Bojan Vrbnjak
According to many predictions, trailers and a design study, it is Škoda finally fully introduced the second generation Kodiaq. Although we may not have expected it, it happened the flagship of Škoda SUVs changed a lot. From a new design, changed dimensions, more space on board for people and luggage to a completely new interior.
Under bonnet the entire range of powertrains has been updated, and a new version has also been introduced plug-in hybrid with reach 100 km in purely electric mode. Classic gasoline and diesel engines with a mild hybrid drive are also available. No wonder, because it is Czech SUV closely related to the new edition VW Tiguan. The new Kodiaq will also hit the market in the second quarter of 2024. currently unknown prices.
Exterior: Dimensions and shape
Skoda Kodiaq she has grown in all dimensions: she has become 61 millimeters longer and now measures 4,75 meters. Besides, it is 1,84 meters wide (without mirrors), 1,66 meters tall and it has 2,79 meters longer wheelbase, which favorably affects its spaciousness and luggage. Compared to the previous generation, it has changed a lot also changed the design. The logo stands out on the front Škoda, which is also adopted here and installed in a matte version on the hood above the large hexagonal radiator grille. This can be even if desired illuminated. Just like its all-electric sibling Enyaq IV. Below it is a narrow side-to-side air intake and two small ones vertical lattice on the sides. Everything is optimized for aerodynamics (value cW was reduced to 0,28) and cooling.
They have been changed exterior mirrors, renovated front and rear bumper, the wheels are aerodynamically shaped, and a small one is also added roof spoiler. The headlights are divided: there is a short one at the top beam of light, and at the bottom LED matrix module, which has 50 percent more light segments than before and 15 percent more light output. The latter is an additional equipment, it is installed as standard only in the highest version"Sportline". The rear lights are also complete LED and have an animated welcome feature and dynamic turn signals. The profile is defined by large 17- to 20-in wheels and trapezoidal wheel arches.
Interior: Trunk, spaciousness and technology
Like the previous generation, it is also the new Škoda SUV can be configured as seven-seater vehicle. Passengers in the third row should now have more head and knee room. Luggage space increased by 75 liters per 910 liters total volume. When the second row is folded, the volume is even 2.105 liters. In the seven-seat version, the volume increases with 340 liters for the third row of seats (845 liters if only five of the seven seats are used) on 2.035 liters. Lots of space. From the driver's seat, immediately focus on 10-inch screen behind the wheel and 13-inch infotainment system. The design of the dashboard has become a little simpler and neater.
Kodiaq is now managed almost exclusively through infotainment system. With the exception of the air conditioner, for which some space has been reserved on the center console. The unit consists of buttons and rotary knobs with small screens in the middle. From the driver's seat, immediately direct your gaze to the 10-inch screen behind the steering wheel and 13-inch infotainment system. The design of the dashboard has become somewhat simpler and neater. First time with the brand Škoda it is also a selector lever DSG installed on steering column, which increases the space in the center tunnel (as in the new Tiguan). There is also a new display head-up and five serial sockets USB-C for charging - three in the front and two in the back. A panel for induction charging smartphones. All systems are networked and there is a choice of recycled fabric upholstery for the seats and dashboard.
Drives: Petrol, diesel, hybrid
The new Skoda Kodiaq comes to the market with a diverse range of engines. It is at the top of the range plug-in hybrid, which combines 1,5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and achieves system power 204 BAM. In this case, propulsion is provided by front-wheel drive. He manages everything 6-speed DSG gearbox. According to the technical data, the new one can Kodiaq in fully electric mode it transports more than 100 kilometers, relying on a built-in charger with 11 kW AC and 50 kW DC. Two more petrol and two diesel engines are available, which are serially connected to the 7- a DSG gearbox. As in the new VW Passat and the upcoming Tiguan, the manual gearshift is omitted.
Mild hybrid gasoline engine 1,5 TSI with 150 HP is the first in the model range to be equipped with 48-volt belt starters and 48 volt lithium-ion battery. The two diesel versions are both 2.0 TDI, which can reach 150 or 193 hp. A more powerful version can be combined with all-wheel drive. Very interesting is the setting with electronically controlled dampers, which are based on a new dynamic chassis control system DCCPlus with double valves, which we were able to test already in the pre-series test. Not all of them are lacking in equipment the latest driver assistance systems.
