Table of Contents
Introduction
The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq represents the second generation of this popular seven-seater SUV, bringing a fresh design, enhanced technology, and improved features while maintaining the practical, family-friendly approach that made the original model so successful. This latest iteration builds on Skoda’s reputation for delivering excellent value, impressive build quality, and thoughtful design in a package that performs above its price point. With its blend of premium features, spacious interior, and advanced safety systems, the 2025 Kodiaq positions itself as a compelling option in the increasingly competitive mid-size SUV market.
Design and Exterior
The 2025 Kodiaq maintains a familiar silhouette but introduces a more refined and modern aesthetic. The front features a bold, wider grille with vertical slats, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the vehicle a distinctive presence on the road. The Sportline variant offers blacked-out trim elements for a more dynamic look, while the L&K (Laurin & Klement) version adds tasteful chrome accents for a more elegant appearance.
At the rear, the new C-shaped LED taillights with dynamic indicators are connected by a full-width decorative strip, enhancing the vehicle’s premium feel. The SUV’s profile is characterized by clean, crisp lines and a slightly longer, sleeker appearance than its predecessor, with a dark chrome-finished D-pillar that adds a touch of sophistication.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq in global markets offers various powertrain options, including mild hybrid, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variants. However, the specifications vary by region:
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Transmission | Drive System |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TSI Petrol | 1984cc | 201 bhp @ 4500-6000 rpm | 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm | 7-speed DSG Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5 TSI e-TEC Mild Hybrid* | 1498cc | 148 bhp | N/A | 7-speed DSG Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 2.0 TDI Diesel* | 1968cc | 148-193 bhp | N/A | 7-speed DSG Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| Plug-in Hybrid iV* | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7-speed DSG Automatic | N/A |
*Availability varies by market
The India-specific model, for example, comes equipped with the 2.0-liter TSI petrol engine producing 201 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. This powerful and refined powertrain delivers a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.86 kmpl, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size with all-wheel drive capabilities.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the 2025 Kodiaq represents a significant step up in both design and technology. The cabin blends elegant materials with smart, user-focused design elements:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating | 7-seater configuration with flexible split-folding rows |
| Front Seats | Ergo seats with heating, cooling, and massage functions |
| Climate Control | Three-zone automatic climate control |
| Ambient Lighting | Multi-color ambient lighting system |
| Smart Dials | Multi-function rotary controls for easier access to features |
| Digital Displays | 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 10-inch digital instrument cluster |
| Connectivity | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging |
| Audio | Premium sound system with multiple speakers |
| Storage | Numerous clever storage solutions throughout the cabin |
A standout feature is Skoda’s “Simply Clever” solutions, which include thoughtful touches like umbrella holders in the doors, a parking ticket clip on the windshield, and a display cleaner integrated into the vehicle.
The versatile seating arrangement allows for excellent flexibility, with the ability to fold the third row flat when not needed, increasing the cargo space from 270 liters (with all seats up) to 794 liters. With both second and third rows folded, the storage capacity expands to a cavernous 2035 liters.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Kodiaq comes equipped with Skoda’s latest generation of infotainment and connectivity features:
- 13-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system
- 10-inch Digital Cockpit (virtual instrument cluster)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Voice control system with natural speech recognition
- Two 15kW wireless phone-charging pads with cooling
- Multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability (market dependent)
- Remote access via smartphone app
One of the innovative additions to the new Kodiaq is the Smart Dials system, which features three rotary controllers on the dashboard. The outer dials control climate settings, seat heating, and ventilation for each front occupant, while the center dial can be configured to control up to four different functions from a menu of six options, including fan speed, audio volume, and map zoom.
Safety Features
The 2025 Kodiaq earned a 5-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing, with particularly high scores in adult occupant (89%) and child occupant (83%) protection categories. The comprehensive safety package includes:
| Safety System | Function |
|---|---|
| Airbags | Up to 9 airbags, including front, side, curtain, and center airbags |
| Advanced Driver Assistance | Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) |
| Lane Assist with lane keeping | |
| Blind Spot Detection | |
| Front and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| 360-degree camera system | |
| Braking Systems | ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) |
| EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) | |
| ESC (Electronic Stability Control) | |
| ASR/Traction Control | |
| Other Safety Features | Tire Pressure Monitoring System |
| ISOFIX child seat anchors | |
| Electronic parking brake | |
| Auto-dimming rear-view mirror |
Variants and Pricing
The 2025 Kodiaq is offered in different variants depending on the market. In India, for example, it’s available in two primary trim levels:
| Variant | Features | Price (India, ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Sportline | Sportier exterior styling, black trim elements, sport seats | ₹46.89 Lakh |
| L&K (Laurin & Klement) | Premium chrome accents, higher-end interior materials, additional luxury features | ₹48.69 Lakh |
In other markets, the Kodiaq may be offered in different trims, such as the Select as the entry-level model, with the Sportline as a mid-range option and various special editions or top-spec models depending on the region.
Color Options
The 2025 Kodiaq is available in a range of attractive exterior colors, with seven options in the Indian market:
- Moon White
- Magic Black
- Graphite Grey
- Lava Blue
- Phoenix Orange
- Velvet Red
- Race Blue
Color availability may vary by market and specific trim level.
Competitors
The Kodiaq competes in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment against rivals such as:
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Kia Sorento
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Peugeot 5008
- Toyota Kluger/Highlander
- Mazda CX-80
- Land Rover Discovery Sport
Compared to many of its rivals, the Kodiaq offers a compelling value proposition with its combination of premium features, practical design, and competitive pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq different from the previous generation?
The 2025 Kodiaq represents a complete redesign with enhanced technology, improved comfort features, and updated styling. Key improvements include the new 13-inch infotainment system, Smart Dials for easier control of vehicle functions, revised seating with massage functionality, and a modernized exterior design. The vehicle maintains its practical seven-seat configuration but adds more premium touches and advanced safety features.
What is the fuel efficiency of the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq?
The 2025 Kodiaq with the 2.0-liter TSI petrol engine has a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.86 kmpl (kilometers per liter) in India. Real-world efficiency is estimated to be between 9-11 kmpl in city traffic and around 14 kmpl on highways. Efficiency figures vary by market and powertrain options, with mild hybrid and diesel variants generally offering better fuel economy than the standard petrol model.
Is the Skoda Kodiaq good value compared to premium brand SUVs?
The Kodiaq offers exceptional value when compared to luxury-branded alternatives, providing many premium features, excellent build quality, and sophisticated technology at a significantly lower price point. While it may not carry the prestige of a luxury badge, the Kodiaq delivers a comparable ownership experience with its refined interior, comprehensive safety features, and solid performance, making it an intelligent choice for value-conscious buyers seeking premium attributes without the premium price tag.
Conclusion
The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq builds on the strengths of its predecessor while addressing areas for improvement. It continues to offer the practicality, comfort, and understated appeal that made the first generation a favorite among premium SUV buyers, with even more refinement and technological advancement. While it may not carry the prestige of some luxury badges, the Kodiaq delivers an impressive blend of quality, functionality, and value that makes it a compelling option for families seeking a versatile, well-equipped seven-seater SUV.
With its smart design, thoughtful features, and strong performance, the 2025 Kodiaq truly lives up to its reputation as an SUV that does it all—whether that’s the school run, family road trips, or more adventurous outings requiring its all-wheel-drive capability. The Kodiaq remains true to Skoda’s brand promise of being “Simply Clever” while elevating the experience to new heights.
