Czech auto major Škoda have finally revealed their all-new large SUV, the Kodiaq.
Built on the new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform shared by the Volkswagen Group, like the Tiguan, the Kodiaq is a transverse-engined SUV that takes the brand into the heights of the present. It measures 4,697 mm long, 1,882 mm wide, 1,676 mm tall and runs a 2,791-mm wheelbase. The weight ranges from 1,452 kg to 1,686 kg. It will be available as a five- or a seven-seater vehicle.
The exterior is marked by sharp, clean lines that look very Škoda, but also has elements reminiscent of other VW Group offerings. The LED headlamps and tail-lamps look sharp. The Kodiaq will run 17-inch wheels with 215/65 R17 rubber across the range. Suspension duties are handled by a MacPherson Strut set-up front with a four-link axle at the rear. The steering system is a electro-mechanical power-assisted unit. A new Driving Mode Select appears allowing a choice of Normal, Eco, Sport and Individual, allowing the driver to select an engine/transmission/steering set-up that better suits the mood or conditions.
The Kodiaq benefits from access to an almost unlimited parts and tech bin for the Group and, as such, sports every modern convenience and safety tech there is to offer. From a choice of potent petrol and diesel engines with dual-clutch boxes to autonomous emergency braking and dynamic chassis control. Notable features include Crew Protect Assist, which prepares the occupants for an impending collision, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection, autonomously braking at up to 35 km/h to avoid a collision when needed, plus Škoda Connect that not only makes conectivity easiier, but also include the Emergency Call feature, bringing help in the event of an accident by calling an emergency number and sharing the car’s location. The Kodiaq, in 4×4 TDI DSG guise, can also be set up to tow up to 2.5 tonnes and also packs a Trailer Assist system. There are several additions that make it every bit a modern, functional SUV.
The seven-seater SUV affords good passenger room while not compromising on storage space. Of course, with seven seats up, there is 270 litres: only enough room for a pair of suitcases and such. Fold down the third row and the volume goes up to 720 litres. Fold down the second row and you have 2,065 litres – that’s than what the Q7 offers. Specify the folding front passenger seat and you have the ability to store a 2.8-metre long item inside too.
Driveline choices range from a 1.4-litre TSI turbo-petrol with 125 PS and 200 Nm with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive to a 2.0-litre TDI turbo-diesel with 190 PS and 400 Nm with seven-speed twin-clutch automatic and four-wheel drive. The new seven-speed DSG makes its début in the Kodiaq. It can handle a torque output of up to 600 Nm. There are nine driveline choices in total as detailed below:
Petrol:
1.4 TSI: 1,395 cc, in-line four, turbo-petrol, 125 PS, 200 Nm
>> Six-speed manual, FWD
1.4 TSI: 1,395 cc, in-line four, turbo-petrol with active cylinder technology, 150 PS, 250 Nm
>> Six-speed manual, 4×4
>> Six-speed, twin-clutch automatic, FWD
>> Six-speed, twin-clutch automatic, 4×4
2.0 TSI (DI+IDI): 1,984 cc, in-line four, turbo-petrol, 180 PS, 320 Nm
>> Seven-speed, twin-clutch automatic, 4×4
Diesel:
2.0 TDI: 1,968 cc, in-line four, turbo-diesel, 150 PS, 340 Nm
>> Seven-speed, twin-clutch automatic, FWD
>> Six-speed manual, 4×4
>> Seven-speed, twin-clutch automatic, 4×4
2.0 TDI: 1,968 cc, in-line four, turbo-diesel, 190 PS, 400 Nm
>> Seven-speed, twin-clutch automatic, 4×4
The Kodiaq is expected to arrive in India following its global launch. It will be priced in the realm of the Hyundai Santa Fe and, globally, will also challenge the likes of the Land Rover Discovery Sport. There are several five- and seven-seater versatile SUVs that will feel the heat once the Kodiaq arrives. Until then, watch this space.
Story: Jim Gorde.
