Skoda’s practical Kodiaq returns with enhanced technology and increased size!

Photos: Clifford Chow & Skoda
Text: Augustine Lai

SINGAPORE

Skoda recently premiered one of their best-selling models – the all-new Skoda Kodiaq. Their people-carrying SUV not only differentiates itself from its predecessor, in terms of appearance, but also in passenger space and technological features.

The second-generation Kodiaq maintains a similar silhouette to its predecessor… I mean, why ruin a good formula? But styling has gone up a few notches. The front carries a redesigned split full LED Matrix headlight cluster and a dark chrome-finished grille, bestowing the Kodiaq with  commanding road presence.. Length has increased by 61mm, which leads to the promise of more interior space for passengers.

Skoda asserts that the updated exterior design enhances aerodynamics and efficiency, and even given how much frontal footprint there still is, it boasts a slippery 0.282Cd. From the side, the roofline tapers downward, terminating at a brushed silver D-pillar. The tailgate is split into two by C-shaped tail lamps, which form into a light bar, which border the “Skoda” lettering. Overall, the design is more robust, and refined.

A new free-standing 12.9-inch infotainment screen greets you on the inside, where it features a new menu structure, offering three basic menu icons: “Home”, “Car” and “App”. Moreover, it comes equipped with dual wireless charging points, plus an in-built integrated cooling function to prevent your mobile from overheating (which comes useful especially for our hot climate). The Simply Clever part of Skoda’s branding shows itself in the form of an infotainment screen cleaner (stored in the centre console) to help with the removal of fingerprints and smudges. Like in the previous car, the two front doors are also fitted with umbrella compartments.

Škoda Smart Dials are a new addition to the vehicle. These provide quick access to many of the car’s crucial comfort functions. The two outer dials allow you to toggle the climate control, whereas the middle dial enables you to access four useful functions, such as driving modes, map zoom and speaker volume. Also new in the Kodiaq is the repositioning of the gear selector, which is now located on the right gear stick similar to those on the Volkswagen ID.4, leaving the centre console free for more storage space.

With all seats deployed, cargo room is already at a decent 340 litres. Skoda cars are known for their generous interior space, therefore the Kodiaq boasts 2,035 litres with the last and middle row folded. Safety is also high on the Kodiaq’s design brief. It comes loaded with a variety of driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Driver Alert (Fatigue and Drowsiness Monitor), and Front Assist with automatic braking for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

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The new SUV is powered by the group’s familiar 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged TSI mild-hybrid powertrain, delivering 150hp and 250 Nm of torque (which is the same power rating as the Category B Volkswagen Golf 1.5 eTSI), transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG transmission.

The launch price for the new Skoda Kodiaq is $222,900, including COE. Early buyers can enjoy exclusive accessory upgrades worth $3,000, an additional trade-up bonus of $3,000, and a welcome gift box.

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