Skoda Kodiaq launch on 4th October

Will be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel motor churning out 143bhp and 340Nm.

Skoda has taken it upon themselves to keep us auto journalists busy. Since the time they brought in the facelifted Octavia in July, they have managed to keep us on our toes. The Czech car maker brought in Rapid Monte Carlo last month and followed it up with sporty Octavia RS. Now, they have officially announced that the launch of their new Kodiaq SUV on 4^th October.

Based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, the Kodiaq is a full-sized 7-seater SUV that will surpass the Superb as the most expensive car in Skoda’s portfolio. The Kodiaq is based on the Vision S Concept that Skoda first showcased at the Geneva Motor Show last year. In terms of design, it is hard to mistake it to be anything but a Skoda, especially thanks to the wide mustache grille. In terms of proportions, it lives up to its Alaskan bear name. A long 2,700mm wheelbase ensures that there is good enough space on the inside. With the 190mm ground clearance and the AWD system you also have the hardware to have some fun in the mud.

At the heart of the Kodiaq, will be Volkswagen Group’s bread and butter 2.0-litre diesel motor. Interestingly though, despite its size, Skoda is likely to launch the Kodiaq in the 143bhp 340Nm tune and not the more powerful motor from the Superb. In terms of features, the Kodiaq will come loaded with touchscreen infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, LED lighting, hands-free parking, dual-zone climate control and more.

Expected to be launched between Rs 27-32 lakhs, the Skoda Kodiaq will compete against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and the Ford Endeavour. There won’t be a petrol engine on offer at the time of the launch but Skoda is likely to introduce it at a later stage.