Sit inside the all new Skoda Kodiaq | 360° Video | CarsIreland.ie

Published on 19 April, 2017

Skoda finally launched their much anticipated Kodiaq SUV this week.

Overview

Overview
Skoda finally launched their much anticipated Kodiaq SUV this week, and by all accounts, it looks like it’s been worth the wait. Boasting best-in-class rear leg and head room, and the largest boot in the segment at a massive 720 litres, Skoda continues their winning formula of offering more car, for less money than the competition. Prices start at €28,795 for the five seat model, but the majority of sales will go towards the seven seat version which costs just €1,000 more.

Space and Practicality 
The extra row of seats is surprisingly spacious and those used to squeezing kids into a miniscule back row will be pleasantly surprised by the Kodiaq which offers almost double the legroom of its closest competitor. This adult reviewer had almost six inches of room to spare back there, and a nice large window made it feel like a proper seat in the car and not just an afterthought the way others sometimes can. The middle row is equally spacious and the seats are individually adjustable to cater for passengers of various heights. There’s also plenty those simply clever Skoda touches around the place including umbrellas in the door frames and a clever grab function in the cupholders that allow you to open a bottle with just one hand.

Performance and Running Costs 
The main engine on offer will be a 2.0 150hp TDI which will come with either a 4X4 manual, or 2WD DSG transmission. A higher powered 190hp version offers both DSG and all-wheel drive. The range also includes two petrols – an entry level 1.4 TSI 125hp model and a higher powered 150hp DSG version. Although the diesel uptake is expected to be much higher, Skoda stress that petrol will be a suitable option for many drivers as the market begins to shift ever so slightly away from diesel once again. Despite its hummer-like road presence, it’s actually pretty decent to drive. We took the 2.0TDI manual for a spin and were impressed with the easy handling and smooth gearshift. There was plenty of power available too despite its gargantuan size. Parking sensors and a reversing camera helped make it manageable in tighter spots.

Equipment and Safety 
There is plenty more kit on offer as standard too and standard features include 17 inch alloy wheels, Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Climatronic Air Conditioning and Smartlink phone integration. Mid spec ambition models (from €30,995) add 18 inch wheels, Keyless Engine Start, roof rails and parking sensors. The top of the range Style trim gets 19 inch Triglav Alloys, full LED headlights, Alcantara upholstery, a rear-view camera, an eight inch Columbus Satellite Navigation system and starts at €38,495. The Kodiaq is yet to face the NCAP safety test but is expected to sail through with an impressive list of driver assisting features as standard including emergency autonomous breaking and CareConnect - a system which will automatically call the emergency services in the event of an accident.

Reliability and Residuals
Based on the well-tested MQB platform, the Skoda Kodiaq shares many of its underpinnings with its Audi and Volkswagen group siblings. Vast improvements in brand image over the last few years should ensure residual values remain strong come trade in time. It will also come with Skoda's standard three-year warranty. Many people on the look out for a seven seater may have been told to hang on for this one, and it certainly looks like it's been worth the weight.

Stay tuned for the full video test drive coming soon to CarsIreland.ie

Facts & Figures

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives