Škoda Auto presented the second generation of the Kodiaq, taking sustainability, spaciousness and safety to a new level. The Czech car manufacturer’s SUV flagship has seen its dimensions increased once again and now features the first elements of the Modern Solid design language. The all-new Kodiaq comes with state-of-the-art infotainment systems, including an optional 13-inch screen and a head-up display. Innovative Škoda Smart Dials with haptic controls and a 10-inch Virtual Cockpit come as standard. The voice control system will from mid-2024 onwards become even more advanced with the integration of the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT. Škoda’s large SUV also adopts a new interior concept based on Design Selections. The five powertrains offer outputs from 110 kW (150 hp) to 150 kW (204 hp) and are always mated to a DSG automatic transmission. The powertrain line-up now also includes a plug in hybrid version with an electric range of more than 100 kilometres and an entry-level mild-hybrid powertrain. The two top engines are combined with all-wheel drive as standard. Also making their debuts are the latest generations of the LED Matrix beam headlights with a significantly higher light output and the Dynamic Chassis Control system (DCC Plus).
On the exterior, the cutting-edge second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights and the front grille featuring a horizontal light strip immediately catch the eye, while in the interior, recycled textiles and leather originating from an eco-friendly tanning process reflect the focus on sustainability. In addition to the new range structure with specific Design Selections and optional packages, the Kodiaq also features a new interior concept. The infotainment display is now free-standing, with a screen diagonal of up to 13 inches. A head-up display is optionally available for the first time. The gear selector lever is now mounted on the steering column, which lends the centre console a very clean and tidy look while adding extra space. The Škoda Smart Dials are another brand-new feature in the all-new Kodiaq – three rotary controls positioned below the infotainment screen. Combining haptic controls with a 32-millimetre colour display, they provide intuitive, easy and customisable access to various vehicle and infotainment functions. With the integration of the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT into its Laura voice assistant, Škoda is enhancing the in-vehicle experience of many customers and helping to make everyday life easier. The new ventilated Phone Box enables inductive charging of two smartphones at the same time, delivering 15 W of power.
With the second-generation Kodiaq, Škoda has further refined the SUV’s robust and sculptural design, giving it a more rugged appearance. In addition to the squared-off wheel arches, the new brand logo on the bonnet and tailgate lettering conforming to the new Škoda CI immediately catch the eye. The vehicle’s solid look is further enhanced by the new Unique Dark Chrome finish. The LED Matrix beam headlights and front grille with horizontal light strip and the interconnected LED rear lights with animated indicators are making their debut on the all new Kodiaq. With an increase in length of more than six centimetres, the Kodiaq now offers even more interior space for up to seven passengers and plenty of luggage. The new Škoda Kodiaq is available with two diesel and two petrol engines delivering outputs from 110 kW (150 hp) to 150 kW (204 hp). A new addition to the range is the Kodiaq iV fitted with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It offers a system power output of 150 kW (204 hp) and an all-electric range of more than 100 kilometres. On top of that, the 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 hp) marks the debut of mild-hybrid technology in the Kodiaq. The range-topping 2.0 TSI with 150 kW (204 hp) and 2.0 TDI with 142 kW (193 hp) come with all-wheel drive as standard. The powertrains in the new Kodiaq are always mated to a DSG automatic transmission.
The second-generation Škoda Kodiaq has a sculpted bonnet sporting a revised Škoda logo with a matt Unique Dark Chrome finish. It matches the distinctive frame of the hexagonal Škoda grille, which can be optionally illuminated with 14 light elements forming a light strip between the headlamps. Below the grille is a wide, continuous air intake with a honeycomb structure framed by the two cubist-inspired Air Curtains. The elongated roof line has been aerodynamically optimised and slopes gently towards the rear. The drag coefficient of the all-new Kodiaq has been reduced to cd = 0.282. With the second-generation Kodiaq, Škoda has further refined the SUV’s robust and sculptural design, giving it a more rugged appearance. In addition to the squared-off wheel arches, the new brand logo on the bonnet and tailgate lettering conforming to the new Škoda CI immediately catch the eye. The vehicle’s solid look is further enhanced by the new Unique Dark Chrome finish. The LED Matrix beam headlights and front grille with horizontal light strip and the interconnected LED rear lights with animated indicators are making their debut on the all new Kodiaq. With an increase in length of more than six centimetres, the Kodiaq now offers even more interior space for up to seven passengers and plenty of luggage. In addition, Škoda Auto has improved the model’s aerodynamics, achieving a cd value of 0.282. Major aerodynamic advances were achieved by introducing active cooling shutters and redesigning the front and rear bumpers.
Another highlight comes in the shape of the optional second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights. The new headlamps contain 50 per cent more light segments and offer more powerful light output than the first generation. Fitted as standard on the Sportline variant, with the option of a horizontal light strip on the front grille, they are a first for the Kodiaq. Two headlight modules arranged one above the other contain a Bi-LED module for the full beam and dipped beam and an inner Matrix beam module comprising 36 light segments. They create the typical four-eyed look of a Škoda SUV at night. Between the two vertically arranged “eyes”, a fine LED strip in the shape of a “Flying Arrow” serves as the daytime running light, parking light and indicator. A static corner light near the inside edge of the headlamp unit tapers towards the Škoda grille. The look of the LED Matrix beam headlights is also defined by Crystallinium. This crystalline element evoking coloured crystal glass brings a new splash of turquoise colour to the headlights. The basic version of the front headlights also uses LED technology exclusively, as do the standard LED rear lights. The optional LED rear lights with animated indicators (standard for Sportline) come with a red decorative strip with a crystalline structure that connects the two rear lamps together. The rear lamps are split into three sections, with a sharp design featuring crystalline elements.
The second-generation Škoda Kodiaq showcases a versatile range of modern and highly efficient engines that includes both petrol and diesel options. For the first time, the Kodiaq is also available with plug-in and mild-hybrid technology. The plug-in hybrid powertrain for the Kodiaq iV offers a system output of 150 kW (204 hp) and an all-electric range of more than 100 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. Mild-hybrid technology comes in the entry-level 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 hp). A 2.0 TSI petrol unit with 150 kW (204 hp) and two 2.0 TDI diesels with 110 kW (150 hp) and 142 kW (193 hp) respectively complete the range. The top petrol engine and top diesel come with all wheel drive as standard, and all engines are mated to a DSG transmission. Škoda is using the latest iteration of its plug-in hybrid powertrain to electrify the second Kodiaq generation. It features a 110 kW (150 hp) 1.5 TSI unit which, together with an electric motor, delivers a system output of 150 kW (204 hp), transmitted to the front wheels via a 6-speed DSG. The new high-voltage battery enables a purely electric range of more than 100 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 2.5 hours, with a maximum charging rate of 11 kW at domestic wallboxes and AC charging points. For DC charging, the maximum charging rate is 50 kW. Recharging the battery from 10 to 80 per cent takes just 25 minutes. Energy is also recuperated during braking. Despite the large battery, the Kodiaq iV offers a generous luggage capacity of 745 litres.
In addition to the Škoda Kodiaq iV, the SUV’s second generation is available with two petrol engines and two diesels, all mated to a 7-speed DSG. The entry-level 1.5 TSI petrol model with 110 kW (150 hp) is the first in the range to feature mild-hybrid technology using a 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. Energy recovered during braking can support the internal-combustion engine with an electric power boost or allow the SUV to coast with the engine completely switched off. Both hybrid engines belong to the latest EA 211 evo2 engine series. Operating on the fuel-efficient Miller cycle, they are equipped with a turbocharger that uses variable turbine geometry. The 1.5 TSI engine, with integrated mild-hybrid technology, also features latest-generation active cylinder technology (ACT+). The two 2.0 TDI diesel variants deliver outputs of 110 kW (150 hp) and 142 kW (193 hp). The range-topping diesel and petrol engines come with all-wheel drive. Additionally, all engines in this lineup meet the Euro 6e emissions standard. Emphasising efficiency and smooth running, all engines in the second-generation Kodiaq are tailored for the discerning driver. The second-generation Kodiaq is optionally available with the new DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control. This new version uses two independently controlled valves to separate the suspension’s rebound and compression stages. Previously, both functions were controlled by a shared valve. The new generation enables faster damping adjustment and a wider range of damping characteristics. Drivers and passengers will notice the difference in the form of faster responses, enhanced driving dynamics and increased comfort. Ground clearance with DCC Plus remains the same as with the standard suspension.
The new Škoda Kodiaq is now equipped with nano radar sensors. Positioned in the right and left corners of the front apron and rear bumper, they further enhance the performance of the state-of-the-art assistance systems, such as the upgraded Front Assist or Side Assist. Among the new assistance systems which increase safety and comfort are Turn Assist, Collision Avoidance Assist, Crossroad Assist and Exit Warning. Turn Assist responds with a warning and, where appropriate, automatic braking if there is a vehicle approaching when turning in the face of oncoming traffic. Collision Avoidance Assist automatically amplifies steering movements during sudden evasive manoeuvres. Crossroad Assist uses radar sensors and the front camera to warn of crossing traffic, cyclists or pedestrians when pulling out of a driveway or blind exit. Where appropriate, it triggers visual and acoustic warnings and then automatically applies the brakes. Exit Warning provides a visual warning in the exterior mirror as well as a warning sound when the door is opened while traffic is approaching from behind. It has a range of 35 metres and covers an angle of 120 degrees. With the latest version of Side Assist, the detection range for vehicles coming from behind increases from 70 to 90 metres for more safety, especially on motorways. This is due to more powerful nano radar sensors positioned in the corners of the bumpers. The improved Travel Assist offers enhanced visualisation of other nearby vehicles in the Virtual Cockpit. In the Assisted Drive package, Travel Assist includes Adaptive Lane Assist and Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (PACC). Working in concert with the Traffic Sign Recognition and navigation system, this anticipates bends, junctions and roundabouts.
