Skoda has released images and details of its Skoda Kodiaq SUV undergoing testing in a disguised form, ahead of the car’s release in early 2017.
The Kodiaq is an all-new design for a large SUV from Skoda, sitting above the popular Yeti in the brand’s product line-up and aimed at rivals including the Nissan X-Trail, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe and Honda CR-V. The Kodiaq will be the first Skoda to offer a seven-seat configuration, although it comes with five as standard.
Design details and engines
Design-wise the Kodiaq is heavily inspired by the Skoda VisionS concept shown at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Even though the car has so far been disguised while testing, certain styling cues can still be noted including the LED front lights, roof rails and sloping rear end.
Inside, the Kodiaq will offer a standard boot capacity of 720 litres for five-seater models, or 630 litres for seven-seater versions, making this one of the most practical cars in its class.
Skoda has also confirmed that when the Kodiaq launches it will be available with two TDI diesel engines and three TSI petrol units. Diesel options will include a 148bhp unit with a six-speed manual gearbox and 187bhp unit mated with a DSG automatic ‘box. The most powerful petrol option will be a 2.0-litre unit with 177bhp. Front-wheel and four-wheel drive powertrains are both available for the Kodiaq.
The diesel engines will offer the most efficient travel, with an average fuel economy of over 50mpg and CO2 emissions of 130g/km or less. Expect pricing for the Skoda Kodiaq to range between about £22,000 and £30,000.
