India-spec Skoda Kodiaq – What to expect

Skoda India recently announced that it will bring in three new models in the country for this year – the Rapid Monte Carlo edition, Octavia vRS and the Kodiaq. Of the three, it's the Kodiaq which is bound to get plenty of attention from the masses. With up to 7 seats and a fairly large boot, the Kodiaq is Skoda’s first full-size SUV. However, there is a lot more to it. Here’s what you can expect from this upcoming luxury model. 

Measuring 4,697mm in length, 1,882mm in width and 1,676mm in height, the Kodiaq will easily dwarf mid-size hatchbacks and C-segment sedans. Having said that, it’s still not as large or as high riding as the Toyota Fortuner or the Ford Endeavour. The Skoda’s impressive 2,791mm wheelbase though, will account for plenty of cabin space. With the second row of seats up, the boot space stands at 630-litres but with the seats down, it can be increased to as much as 2,005-litres which is mighty impressive.

In terms of design, the Kodiaq looks typically Skoda, thanks to its clean and precise lines and surfacing. This is particularly evident in the highly recessed shoulder line. The wide, three-dimensional grille is sleek and the narrow, raked headlights, which flow into the grille, give the Kodiaq some credible road presence. The long wheelbase and short overhangs point to the large interior and the wheel arches are slightly angular - a key element of Skoda’s SUV design language. LEDs are used as standard in the C-shaped rear lights which is typical of Skoda. 

Globally, the Kodiaq comes with five engine options – two TDI and three TSI engines. Both fuel options can be had with a 6-speed manual or DSG automatic units with six or seven speeds. Skoda India, however, will initially roll out this car with the popular 2-litre TDI unit with around 150bhp of power and all-wheel drive configuration. The India-spec car will also get a DSG automatic gearbox and driving modes. Speaking of features, the top-spec Kodiaq will come loaded with leather seats, ambient lighting, multiple cameras for a 180 degree view and Skoda’s 9.2-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. 

Skoda India has had a good run with its high-end vehicles, what with the Superb and the Octavia doing well in their respective segments. The Kodiaq, then, will be an important addition to the line-up when it hits the showrooms by the end of this year.