Updated Skoda Kodiaq revealed with smarter styling and hotter vRS performance model

Updated Skoda Kodiaq revealed with smarter styling and hotter vRS performance model

The Kodiaq remains Skoda’s most spacious model

Skoda has pulled the covers off an updated version of its large Kodiaq, bringing tweaked styling and more technology to this SUV. 

The Kodiaq arrived in 2016, being the firm’s first seven-seater and helping to kick start its new range of SUVs. To make sure it remains on par with newer rivals – such as the Kia Sorento and Peugeot 5008 – it gets a fresh redesign including a more upright grille, raised bonnet and the option of full Matrix LED headlights. 

There’s also been an increased focus on aerodynamics, with new aero alloy wheels, boot spoiler and redesigned front and rear bumpers helping to ensure that the Kodiaq cuts through the air as efficiently as possible.

Inside, the Kodiaq is now available with new interior inserts and enhanced LED ambient lighting, while optional ergonomic seats are available – bringing increased comfort and also a massaging function. A new vegan ‘Eco’ upholstery is now offered, too, which is made from recycled materials. 

Another key change on the latest Kodiaq comes on the top-spec vRS model. This arrived in 2018 with a bi-turbo TDI diesel engine, but with buying habits changing, this hot model will now utilise a 242bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine instead – the same as that fitted to the latest Volkswagen Golf GTI and Skoda’s own Octavia vRS hot hatch. This new engine delivers 5bhp more than its diesel predecessor, while Skoda says it’s more than 60kg lighter as well. 

More conventional engine options will include a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol, a 187bhp 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel available with outputs of 148bhp and 197bhp.

The updated Skoda Kodiaq is set to arrive in showrooms from July, with prices likely to remain similar to the current model’s £29,610 starting price. 

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