It’s been a tough 18 months for Skoda in Australia, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
An ageing model lineup contributed to a sales slump that made 2024 a year to forget for the Czech carmaker, and the Kodiaq large SUV was one of several nameplates crying out for a makeover.
Now, just over three months into 2025, the wheel appears to be turning. The Enyaq has established itself within the electric SUV market, while the Octavia has been treated to a timely update.
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of the Kodiaq and Superb will debut locally later this year, as will the all-new Elroq and facelifted Enyaq.
Before then, we get this – the second-generation Kodiaq.
It’s dearer than before, but you get a lot more for your money. The base Select now comes with leather upholstery out of the box, as well as an upsized 13-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Skoda has thrown all its best safety tech at the Kodiaq, too.
Does that make it a knockout pick among the seven-seat SUV crowd, given the praise heaped upon the old model?
Possibly, but the Kodiaq has a long list of competitors to contend with. In this price bracket, the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-80, Toyota Kluger, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, and Kia Sorento are all viable options.
With that in mind, we headed to Bendigo in country Victoria to put Skoda’s new family-friendly SUV through its paces. Specifically, I drove both the Select base model and mid-spec Sportline.
How much does the Skoda Kodiaq cost?
While base pricing is up from the outgoing Style’s $53,990 drive-away deal, Skoda’s local division claims the Select offers $5700 of additional specification. The new Sportline is $2500 dearer than the runout price for the previous-generation model.
| Model | Price before on-road costs |
|---|---|
| 2025 Skoda Kodiaq Select 4×4 | $54,990 |
| 2025 Skoda Kodiaq Sportline 4×4 | $58,990 |
| 2025 Skoda Kodiaq Launch Edition 4×4 | $63,490 |
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What is the Skoda Kodiaq like on the inside?
Regardless of trim grade, there’s a lot to like about the interior of the second-generation Skoda Kodiaq.
Sportline 
Launch Edition
Even in base Select trim, the cabin is decked out in luxurious leather upholstery that won’t leave buyers wishing they spent up.
And for the first time, customers can choose from a black or cognac interior, free of charge. The brown leather finish really elevates the space, positioning the Kodiaq as a premium option in the segment.
For the mid-spec Sportline, cognac leather is replaced by soft, sporty suede that covers the door cards, dash, centre tunnel, and centre console.
All variants in the range feature textured soft-touch plastics for common touch points such as the dash and upper door cards, with hard plastics filling the gaps. Silver trim accents and stitching break up the mass of black.
While the cabin presents well, I was left a little disappointed by the Kodiaq’s coveted European build quality. Our test vehicles presented with annoying rattles from the dash and door cards, an issue you wouldn’t expect with near-new cars.
However, I have no qualms with the seating arrangement in Skoda’s family SUV. All versions of the Kodiaq feature the same torso hugging seats that offer rib and hip support in equal measure.
The base cushion is thick and forgiving too, although the integrated headrest can’t be adjusted to suit taller drivers.
The driver’s seat is power-adjustable regardless of variant, while both front seats are heated as standard.
Like other surfaces throughout the Kodiaq, the perforated leather steering wheel is a pleasure to interact with. It’s ergonomically shaped with clearly defined grip points, although I’d appreciate more steering wheel reach as someone who sits quite far back.
Seating comfort and material quality have always been Skoda strengths, but it’s in the technology department where the most significant gains have been made for this new-gen model.
The new Kodiaq packs a larger 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, up from 9.2 inches, as well as a familiar 10-inch digital instrument cluster.
My experience with the upgraded infotainment system got off to a rough start – the screen failed on first use, freezing on a blank Skoda screen until I restarted the vehicle.
From then on the unit was flawless from a reliability standpoint, especially when using wireless Apple CarPlay, and it also proved to be a step up in functionality.
The popular app grid layout remains, but the home screen is now entirely configurable with handy shortcut bars pinned to the top and bottom of the display.
That might sound a bit busy, but the screen is large enough to fit everything neatly and high resolution graphics make it easy to distinguish between icons. There’s also plenty of processing power built in, as the system responds instantly to touch inputs.
Native navigation and an off-road data display headline the handy inclusions, while the climate control menu contains presets for ‘warm feet’ and ‘warm hands’.
Behind the steering wheel sits an expansive digital instrument cluster with outboard gauges and a customisable centre readout – a simple design that will stand the test of time. Sportline and Launch Edition models are equipped with a similarly basic head-up display.
All the steering wheel and centre stack controls are intuitive, and Skoda has gone one step further by introducing innovative ‘Smart Dials’.
The trio of digital rotary dials look unassuming, but they are the user-friendly answer to the current trend of cabin decluttering.
All three dials are multi-purpose – the outboard pair control climate and seat heating, while the centre dial can be configured to adjust drive modes, fan speed and direction, audio volume, and map zoom. It’s a genius example of innovation that puts form and function on level pegging.
The revolutionary tech distils several buttons and switches down to one usable set of dials, which are more tactile than haptic buttons and easier to operate than a crowded infotainment screen.
Speaking of smart features, the Kodiaq also comes with a little whiteboard eraser for wiping fingerprints off the infotainment screen.
Attention to detail is also evident in the breadth of storage and connectivity options available up front.
Above the usual selection of trays and cubbies, the Kodiaq houses an extra lidded compartment above the glovebox, as well as trash containers in the door bins.
The centre console is nice and deep, while two wireless phone chargers have been shoehorned below the centre stack. A pair of USB-C outlets can be found nearby.
It’s a similar story in the second row, where passengers are treated to plenty of space and a host of welcome amenities.
The bench slides back for extra legroom when the third row isn’t in use, and there’s enough headroom for tall adults to get themselves comfortable.
The outboard seats are comfortable like those in the front, and heated in both the Sportline and Launch Edition.
Cabin lighting can be adjusted via window sunshades, although the driver is in control of the panoramic sunroof overhead.
Second row storage is plentiful. Seat back map pockets are complemented by a smaller phone sleeve, and the door bins are spacious.
Few cars come from the factory with second row entertainment screens, but the Kodiaq has the next best thing – rotating phone mounts built into the back of the front seats. A removable storage tray extending from the rear of the centre console is also unique to Skoda.
A couple of USB-C outlets, a 12V socket, dual air vents, and a centre armrest with integrated cupholders round out the list of rear creature comforts.
The Kodiaq is a member of the seven-seater club, although the third row is on the tight side compared to large SUV competitors.
Pitiful legroom limits use of the ‘back back’ seats to young children, but are no top tether points to secure a car seat.
As such, the Kodiaq is best treated as a five-seater with the third row reserved for emergencies. If you need to transport more than five people on a regular basis, the Isuzu MU-X and Hyundai Santa Fe are roomier alternatives, while a proper people mover such as the Kia Carnival exists specifically for that purpose.
Skoda has clearly prioritised boot space over third row practicality, as the Kodiaq trumps its rivals in this regard.
Cargo capacity comes in at 289L with three rows in place, 794L with the third row folded, and 2035L in two-seat configuration – all class-leading figures.
The powered tailgate lifts to expose a huge boot aperture with no pesky load lip, and there are plenty of mechanisms to secure loose items. There’s no step between the boot area and flat bench storage, so it’s easy to slide bulky items towards the front of the Kodiaq.
Further, there’s a 12V power socket, bag hooks, and ample lighting.
| Dimensions | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Length | 4758mm |
| Width | 1864mm (2133mm incl. mirrors) |
| Height | 1678mm |
| Wheelbase | 2791mm |
| Boot space | 289L (all seats up) 794L (third row folded) 2035L (second and third row folded) |
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
The entire Skoda Kodiaq launch range is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 140kW and 320Nm. The flagship RS is due later in 2025 and will pack more power.
| Specifications | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo-petrol 4cyl |
| Power | 140kW |
| Torque | 320Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drive type | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1885kg (tare) |
| Fuel economy (claimed) | 9.2L/100km |
| Fuel economy (as tested) | 9.7L/100km |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58L |
| Fuel requirement | 95 octane premium unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 209g/km |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capacity | 2300kg |
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Skoda Kodiaq drive?
The new Kodiaq falls short of greatness on the road, held back by an engine that’s crying out for electric assistance.
All three variants share the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol powertrain, which produces 140kW of power and 320Nm of torque.
For a big seven-seat SUV that weighs in at nearly two tonnes, that’s not quite enough.
Acceleration is merely adequate around town, and the engine is forced to work particularly hard during highway overtaking manoeuvres.
The lack of grunt is a minor inconvenience, but the bigger issue here is the inefficiency of the second-generation Kodiaq. Skoda quotes an average consumption of 9.2L/100km for the new Kodiaq, making it a little less frugal than petrol-powered alternatives, and far thirstier than hybrid rivals.
For example, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and Toyota Kluger GX both average 5.6L/100km, while the Kia Sorento Sport+ manages 6.0L/100km.
In our experience, the Kodiaq just about manages to hit its quoted consumption in the real world – hardly worth celebrating.
We didn’t get much of an opportunity to test the fuel economy in city conditions, as the test route predominately consisted of highways and country roads.
However, it’s clear that hybridisation could take the Kodiaq to a new level from a performance and efficiency standpoint.
On a positive note, the powertrain remains quiet and refined even when revved out.
The Kodiaq cruises relatively comfortably once it reaches triple-figure speed limits. It’s also smooth, with a linear power band, and never noisy nor unrefined.
Aerodynamic exterior design aids wind noise suppression, tyre noise is acceptable without being standout
Skoda’s ‘Travel Assist’ semi-autonomous driving system is one of the best in the business. When active, the technology works to subtly correct your lane position without ever coming across as overbearing.
Cruise control functions remain wedded to a stalk behind the steering wheel, which is a bit fiddly. Speed adjustments are made in increments of 1km/h or 10km/h, although making those adjustments is easier said than done.
That aside, the advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) in the Kodiaq are user-friendly and well-calibrated. We weren’t exposed to any unwelcome beeps and bongs, and there’s a permanent shortcut to the ADAS menu on the infotainment screen.
The turbocharged four-cylinder found in the Kodiaq is mated to a dual-clutch transmission offering quick shifts, with responsive paddles that feel directly connected to gearbox.
Volkswagen Group’s DSG transmission has previously been criticised for how it behaves at low speeds, but there was little indication of any jerkiness in the Kodiaq.
One key area where the three Kodiaq variants differ is ride comfort. The base Select is fitted with passive suspension, while the Sportline and Launch Edition gain Skoda’s Dynamic Chassis Control adaptive dampers.
It’s fair to assume that top-trim examples would offer a superior experience as a result, but that’s not entirely true.
The Select strikes a nice balance for our imperfect roads – neither too firm nor too soft. It also embraces corners, turning willingly with little body roll and neutral handling dynamics. All-wheel drive is standard across the range, and the base model feels composed because of it.
On the other hand, the Sportline we sampled was a bit unsure of itself despite boasting a more sophisticated suspension setup.
The DCC Plus system comes with 15 stages of adjustment and seven preset driving modes, but we struggled to find a sweet spot on Victorian country roads.
In Comfort mode, the Kodiaq is floaty and limp. Sport mode turns the dial too far in the opposite direction, stiffening the ride to the point that it’s too fidgety for a big family SUV.
Normal mode provides the best balance between comfort and road feel, although it’s not a significant upgrade over the standard suspension in the Select.
Regardless of variant, the new Kodiaq remains enjoyable to drive despite its pitfalls – all the driver inputs are refreshingly well-weighted, from the steering to the brake pedal and throttle.
And I suggest it would be a cinch to drive in the city, as the standard equipment list includes front and rear cameras, while a surround-view camera and ‘Intelligent Park Assist’ are cost options.
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
There will be three members of the new-generation Kodiaq lineup at first, with an RS flagship to follow later.
Launch Edition 
2025 Skoda Kodiaq Select equipment equipment highlights:
- 19-inch ‘Lefka’ alloy wheels
- Automatic LED headlights
- LED tail-lights
- Power-folding exterior mirrors
- Power tailgate
- Rear privacy glass
- Proximity entry with push-button start
- 10-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
- 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- DAB+ digital radio
- Satellite navigation
- 9-speaker sound system
- Tri-zone climate control
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Black leather upholstery with grey stitching
- Heated front seats
- Power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, memory
- 2 x wireless phone chargers with cooling system
- 5 x USB-C outlets (two front, two rear, one for rear-view mirror)
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Paddle shifters
- Colour-adjustable ambient lighting
Sportline 
Kodiaq Sportline adds:
- Matrix LED headlights
- LED tail-lights with dynamic indicators
- 20-inch ‘Rila’ alloy wheels with aero covers
- Black exterior trim
- Heated steering wheel
- Aluminium pedals
- Suedia/leatherette upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Front sports seats
- Black headliner
- ‘Premium’ sound system
- Drive mode selection
Kodiaq Launch Edition adds (over Select):
- Hands-free power tailgate
- Panoramic sunroof
- LED tail lights with dynamic indicators
- Matrix LED headlights
- Surround-view camera
- Dynamic Chassis Control
- Progressive steering
- Hill descent control
- Semi-autonomous parking assist
- Head-up display
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated, ventilated and massaging front seats
- Heated outboard second-row seats
- Canton premium sound system
- Cognac or Black interior trim
Options
A panoramic sunroof is a $1500 option on the Select and Sportline.
The Select can also be specified with 20-inch ‘Rila’ alloy wheels ($700) and a Cognac interior (no extra cost).
Ultimate Pack (Sportline; $4000) adds:
- Dynamic Chassis Control
- Progressive steering
- Hill descent control
- Canton sound system
- Power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, memory
- Heated rear seats
- Head-up display
- Semi-autonomous parking assist
- Surround-view camera
- Hands-free power tailgate
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Skoda Kodiaq safe?
The new Skoda Kodiaq wears a five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on Euro NCAP testing carried out in 2024.
| Category | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Adult occupant protection | 89% |
| Child occupant protection | 87% |
| Vulnerable road user protection | 82% |
| Safety assist | 81% |
Standard safety equipment across the range includes:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Cyclist detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Emergency Assist
- Lane-keep assist with Adaptive Lane Guidance
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Safe exit warning
- Traffic sign recognition
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Travel Assist (lane centring, adaptive cruise)
- Reversing camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- 9 airbags (front, front-centre, front-side, driver’s knee, and curtain airbags)
- Tyre pressure monitoring
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Skoda Kodiaq cost to run?
Skoda backs all its models with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
The brand offers prepaid service packs that can be bought upfront, or at any point before the vehicle’s first service. The five-year, 75,000km service pack will cost you $3000, while the seven-year, 105,000km plan is $3700.
| Servicing and Warranty | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 7 years, unlimited kilometres |
| Roadside assistance | Up to 7 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000km |
| Capped-price servicing | 5- or 7-year service packs |
| Total capped-price service cost | $3000 (5 years) $3700 (7 years) |
| Average capped-price service cost | $600 (5 years) $529 (7 years) |
To see how the Skoda Kodiaq lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Skoda Kodiaq
The second-generation Kodiaq is a worthy sequel that builds on the strengths of the original without introducing fresh flaws.
It’s even more practical than before, and the interior materials are befitting of a vehicle with European roots.
So is the latest version of Skoda’s infotainment technology, which looks the part and works for the driver, rather than against them.
Australian families will also appreciate the five-star safety rating and seven-year warranty, both of which sweeten the ownership experience.
So, although the first Kodiaq was a raging success for Skoda, the Czech manufacturer clearly hasn’t rested on its laurels.
That begs the question – why is the new Kodiaq still powered by the same turbo-petrol four-cylinder? It’s both underpowered and inefficient, especially compared to its hybrid rivals.
With a more capable powertrain, the Kodiaq would almost certainly be my pick of the affordable large SUVs.
Without it, this new family wagon still stacks up well without stealing the show. After all, it competes with some very competent vehicles – the Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Kluger, and Mazda CX-80, to name a few.
Competitive pricing works in the Kodiaq’s favour. The Select feels premium for a base model, while the Sportline and Launch Edition also represent decent value in a crowded market.
Volkswagen could be set to rain on Skoda’s parade with the launch of the new three-row Tayron, which is set to arrive in Australia later this year.
But for now, the Kodiaq is definitely worth shortlisting if you’re after an all-purpose vehicle that feels that little bit more special than most mainstream models.
Interested in buying a Skoda Kodiaq? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
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