Skoda Kodiaq family road test review finds solid value for size and smarts

Approaching the end of its life cycle, the Skoda Kodiaq seven-seater remains a good value option

While close to a new generation, the Skoda Kodiaq RS remains a good-value proposition.

Call it a Kodiaq moment.

Pouring rain, the dash to shelter requires swift performance. Luckily, Skoda’s big SUV has an umbrella hidden in the door.

In the haste to get moving, swinging the door open there is a poorly located carpark pole. The Kodiaq has that covered as well courtesy of small plastic protectors which flick out to protect the door edge when open.

After spending time again in the seven-seater it’s easy to see why it was named News Corp’s Car of the Year back in 2017. It’s aged well.

Nearing the end of its generation, there is still ample value in the Kodiaq.

Our family tested the sporty range-topping RS version, which is about $77,000 once on-roads are finalised.

What do you get?

Proudly athletic, the RS cabin immediately showcases its ambition with a flat-bottom steering wheel and red stitched black leather trim (there are some man-made sections) that also extend to the dash and doors.

It also comes with a panoramic sunroof, an impressively clear Canton sound system with 12 speakers, 9.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with tri-zone aircon.

On the outside there are 20-inch alloys which look fast even standing still, LED headlights, dual stainless steel exhaust outlets and it’s available in white, grey, black, red, blue, silver or grey.

Previously restricted to five years, the warranty has been extended to seven. That’s up there with the best like Kia who set the original benchmark, while Mitsubishi now offers 10 years but restricted coverage is capped at 200,000km.

The prepaid servicing plan also covers seven years at $3350, which is about average compared to mainstream models. Most manufacturers only offer five years as part of servicing packages.

While more expensive than a two-wheel drive Santa Fe Highlander ($68,350), Sorento GT Line petrol ($69,690) or a VW Tiguan Allspace 162TSI R-Line ($63,990 MY23 offer), the all-wheel drive Kodiaq remains less than a Kluger Grande AWD ($83,900).

Skoda’s Kodiaq RS cabin features a Canton sound system with 12 speakers, 9.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a full digital driver display.

How was the drive?

Under the bonnet is an engine also used in the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Despite its size and weight, the Kodiaq manages the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.6 seconds – which is only two tenths slower than the Golf. It feels quick and responsive.

Skoda has done a better job with the artificial exhaust tuning and it delivers a throaty soundtrack from start-up.

Adaptive suspension makes the ride more cosseting in comfort, while it gets firmer if you dial things up to sport. The Kodiaq handles beautifully for an SUV, with limited body roll and accurate steering.

Our test saw fuel consumption creep to an average of 9.5L/100km – and it requires the more expensive premium unleaded. On the highway it returned mid-7s.

Despite being rated as a large SUV, the Kodiaq isn’t as bulky as a Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe or a Toyota Kluger. It sits between medium and large sizing but has impressive interior space and remains easy to park – although the turning circle of 11.6m is slightly larger than its aforementioned rivals.

The two chairs in the third row are best left to smaller adults or kids due to limited head and leg room.

Boot space with all seats in use is 270 litres, yet with the rear pair collapsed there was ample space for about 10 grocery bags and the middle row seats can also drop fast courtesy of handles in the boot to make light work of loading surfboards or bikes.

Drop all seats and the Skoda Kodiaq RS has an excellent load area.

Would you buy one?

Kel: I’ve always loved the Kodiaq but my biggest issue remains with the cupholders. They are useless, which is strange given there are so many smart things throughout the cabin. I’d need a solution for that and then I’d happily own one as I liked the drive and overall flexibility … for me that’s a big blocker.

Grant: With a new model imminent, the seven-seater Skoda remains a solid buy with all-wheel drive and a long list of equipment. My appreciation starts with the driving dexterity, it’s not bulky or cumbersome like most seven-seater SUVs, while some kit like a head-up display is missing, it’s still impressive for its age and has a great warranty. For those wanting athleticism and seven seats, it’s difficult to beat.