Versatility and space. But style, technology and connectivity too. This is the mix underlying the Kodiaq with which Skoda takes its bow in the world of segment C Suv’s. A vehicle the management is saying is strategic for opening up new opportunities on the road to growth which in 2015 saw a million sales achieved.
With a length of 4.7 m (38 mm more than the Octavia), width of 1.9 and a height of 1.7, the Kodiaq expresses the directly incisive style developed by the team led by Jozef Kaban. A special feature is the double horizontal lines that mark the side, evoking strength and protection. We find the same “character” in the front zone where the bonnet ribbing flows into the centre of the big grille with the lighting clusters at its sides. The side windows taper off towards the tail where the lights are three-dimensional and the tailgate opens on to a compartment with capacity that varies from 720 to 2065 litres with 5 seats and from 270 to 2005 litres with seven.
The cabin wins space-wise (1793 mm in length) and the dash borrows the theme of overlapping lines from the exterior. Steering wheel and multiadjustable seats guarantee the correct ergonomics. And take note of two really clever touches: the umbrellas housed in the front panelling and the “automatic” protectors on the door edges.
There are four trim levels: Active, Ambition, Executive, Style. Numerous driver assist systems are available like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane change alert. Trailer Assist for manoeuvering with a trailer, Area View for 180 degree front/rear and overhead visibility. Also outstanding is the Connect system that manages the navigator and infotainment facilities, and the Car Connect that guarantees remote access to the vehicle.
To end, front wheel or 4×4 drive; six-speed and six and seven ratio DSG gearboxes (an absolute novelty for Skoda). Five engines: 1.4 litre TSI 92/110 kW and 2.0 TSI 132 kW petrol; 2.0 TDI 110 and 140 kW turbodiesel.
