Skoda Kodiaq SUV 2018 5 seat review | Mat Watson Reviews

TL;DR

The Skoda Kodiaq is a practical, value-for-money SUV.

Transcript

this is the scoda Kodiak and it could well be the most significant car in the Czech firm's history now you all know that scoda makes good cars but they still not seen as truly desirable however this could be the car to change all that and to find out I'm going to see if the scoda Kodiak which I'm actually going to call the skodak for short has the ... Read More

Key Insights

• The Skoda Kodiaq is positioned as a significant model for the Czech brand, potentially changing its desirability perception.
• Priced up to £35,000, the Kodiaq competes with premium SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Land Rover Discovery Sport.
• The Kodiaq offers a spacious interior, with options for five or seven seats, and shares parts with the Volkswagen Tiguan.
• In terms of comfort and noise insulation, the Kodiaq falls short of premium standards but represents a new high for Skoda.
• The vehicle's handling is competent, offering a stable ride with good grip, comparable to many premium SUVs.
• The interior quality is high, with soft-touch materials, although some parts feel less premium.
• The Kodiaq offers a range of engines, with the 1.4L turbo petrol delivering decent performance but lower fuel economy than claimed.
• Standard features include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and various family-friendly elements like picnic tables and umbrellas.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes the Skoda Kodiaq a significant model for the brand?

The Skoda Kodiaq is significant for the brand as it represents the Czech automaker's first attempt at a mid-size SUV, aiming to change its image from producing good but less desirable cars to competing with more premium brands. It offers a combination of practicality, comfort, and value for money, potentially altering consumer perceptions.

Q: How does the Skoda Kodiaq compare to its competitors like the Volkswagen Tiguan?

The Skoda Kodiaq competes with the Volkswagen Tiguan by offering similar features and shared parts but at a more competitive price point. It provides a spacious interior, with options for five or seven seats, and includes many standard features. However, it may lack some of the premium feel and off-road capabilities of its rivals.

Q: What are the comfort and noise levels like in the Skoda Kodiaq?

The comfort and noise levels in the Skoda Kodiaq are adequate but do not match those of premium SUVs. Noise insulation is less effective, with higher decibel readings compared to competitors like the Audi Q5. Comfort is improved with adaptive dampers, but it still falls short of premium standards, marking a new high for Skoda.

Q: How does the Skoda Kodiaq handle on the road?

The Skoda Kodiaq handles well on the road, providing a stable and enjoyable driving experience. It maintains a flat stance through corners, offering good grip and a feeling of security. While not particularly sporty, it offers a competent ride comparable to many premium SUVs, although it is not designed for off-road use.

Q: What is the interior quality like in the Skoda Kodiaq?

The interior quality of the Skoda Kodiaq is impressive, with a high level of fit and finish. It features soft-touch materials and a well-designed dashboard. While some areas may feel less premium, overall, the interior is of higher quality than expected for its price range, rivaling models like the Volkswagen Tiguan.

Q: What engine options are available for the Skoda Kodiaq?

The Skoda Kodiaq offers a range of engine options, including a 1.4L turbo petrol engine with 150 horsepower. While this engine provides decent performance, it may not achieve the claimed fuel economy of 49.6 miles per gallon. For those needing more power, especially for towing, 2.0L diesel options are recommended.

Q: What features come standard with the Skoda Kodiaq?

Standard features of the Skoda Kodiaq include an 8-inch color touchscreen with sharp graphics, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink for Windows phones. It also includes family-friendly elements like picnic tables, umbrellas in the doors, and a magnetic torch in the boot, enhancing its practicality and appeal.

Q: How does the Skoda Kodiaq offer value for money?

The Skoda Kodiaq offers value for money by providing a spacious, well-equipped SUV at a competitive price starting from £21,500. It includes many features typically found in more expensive vehicles, such as advanced infotainment systems and practical family-friendly elements, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Skoda Kodiaq is a versatile and spacious SUV, aiming to change perceptions of the Skoda brand by offering a blend of practicality and near-premium features. It competes with established models like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Land Rover Discovery Sport, offering good value for money.

• While the Kodiaq's comfort and noise insulation are not on par with premium SUVs, it marks an improvement for Skoda. The vehicle handles well, providing a stable and enjoyable driving experience on various road conditions, though it is not designed for off-road adventures.

• The interior of the Kodiaq is well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a host of modern features, including an intuitive infotainment system. It offers a range of engine options, with the 1.4L turbo petrol being a popular choice, though it may not meet its fuel economy claims.