabin lighting, proximity key entry and dual-zone climate control. This is all very nice stuff for a $43k entry price.
Out-and-about it’s always nice to know that you’re travelling in a safe machine. Safety is another strong point for the new Skoda Kodiaq. Loaded with all the very best features, the Kodiaq is five-star equipped – a safety feature you’ll never want to be without when buying new.
Making travelling enjoyable, relaxed and contemporary, the Skoda Kodiaq is a pleasant crossover SUV buy.
The current Skoda Kodiaq series includes the:
For any more information on the Skoda Kodiaq or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Skoda dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!