Skoda has unleashed the 2025 Kodiaq in India, redefining luxury in the premium SUV segment with a refreshed design, cutting-edge tech, and unwavering performance. Priced from ₹39.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the seven-seater SUV targets affluent buyers seeking European sophistication blended with robust capabilities. Here’s a deep dive into what makes the 2025 Kodiaq a formidable rival to the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Citroën C5 Aircross.
2025 Skoda Kodiaq Price & Variants
The SUV debuts in three trims, catering to diverse buyer preferences:
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Style | ₹39.99 lakh |
| Sportline | ₹41.39 lakh |
| Laurin & Klement (L&K) | ₹42.99 lakh |
The L&K trim commands a premium for exclusive styling and tech upgrades, while the Sportline targets enthusiasts with sportier aesthetics.
Exterior Design: Bold European Flair
The 2024 Kodiaq retains its muscular silhouette but adds contemporary flair:
Front Fascia: Redesigned chrome grille, Matrix LED headlamps with dynamic indicators, and a sculpted bumper with aggressive air intakes.
Profile: Streamlined roof rails, chrome window surrounds, and new 18-inch Vega alloy wheels (19-inch optional on L&K).
Rear: C-shaped LED taillights, a roof spoiler, and dual exhaust finishers (Sportline).
Skoda’s Crystal Black and Lava Blue exterior shades amplify its road presence, with the Sportline featuring gloss-black accents.
Interior & Features: Czech Luxury Redefined
Step inside, and the Kodiaq pampers occupants with premium craftsmanship:
Digital Cockpit: 10.25-inch Virtual Display with navigation, terrain modes, and driver-assist alerts.
Infotainment: 8-inch Touchscreen (upgradable to 12-inch in L&K) with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
Comfort: Ventilated/Massage Seats (L&K), three-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof.
Ambience: 10-color ambient lighting, leather-dashboard stitching, and ergoComfort seats.
Practical Touches:
Simply Clever solutions: Umbrella holder, ice scraper, and retractable cargo blinds.
Boot Space: 270 liters (expands to 2,005 liters with rear seats folded).
Performance: Turbo-Petrol Muscle Meets AWD Agility
Under the hood, the Kodiaq relies on a trusted powertrain:
Engine: 2.0L TSI turbo-petrol.
Power: 190hp @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | 320Nm @ 1,500–4,100 rpm.
Transmission: 7-speed DSG automatic with paddle shifters.
Drivetrain: 4×4 AWD (standard across trims) with Drive Mode Selector (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Individual).
Performance Metrics:
0–100 km/h: 8.0 seconds (estimated).
Fuel Efficiency: 12–14 km/l (ARAI-certified).
The AWD system adapts to terrains, while Dynamic Chassis Control (L&K) enhances ride comfort on rough roads.
Safety: 9 Airbags & Level 2 ADAS
Skoda prioritizes occupant protection with:
Passive Safety: 9 airbags (including rear-side and driver knee), reinforced chassis.
ADAS Suite: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Monitoring.
Parking Aids: 360-degree camera, Park Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring.
The Kodiaq is expected to secure a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, mirroring global benchmarks.
Competitive Edge: Kodiaq vs Rivals
| Feature | Skoda Kodiaq | Volkswagen Tiguan | Hyundai Tucson |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L TSI (190hp) | 2.0L TSI (187hp) | 2.0L NA (156hp) |
| Transmission | 7-speed DSG | 7-speed DSG | 6-speed AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | FWD |
| Airbags | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Price (Starting) | ₹39.99 lakh | ₹38.50 lakh | ₹34.00 lakh |
Why the Kodiaq Stands Out:
AWD Standard: Unlike FWD Tucson and pricier Tiguan.
Space: Only 7-seater in its class.
Premium Feel: Superior interior materials and Skoda’s build quality.
Target Audience & Use Case
The 2024 Kodiaq appeals to:
Families: Spacious cabin and third-row practicality.
Adventure Enthusiasts: AWD capability for weekend getaways.
Luxury Seekers: Tech-loaded interiors rivaling German rivals.
Challenges for Skoda
Price Positioning: ₹4–8 lakh pricier than Tucson/Tiguan.
After-Sales Network: Limited service centers compared to Hyundai.
EV Shift: No hybrid/EV variant to counter Tucson Hybrid.
Verdict: The Understated Luxury Champion
The 2024 Skoda Kodiaq isn’t just an SUV—it’s a statement of European engineering prowess. While its price tag may deter budget buyers, the Kodiaq justifies its premium with unmatched safety, AWD agility, and a cabin that exudes sophistication.
For those willing to invest in a long-term luxury SUV that balances city elegance with off-road grit, the Kodiaq is a compelling choice. However, Hyundai’s Tucson and Volkswagen’s Tiguan remain strong alternatives for cost-conscious buyers.
Prices are ex-showroom. Features vary by variant. Visit Skoda India for test drives and offers.
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