Widely praised as the model that made Škoda a true global player, the Kodiaq has been one of the Czech brands most successful models with more than 850,000 sales worldwide.
Škoda unveiled their second generation Kodiaq, in Berlin last October. The new model promises to pick up where the original left off, with a powerful new look, innovative features and even more practicality. Physically, the new Kodiaq is even bigger and more imposing. It has grown by 61mm in length and now stretches to 4,758mm. Boot volume has increased by up to 75 litres over its predecessor. Meanwhile, the Kodiaq’s aerodynamics have also been improved, with a new drag coefficient of just 0.282.
From the outside, the new generation Kodiaq demonstrates its new Modern Solid design language with a protruding grille that can be ordered with 14 light elements forming a striking light strip between the LED headlamps. A revised Škoda logo sits atop the reshaped bonnet while, shiny chrome makes way for Unique Dark Chrome matt surrounds. LED Matrix headlights and rear LED dynamic indicators will feature as standard on the majority of models.
Inside, a new 13” infotainment display takes centre stage and provides the driver with essential information, navigation and infotainment. Škoda Smart Dials feature for the first time in a Škoda. These three, intuitive multifunctional controls are positioned below the infotainment display for ease of access and feature small colour screen displays. Measuring 32mm in diameter, Smart Dials are functional and physical, providing the driver with instant access to essential functions such as climate control without having to delve into multiple menus on a touchscreen.
In addition, the automatic transmission gear selector has been repositioned to the steering column, creating more space in the centre console. All the practicalities of the seven seat configurations have been retained from the outgoing model.
Concerning powertrains; the second-generation Kodiaq showcases a versatile range of modern and highly efficient engines, including petrol, diesel and hybrid options. For the first time, the Kodiaq is available with hybrid technology. The plug-in hybrid powertrain for the Kodiaq iV offers a system output of 150 kW (204 hp) and an all-electric range of more than 100 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. Meanwhile, mild-hybrid technology comes in the entry-level 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 hp). Today, diesel engines account for 96% of Irish Kodiaq sales and this trend is likely to continue. The new Kodiaq is available with two 2.0 TDI diesels, with 110 kW (150 hp) and 142 kW (193 hp), the later mated to a 4×4 all-wheel-drive transmission. Diesel versions of the Kodiaq are HVO (Hydrated Vegetable Oil) ready. Used in combination with diesel fuel or exclusively, HVO fuel has the ability to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90%.
Commenting, John Donegan, Brand Director, Škoda Ireland: “The Kodiaq first went on sale in Ireland in 2017 and became an instant success, finding 11,500 happy homes over a six-year sales period. It received a light cosmetic facelift in 2021 and even outsold the Octavia model the following year. The Kodiaq has always remained in high demand and, even with the new model on the horizon, there are very few unallocated current generation Kodiaqs available for immediate purchase. Therefore, I would advise interested customers to discuss the next generation Kodiaq with their local dealer at their earliest convenience.”
The new Škoda Kodiaq is available to order from 29th January with delivery expected in June at the earliest. Prices start from €53,670 for the 2.0 TDI, 110 kW (150 hp). The Kodiaq is offered exclusively with 7-seats, with the exception of the Kodiaq Plug-In-Hybrid 5-seat arrangement, priced from €57,590. Finance is available courtesy of Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS) with personal contract plan (PCP) rates starting from 4.9% APR.
