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It is time for the Skoda Kodiaq to have a midlife facelift and it will go on sale here towards the end of the year. It’s already such a popular SUV in Ireland that it’s one of the top fifteen selling cars here so far in 2021 and no doubt Skoda would like to keep things that way.
The changes aren’t radical, designed more to give the Kodiaq a slightly more premium look and feel. Up front there’s a bold new grille, slightly higher bonnet and new lights. The Kodiaq will also be available with Matrix LED headlights, and it gets new dynamic LED taillights, the ones that swoosh from side to side. There’s also a new gloss black roof spoiler on all models and things called ‘finlets’ on the rear window as part of a number of design tweaks aimed at improving aerodynamics and reducing fuel consumption.
It’s all fairly familiar inside, with the main changes being some new trim options and the choice of recycled materials for the seats. You can also go posh with leather seats that can be heated or cooled and can even give you a back massage on the school run. The Canton sound system has also been improved and features two additional speakers.
What will its rivals be?
No change to its rivals, which means the Kodiaq is up against other popular SUVs, especially seven-seat models such as the Kia Sorento, Nissan X-Trail and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. Both Kia and Volkswagen have introduced new versions of their models this year and a new X-Trail is coming in 2022.
Any tech info?
The Kodiaq gets a new infotainment system with a touchscreen measuring up to 9.2 inches and over-the-air updates to keep everything current. There are more USB ports including USB-C technology and the optional Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation display.
Driver assistance systems have been updated with additional rear sensors for the Crew Protect Assist and there are improvements to some elements of the Travel Assist package such as better traffic sign recognition.
What will the range be like?
Trim options are expected to largely remain the same, including the Sportline and Laurent & Klement luxury versions, though the Scout version has been dropped from the line-up. The big change is the switch from diesel to petrol for the range-topping Kodiaq RS, but before you get excited, unfortunately the RS isn’t heading to Ireland, so you’ll have to settle for the regular petrol and diesel choices. Also, there are no electrified models, not even a basic hybrid.
Expectations?
The Kodiaq is likely to remain as popular as ever. Both five- and seven-seat options offer fantastic value and comfort, and the latest update gives it a slightly more upmarket look and feel that will help it stand out in the school or supermarket car park.