Skoda NZ is starting the year with a bang, introducing two new models. And they are two of the brand’s most important offerings with new generations of the Superb and Kodiaq landing. Actually there is another newcomer as well, that being the facelift Octavia RS. But we are here to talk about the Kodiaq.
The first gen model dotted down here in 2017, was updated in 2021 and Skoda has sold 3600 of them. Barring Superb sales to police, the Kodiaq is the most important model in its line up, accounting for between 30 and 38 per cent of its business each year.
The range kicks off with the TSI 110kW at $54,990 (arriving next month) for the ‘price sensitive’ buyer, though this a five seater only. The 1.4T makes 110kW and 250Nm, uses a seven-speed twin-clutch and is rated at 8.3L/100km (189g/km). Skoda NZ will offer an up-spec 110kW model at some point, while the TDI Selection is $74,990. This adds a 142kW/400Nm 2.0-litre TDI, AWD and despite being 1.7sec quicker to 100km/h (8.0sec) it’s rated at 6.0L/100km while the CO2 figure is 170g/km. Both models have lots of TLA safety features along with a centre air bag, a full length curtain and side bags in the rear as well. It has a five star Euro NCAP rating. Active cruise features stop and go while the TDI model adds extras like smart key operation, electric leather seats, enhanced audio, powered tailgate and more.
It might seem unusual for an all-new family SUV to launch without a hybrid option while also championing diesel. But Skoda NZ head, Alex Brown, isn’t worried. He says Kiwi consumers aren’t anti diesel and that the Euro 6 compliant 2.0-litre TDI is a cleaner power choice for them in CO2 terms than the TSI engine. While there is a plug-in hybrid Kodiaq option available, it’s not one that Skoda NZ is pursuing at present, Brown saying ‘price plays a part in that decision’. There is a mild hybrid petrol option that potentially could join the line up in time.
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New Kodiaq adopts the ‘modern solid’ design, it’s a little longer (4758mm long – about Sorento size), and now with 75L of additional boot space, quoted at 845L in the seven seater and 910L in the five-seater. It’s slightly narrower overall, so a little easier to park.
The TDI is well spec’d and finished inside, stitched paneling and ample soft spots about the cabin imparting a premium feel. There’s a comfy seat with plenty of powered adjustment and great storage in the centre console, although the cup holders could be bigger still. There are twin charge pads and all the spots are well lined.
The big screen has a solid resolution and the new twist and go gear lever is easy to use and out of the way now that it’s positioned on the column. Not sure about the cruise control wand hidden behind the wheel but the other controllers have a good feel to them with a mix of digital and analogue switches.
There’s still good space in the rear, while the third row is easily accessible, and should provide adequate room for the kids. And there are many of those ‘simply clever’ Skoda things too; a cleaner for the central display, the door edge protector, the umbrella in the door, the tunnel console for the rear etc.
That’s the word that best describes Kodiaq, a refined player. The diesel is pretty hushed and gets into its torque fairly quickly. The seven-speed twin-clutch is slick too. The steering is light but consistent while the suspension is a good soak, and quiet about it too.
There is also the RS version to come which will use a 195kW/400Nm 2.0-litre TSI engine, which should prove popular here. Brown admitted the lower trim models don’t sell as well; “Kiwis love the sporty models, bigger and better.” It should be here mid-year.
