2021 Skoda Kodiaq 7-Seat SUV Review
Success in the SUV segment made the Czech carmaker thinking about further projects. One of them is a pickup truck. Still, the company will shift the biggest focus on the development of proven vehicles. The biggest model in the SUV lineup remains the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq, which will bring more changes next season. Every year, designers update the exterior and interior, making it fresh and eye-catching.
Two petrol and one diesel engines are offering total of five configurations. The company is already testing the new model – 2021 Skoda Kodiaq RS. The performance SUV will bring more power and torque, making it competitive with German and Japanese vehicles. There is also a coupe model in the lineup, but this SUV is available only for Chinese buyers. The company might surprise its fans and bring it to Europe as well.
2021 Skoda Kodiaq Specs
The largest and the most expensive vehicle in the family must have appropriate engines. The offer starts with a 1.5-liter petrol engine. Turbocharged, it creates 150 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This is the level of power that fits better into the compact class, not the mid-size. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and buyers can pick a seven-speed DSG automatic as well.
Another petrol unit for the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq is a 2.0-liter displacement. 190 horsepower is a better output and comes in combination only with an automatic transmission. The company is not bringing back a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mill.
Diesel Configurations
One engine, five different setups. A 2.0-liter turbodiesel can deliver 150-240 horsepower. The base configuration also makes 250 lb-ft of torque and needs more than 10 seconds to accelerate 0-60 mph. A 4×2 and 7-speed DSG are standard. The same outputs are available with the 4×4 system, but engineers pair it with a six-speed manual transmission.
The next level of performance adds 40 ponies and 45 lb-ft of torque. However, only four-wheel drive is possible and the 0-60 time drops under 9 seconds. The most powerful configuration delivers 240 ponies and 370 pound-feet of torque for the current 2021 Skoda Kodiaq RS. Max speed is 137 mph and this is the fastest model in the lineup (0-60 in less than 7 seconds).
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2021 Skoda Kodiaq Hybrid?
The Czech company is owned by the Volkswagen group. Since Germans purchased Skoda, the carmaker revived the interest in their vehicles. Crossovers are catching up with Superb sedan and Fabia hatchback. Do not be surprised if a hybrid engine joins the lineup. VW is proactive in this segment and the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq can benefit from the ID concepts. Still, these are electric platforms, but before these enter the market, the German manufacturer will deliver a couple of hybrid units. Soon after Tiguan and Touareg, Kodiaq hybrid is going to be available.
2021 Skoda Kodiaq Redesign, Changes, Coupe
The last big redesign of the SUV happened in 2018. Then, the Kodiaq received cosmetic treatment and engine updates. It is time for another portion of changes. The mid-cycle refresh will bring a new fascia, according to spy photos. However, it is clear that Skoda is testing the RS model since the SUV is closer to the ground. Also, we can expect an update of wheels and rims, as well as the rear fascia. Headlights and bumpers are getting a fresh look.
The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq RS will come with special updates, starting with the grille. Also, the sportier appearance will bring unique upgrades and paintjobs. The Kodiaq GT is probably the most attractive version in the lineup with the coupe body style. It is still questionable if the company is going to bring it to Europe.
The base configuration is coming with five seats. However, every other model after the entry-level SUV is a seven-seater. The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq could gain an extra inch or two after the next update, which will provide more space for occupants. Currently, rear seats are suitable only for children. Sliding second row can boost the room, but it is still far away from comfortable. On the other hand, passengers in the first two rows will have enough space.
Release Date and Price
The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq is the main release for the next season. So, the company will probably launch it in the last quarter of this year. However, everything depends on the development of the RS and hybrid model, and possible adaptation of the Kodiaq GT for the European market. It might become available after the base lineup hits dealerships.
For now, Volkswagen has no intention of sending vehicles with Skoda’s badge across the ocean. The base price of the SUV will depend on each market and country. The high-end model for Europe is RS and it will cost more than 50,000 GBP or converted to dollars, $65,000.
