The Skoda Kodiaq has long been lauded for its practicality and spaciousness, making it one of the most car-like seven-seaters in the market. With the introduction of the second-generation model, Skoda aims to maintain its reputation while adding more features and a sportier edge with the Sportline variant. This review dives into whether the Kodiaq Sportline retains the charm of its predecessor and if it’s worth recommending for those seeking an engaging driving experience alongside ample room.
Launched back in 2017, the original Skoda Kodiaq made a significant impact with its blend of comfort and practicality. The second-generation model now offers three variants: Select, Sportline, and top-tier RS. While the base Select variant is priced at $56,990 drive away, our test unit was the more dynamic Sportline, which comes with a hefty price tag of $61,990. All variants are powered by Skoda’s reliable 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Kodiaq Sportline is equipped to impress from the moment you step inside. Leather upholstery, an electric driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a large 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system are just some of the features included as standard in even the base Select model. The Sportline further enhances these by adding sportier styling elements such as gloss black trim and darkened wheels. Under the hood, the engine produces an ample 140kW of power and 320Nm of torque, providing responsive performance that caters to both city driving and highway cruising.
Compared to its competitors in the seven-seater SUV segment, such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-80, and Volkswagen Tayron, the Skoda Kodiaq sits comfortably at a competitive price point while offering comparable space and features. The arrival of hybrid variants later this year promises even greater efficiency options for consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance or luxury.
One of the highlights of the second-generation Skoda Kodiaq is its enhanced comfort and technology offerings. Features like adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, nine airbags, and a comprehensive suite of active safety measures make it an attractive choice for family buyers who prioritize peace of mind. However, despite these improvements, some potential drawbacks remain: the third row is still primarily suited to children, and live services are not yet available in Australia.
In conclusion, while there’s no doubt that the Skoda Kodiaq Sportline represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, it remains to be seen whether the additional sportiness translates into everyday usability without compromising on practicality. With strong safety credentials and impressive features at an affordable price point, the new generation Kodiaq is certainly worth considering for those looking for a versatile family vehicle with added zest.
