New Skoda Kodiak Review: Smarter 7-Seater SUV Tested
Is the New Skoda Kodiak the Smart Choice for Family SUV Buyers?
Families comparing seven-seat SUVs face a critical dilemma: settle for bland practicality or sacrifice space for driving enjoyment. Skoda's redesigned Kodiak aims to solve this with its "simply clever" philosophy – but does this compact challenger deliver enough to compete against segment leaders like the Drive Car of the Year-winning Hyundai Santa Fe? After analyzing this comprehensive review video and evaluating its claims against market realities, I’ve identified where this Czech contender shines and where rivals still hold advantages. Let’s cut through the marketing to uncover what matters most for your family’s needs.
Engine Performance and Real-World Efficiency
The Kodiak’s upgraded 2.0L turbo petrol engine produces 140kW/320Nm – an 8kW improvement over its predecessor. Paired with a refined 7-speed DSG transmission and standard AWD, it delivers adequate but not exceptional performance. During highway testing, reviewers observed 7.5-9L/100km consumption, significantly better than Skoda's claimed 9.2L combined figure. However, this efficiency advantage disappears in urban driving where hybrid rivals excel.
Critical insight: The lack of hybrid option remains the Kodiak’s Achilles’ heel. Competitors like the Santa Fe Hybrid offer electric torque assistance during acceleration, delivering both responsive performance and lower running costs in stop-start traffic. While Skoda promises a plug-in hybrid variant later, it will only seat five – a major limitation for families needing seven seats with electrified efficiency.
Interior Innovation and Practical Solutions
Skoda’s cabin overhaul directly addresses frustrations with previous models. The 13-inch touchscreen runs responsive software with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though its placement causes accidental screen deactivation when reaching for navigation. The standout feature is the triple smart dial system below the display – a masterclass in intuitive design. These customizable knobs handle climate control (rotate for temperature, press for heated/ventilated seats), drive modes, fan speed, and audio volume.
Storage solutions showcase Skoda’s practical mindset:
- Dual wireless chargers and oversized door bins
- Removable center console organizer
- Tablet holders integrated into front seatbacks
- "Simply Clever" touches like the included screen cleaner
Professional evaluation: While some rivals offer more premium materials, the Kodiak’s thoughtful storage and unique dial interface demonstrate genuine understanding of family needs. The Sport Line’s suede/leather upholstery elevates the ambiance beyond the base Select trim.
Space Optimization and Family Readiness
Despite being physically smaller than a Santa Fe or Sorento, the Kodiak maximizes its footprint. Second-row slides 180mm with reclining backrests, accommodating 6'1" adults comfortably when rearward. Clever details include:
- Integrated sunshades and map pockets with phone holders
- Outboard heated seats (Sport Line Ultimate Pack)
- Three top tethers and ISOFIX across second row
The third row reveals compromises. While Skoda increased space over the previous model, it remains strictly child-sized with no ISOFIX or top tether points. Boot space impresses at 340L with seats up – larger than many rivals – featuring cargo hooks, a 12V socket, and a space-saver spare (unlike Santa Fe’s repair kit). The video reviewer notes, "This is where the Kodiak punches above its weight class, offering surprising utility despite its compact exterior dimensions."
Driving Dynamics and Comfort Tradeoffs
The Kodiak’s European tuning delivers unexpected agility for a seven-seater. Its precise steering and controlled body roll make it feel smaller than rivals during urban maneuvering. However, ride quality varies significantly by trim:
- Select (19-inch wheels, passive suspension): Best comfort balance, absorbing bumps effectively
- Sport Line/Launch Edition (20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension): Firmer ride with occasional body float over undulations at highway speeds
Road noise is noticeable on coarse surfaces, particularly in Sport Line trim. The video notes, "You’ll need to increase the audio volume on rough country roads – a rare miss in an otherwise refined package." Safety systems operate unobtrusively, avoiding the aggressive nannying common in some competitors.
Value Proposition Against Key Rivals
Skoda justifies the $1,700 price increase over the previous model with $5,700 worth of added equipment. Base Select models ($56,990 drive-away) now include:
- Leather upholstery and powered driver’s seat
- Tri-zone climate control and heated front seats
- 13-inch infotainment with traffic sign recognition
- Lane keep assist and full digital dash
The $4,000 Ultimate Pack for Sport Line adds adaptive suspension, head-up display, and surround-view cameras. When compared segment leaders:
| Aspect | Kodiak Advantage | Santa Fe/Sorento Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Driving Engagement | Sharper handling, more car-like feel | Hybrid efficiency, smoother stop-start |
| Third Row | Slightly more space than outgoing model | More adult-friendly dimensions |
| Value | More standard features at base price | Hybrid powertrain at similar cost |
| Practicality | Clever storage solutions, spare wheel | Larger overall cabin dimensions |
Verdict: Who Should Choose the Kodiak?
The new Kodiak excels for families prioritizing driving enjoyment and clever packaging over hybrid efficiency. Its standout interior usability and surprising space efficiency make it ideal for urban dwellers needing seven seats without SUV bulk. However, if you regularly transport older children in the third row or prioritize fuel savings in traffic, the Santa Fe Hybrid remains the segment benchmark.
Final thought from our analysis: The Kodiak’s delayed PHEV variant (as a five-seater only) represents a missed opportunity. Families wanting both electric efficiency and seven seats should monitor Kia’s upcoming EV9 or consider the Santa Fe Hybrid today.
Ready to experience the Kodiak? Consider these steps:
- Test drive both Select and Sport Line trims back-to-back on rough roads
- Install your child seats to evaluate third-row access
- Compare highway vs urban fuel figures with competitors
- Negotiate the Ultimate Pack as a value-add with dealers
"Which factor matters most in your SUV search – driving dynamics or hybrid efficiency? Share your priorities below to help other buyers!"
