New-gen Skoda Kodiaq spotted in India ahead of launch
Unveiled in late 2023, the new generation Skoda Kodiaq has brought an overhauled design inside and out, updated powertrain options with a new plug-in hybrid variant, and additional features. Ahead of its India launch, the flagship SUV from Czechia brand was recently spotted on the public roads. Here is what you should need to know, if you are planning to buy a premium mid-size SUV.
The next-gen Kodiaq features a new design but still carries over some signature styling cues from its predecessor. With Skoda's 'Modern Solid' design language, the SUV looks sharper and larger than the previous model.
Its length has gone up by 61mm to 4,758mm, while the width has decreased by 18mm to 1,864mm. The new model is also shorter by 17mm at 1,659mm. However, its wheelbase remains the same at 2,971 mm. Key highlights include a bolder butterfly grille, angular headlamp and fog lamps, and new rear lights with a light stripe running across the width. In addition, newly designed alloy wheels come in different sizes ranging between 17- and 20-inches.
New Skoda Kodiaq: Interior
The headline change is the new cabin, making a way for the minimalist and modern touches. It gets a never-seen-before dashboard layout for a Skoda, featuring a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch driver display, a heads-up display, wireless charging pad, USB Type-C fast charging ports, and a two-spoke steering wheel.
The new-gen Kodiaq, alongside the all-new Superb, debuts new Smart Dial setup â€" three rotary knobs below infotainment system allows users to access various controls. Additionally, there is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 14-speaker Canton sound system, ambient lighting, powered front seats with cooled and heated functions, a panoramic sunroof, telematics, and connected car tech. Skoda has also given it ADAS, up to nine airbags, ESP, hill hold control, and hill descent assist, among others.
New Skoda Kodiaq: Engine optionsFor the first time, the Kodiaq gets a new PHEV version along with various petrol and diesel engine options across the front-wheel or all-wheel drive setup.
The range starts with a 150PS/250Nm 1.5 TSI petrol engine with mild-hybrid functionality. Then, there is a 2.0-litre TSI motor with 204PS and 320Nm of torque. This petrol unit is paired with an all-wheel-drive setup. Customer can choose from two different versions of diesel engines: firstly, a 2.0-litre front-wheel-drive with 150PS/360Nm, secondly, a 2.0-litre all-wheel-drive with 193PS/400Nm.
Last but not least, the new PHEV powertrain comprises a 1.5-litre TSI engine and a 25.7kWh battery pack paired with an electric motor. The total system output is rated at 204PS with an electric range of about 100km. The India-spec model may come powered by a 2.0-litre petrol and diesel options.
New Skoda Kodiaq: Launch & PriceThe Kodiaq has been a successful offering for Skoda Auto India as its first and second batches were sold out in a short period. The new model is also expected to follow the suite. That being said, the upcoming Kodiaq is likely to command a higher premium over its predecessor. The previous version was priced at Rs 38.50 lakh and 39.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also read
The all-new Bugatti Tourbillon is a plug-in hybrid
New Bentley Continental GT Speed set to debut on 25 June