Skoda Kodiaq global launch will happen in the early parts of 2017; production model will debut at Paris in October
Described by the company as “a great all-rounder” with strong road presence, Skoda’s all-new global SUV campaign will be headed by the Kodiaq which will make world premiere at the 2016 Paris Motor show. The Mladá Boleslav-based automaker has confirmed that it will be introduced in the beginning of 2017 in an official statement with prototype images being released.
The Skoda Kodiaq brings the brand’s new design language into the SUV segment and will be a standard five-seater with the option of seven-seat conversion. The standard model features the largest boot in its class and the longitudinally adjustable rear seats with backrest tilting provision are provided from the entry-level variant. The full-sized SUV will be based on the VW Group’s MQB platform and will share its underpinnings with the Tiguan while the design will be influenced by the Vision S Concept.
Also Read: India-bound Skoda Kodiaq SUV Imagined
The ‘Simply Clever’ philosophy has allowed for plastic door edge protection to avoid vehicle damage during garage parking and electric child safety lock for the youngest occupants alongside a sleep comfort package with special headrests. The infotainment elements emerge from Volkswagen Group’s second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix with capacitive touchscreens and Skoda Connect App.
The range-topping Columbus and Amundsen systems have WiFi hotspot and optional LTE module. It is divided into Infotainment Online services and Care Connect services for various functions with the must-have eCall emergency button mandated for Europe from 2018. Other important features are the SmartLink platform with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLinkTM and SmartGate among others.
Also Read: Production-Ready Skoda Kodiaq SUV Spotted Testing for the First Time
The variety of driving assistance systems available are Area View cameras displaying immediate surroundings on the screen, Tow Assist system, predictive pedestrian protection function, Parking Distance Control, etc. There will be a choice of five different engine options – two TDI diesel engines and three TSI petrol motors. The most powerful petrol mill is the 2.0-litre unit making 180 PS with a newly developed combustion process for better efficiency.
Also Read: Skoda Vision S Concept Premieres at 2016 Geneva Motor Show
The high-strength steel makes for lightweight construction and the transmission options to choose from are six-speed manual and DSG automatic transmission driving front wheels or all four wheel. The premium SUV features Driving Mode Select and the new Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) for dynamic performance besides a host of safety technologies.