Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Big bear: 2024 Skoda Kodiaq revealed with new hybrid powertrain, but will it come to Australia?

As the new Kodiaq is revealed, the current-gen gets a very small update in Australia.

Skoda has finally revealed the full design and details of its second-generation Kodiaq large SUV, previously only teased in camouflage guise with scant information.

Key to the new Kodiaq is its larger dimensions, which affords more space in Skoda's seven-seater.

The 2024 Kodiaq is now 4758mm long (+61mm), 1864mm wide (+22mm) and 1657mm tall (+2mm). Luggage capacity is now 340 litres behind the third row, 70L up on before, while its 845 litres with the third-row seats folded is 80L more than previously. With all the seats folded, the Kodiaq's capacity is 2035 (+30L over the first-gen model).

A petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid drivetrain will be available globally, with a mild-hybrid version of the petrol also on the cards, though Skoda Australia is focusing on petrol for the Kodiaq here.

The petrol version of the Kodiaq will boast a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, making 150kW/320Nm and paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox driving all four wheels. The mild-hybrid, which is not confirmed for Oz, runs a smaller 1.5-litre unit and makes 110kW/250Nm driving the front wheels via the same seven-speed dual-clutch.

The plug-in version of the SUV uses that smaller, less powerful petrol engine paired with an electric motor for a total 150kW/350Nm output to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The two diesel versions, which we also won't see here, are a front-drive set-up making 110kW/360Nm from a 2.0-litre turbo four, or an all-wheel-drive version with 142kW/400Nm. Both use a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Techwise, a 10.0-inch central multimedia display (a 13.0-inch screen is optional) and 10.0-inch driver display are the headlines, while a dual phone charger, four 45W USB-C ports, a 15W USB-C port on the back of the interior mirror, a head-up display and the inclusion of physical climate controls should keep occupants happy.

The gear selector has been moved to a column-mounted shifter, keeping the centre console essentially free of buttons or dials.

Heated seats with massage function, a heated steering wheel, a Canton Sound System with 14 speakers, along with several design choices are all options, but Australia specifications are yet to be confirmed.

Skoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer said the new Kodiaq brings with it more of the “features customers appreciate”.

“With innovations like the well-received Smart Dials and sleek interior materials, alongside elements from our Modern Solid design language and updated safety and assistance systems, the next-generation Kodiaq makes everyday exploring even more rewarding,” he said.

“We have also broadened our range of highly efficient powertrains, introducing a plug-in hybrid with an electric range of over 100km, furthering our commitment to sustainable mobility. “

The second-gen Skoda Kodiaq is set to land in Australia later next year, but until then the current Kodiaq range has been treated to a light update with the addition of side assist, rear traffic alert, auto dimming exterior mirrors and power child locks.

Chris Thompson
Journalist
Racing video games, car-spotting on road trips, and helping wash the family VL Calais Turbo as a kid were all early indicators that an interest in cars would stay present in...
About Author

Comments