2023 Skoda Kodiaq 1.5L TSI PHEV (204 HP)

Vehicle Overview

After selling almost 900,000 units from Kodiaq’s first generation in seven years, Skoda introduced the second generation of this nameplate in the Fall of 2023, promising smarter technologies and features.

When the first generation of the Kodiaq broke covers in 2016, it stirred the European SUV market. Later, the vehicle reached other continents and was sold in 60 countries. The Czech brand built it on the same MQB A2 platform shared with the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace or the Audi Q3, to name just two of its siblings. But thanks to its low price compared to the segment’s average, it gained popularity among those looking for a seven-seat vehicle able to go beyond paved roads and even do some light off-road on their way to camping sites or biking trails.

The second generation followed the cubist design language of the brand, although much more refined. At the front, the hexagonal grille with 13 vertical chromed slats was available with an optional light strip that ran above it. As a result, combined with the LED daytime running lights of the headlamps, it created a light signature, offering an upscale look for the vehicle. The angular headlights and fog lamps were separated by a strip, which was part of the tall bumper. On the lower side, in the apron, the automaker placed a secondary grille adorned by a hexagonal mesh and flanked by vertical vents. From its profile, the Kodiaq retained the same distinctive elements as its predecessor, featuring an ascending waistline ending into a raked-forward D-pillar at the rear side. Unlike the first generation of this mid–sized SUV, both the B- and the C-pillars were darkened to create the image of larger windows. With its raked-forward tailgate and the roof spoiler mounted at its top, the Kodiaq offered its customers a dynamic look.

Inside, Skoda made a clean design, uncluttered by too many buttons, but without being called a minimalist one either. The 13-inch touchscreen of the infotainment system stood atop the center stack in a free-floating position. Skoda adopted a new design for the HVAC system, with three rotary dials that featured 13-mm (0.5”) screens that showed various functions made by each dial. It was a combination of digital and analog made right. Fronting the driver was a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, fitted as standard for the entire range. Thanks to the longer wheelbase and bodywork, the seven-seat vehicle provided more room than its predecessor. As a result, even the two passengers seated in the third row had 920-millimeter (36.2”) of headroom, which was enough even for full-grown adults.

Under the hood, Skoda installed a choice of gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid drivetrains with either front- or all-wheel-drive systems. Still, the most powerful versions were fitted as standard with AWD. The 2023 Kodiaq iV (PHEV) provided 100 km (62 miles) of pure electric range, which was enough for the daily commute, and combined with the gasoline engine, it produced 204 PS (201 HP). The Kodiaq came fitted as standard with a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) gearbox for all grades.