Admittedly it’s not exactly the case, but I can’t help but feel that the 1st generation Kodiaq was the start of the BIG change, and new-found love of the Skoda brand for Kiwis. It was a remarkable 7-seater SUV that came loaded with ‘Simply Clever’ aids and stood out as an example of what the Czech brand was capable of. Well, the second generation Kodiaq has landed on our shores and we got to take it for a spin. (plus we got to see the new Superb and facelifted Octavia RS – but that’s for a different story, for another time).
In actual fact, the Kodiaq isn’t the first 7-seater in Skoda’s line-up, that, my friends, was a 1934 ‘640’ (a prelude to the Superb) with pop up seats at the rear. Nor was the Kodiaq the first SUV, that title belongs to the Trekka, manufactured in New Zealand between 1966 and 1972. But I stand by my opening gambit – the Kodiaq really kickstarted Skoda’s NZ economy.
But moving quickly on, the second-generation Škoda Kodiaq has landed in New Zealand, bringing with it a comprehensive redesign. In short, Skoda NZ are launching with 3 models and rather than giving them fancy names like Ambition or Life, there’s a 110kW TSI (petrol 2WD) Kodiaq, a 110kW TSI (petrol 2WD) Kodiaq +, and a Selection 142kW TDI (diesel 4WD). With the range appealing to the price sensitive ($54,990), the in-betweeners (TBC) and up to the sweet spot ($74,990). Oh and there is an RS on its way – but they were keeping deets close to their chest on that.
The new Kodiaq makes a striking first impression with Škoda’s fresh “Modern Solid” design language. It’s marginally longer (6cm) but on the whole casts a similar shadow, but the clever people at Skoda have improved passenger space in all three rows and enhanced the cargo capacity. Plus, aerodynamic efficiency hasn’t been overlooked, with active cooling shutters contributing to an impressive drag coefficient of 0.282.
The exterior showcases squared-off wheel arches, (that give it a more capable SUV look), a prominent new Škoda logo, and all complemented by sophisticated “Unique Dark Chrome” finishing in the case of the Selection. The standout features include next-generation LED Matrix beam headlights (standard on the upcoming RS variant) with 50% more light segments and an eye-catching “Flying Arrow” daytime running light signature. Also, no fog-lights, as the clever headlights negate the need.
Stepping inside reveals a completely reimagined cabin centred around a stunning free-standing infotainment display that measures up to 13 inches in the top spec. The innovative Škoda Smart Dials system introduces three tactile rotary controls with integrated digital displays, offering intuitive control over various vehicle functions – a quick push and they change function.
The gear selector is now mounted on the steering column to free up centre console space, and the cabin does really feel more spacious. The charging setup is particularly impressive, featuring four 45W USB-C ports and a new Phone Box capable of wireless charging for two BIG smartphones simultaneously.
As mentioned before, New Zealand buyers initially have access to two powertrain options, Base model and +, get a 110kW TSI, while the higher-spec variant gets a 142kW TDI. Both engines come paired with DSG automatic transmissions, and the more powerful TDI variant features standard all-wheel drive for enhanced capability in varying conditions.
Environmental consciousness is evident throughout the vehicle, with recycled textiles featured prominently in the cabin. The premium ecoSuite Design Selection, standard on the Selection TDI 142kW model, showcases sustainably tanned leather, demonstrating Škoda’s commitment to eco-friendly manufacturing.
With the introduction over, it was time for the drive and with the freedom to ‘go where we pleased’ for a couple of hours, we hot-footed it east from the airport to Clevedon and Maraitai, the coast basically.
Now I say hot-footed as, once free of the congestion, the new Kodiaq will happily spread its wings (a play on the ‘flying arrow’). It’s got plenty of torque and will overtake at will, and all without the rattling sound of an under-bonnet diesel – it’s remarkably quiet in the cabin.
Added to this is the quality suspension. The roads out east are not exactly renowned for their smoothness, yet the 7-seater absorbed all the lumps and bumps, while gripping the tarmac when necessary. A noticeable point was the lack of ADAS chimes (yes I know that doesn’t make grammatical sense). Modern vehicles have a tendency to nag the hell out of frisky drivers, but despite the new Kodaiq being ADAS laden (with enough airbags to double as a flotilla), it allows you to concentrate on the road ahead rather than what you’re doing wrong.
If I was to have one gripe, that would be the seating position. Definitely NOT the seat comfort, It’s excellent. It’s just a little high for me, I felt a bit riding on the SUV, as opposed to riding in. Oh and ‘Laura’ began as a man, until we changed him to her.
Last but by no means least, Skoda has retained its ‘simply cleverness’. From eco-friendly umbrellas to beefy trunk dividers. In fact, there’s so much of it that Skoda has cleverly put a QR-code in there to explain it all!
With its combination of bold styling, cutting-edge technology, and strong focus on sustainability, the new Kodiaq is well-positioned to make a significant impact in New Zealand’s competitive SUV market. The expanded dimensions, advanced features, and efficient powertrains should appeal to both existing Škoda customers and new buyers looking for a sophisticated seven-seat SUV option.
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