When you choose a family crossover, trunk volume becomes one of the key criteria. ŠKODA Kodiaq - the flagship SUV of the Czech brand is famous for its practicality, but the numbers in the technical specifications often raise questions. How much does the trunk really hold in everyday use? How are the 5- and 7-seat versions different? And what tricks will help you make the most of your space?
In this article we will analyze not only the official data of the manufacturer, but also real tests of owners, compare Kodiaq with major competitors (including Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe), and also give practical advice on organizing the luggage compartment. If you are planning a purchase or are already the proud owner of this car, here you will find answers to all questions about its carrying capacity.
Official data: trunk volume of ŠKODA Kodiaq by version
The manufacturer declares different trunk volume indicators depending on the configuration and number of seats. It is important to understand that these numbers are measured according to the standard VDA (German) Verband der Automobilindustrie), which takes space up to roof level into account, but does not always reflect actual practicality.
For 5-seater version Kodiaq The official trunk volume is 270 liters with the rear seats fully raised and 2065 liters when folded. For the 7-seater modification these figures are more modest: 230 liters in standard position and 2005 liters when transforming the interior. The difference is due to the presence of a third row of seats, which “eats up” part of the usable space.
- 📏 5-seater Kodiaq: 270 l (standard) / 2065 l (max.)
- 👨👩👧👦 7-seater Kodiaq: 230 l (standard) / 2005 l (max.)
- ⚖️ Load capacity: up to 750 kg (depending on configuration)
- 🔧 Opening width: 1085 mm (convenient for loading large items)
An interesting nuance: some European sources indicate a volume of 270 liters for the 7-seater version, but this value is only relevant when the third row is folded. In reality, with all the seats up, the usable space is reduced to 230 liters - this is only enough for a couple of supermarket bags or a small suitcase.
- Up to 300 l (for everyday needs)
- 300-500 l (family trips)
- 500-1000 l (dacha, sport)
- More than 1000 l (travel, moving)
Real tests: how much does the Kodiaq trunk hold in practice?
Numbers from a technical passport are good, but what are things like in life? Owners ŠKODA Kodiaq share their experience of using the trunk in different scenarios. For example, with a fully loaded cabin (5 people + luggage), the 5-seater version can comfortably accommodate:
- 🧳 3 medium suitcases (size
60×40×25 cm) + backpacks - 🛒 Shopping from a hypermarket for a family for a week (including large packages)
- 🏀 2 bicycles (with the rear row folded) or 1 bicycle + stroller
- 🎿 Ski equipment for 4 people (skis up to 180 cm can be stowed without problems)
In the 7-seater version with the third row raised, the trunk becomes symbolic - only a bag of groceries or a small travel bag fits in there. However, if you fold the third row, the space increases to 630 liters, which is already comparable to the trunks of compact hatchbacks. A full load (as in the 5-seater version) can only be obtained with the second and third rows folded.
An important point: the loading height of the Kodiaq is 750 mm - this is lower than many competitors (for example, Toyota Highlander - 800 mm), which simplifies the loading of heavy objects.
| Usage scenario | 5-seater Kodiaq | 7-seater Kodiaq |
|---|---|---|
| Travel to the airport (4 people) | 4 suitcases + hand luggage | 2 suitcases (3rd row folded) |
| Summer season (tools, seedlings) | Shovels, bags of fertilizer, boxes | Only with seats folded |
| Buying furniture (IKEA) | Wardrobe PAX (120×58 cm) unassembled |
Only small items (bedside table) MALM) |
| Sports equipment | 2 bicycles + crossfit equipment | 1 bike or skis (without backpacks) |
Comparison with competitors: who is more practical?
To objectively evaluate the trunk Kodiaq, let's compare it with the main rivals in the class. To be fair, let’s take the 5-seater versions (since 7-seater modifications from all manufacturers suffer from a lack of space).
The leader in trunk volume among D-class crossovers is Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace (615 l), but its interior is narrower than that of Kodiaq. But Hyundai Santa Fe (571 l) and Kia Sorento (605 l) offer more space, but lose in opening width and ease of loading. I wonder what Peugeot 5008 with its 780 liters it looks like a winner in theory, but in practice the high loading opening and awkward trunk shape negate this advantage.
Why does Kodiaq outperform its competitors despite its smaller volume?
Thanks to the square shape of the trunk (without narrowing towards the wheel arches) and the low loading opening, the Kodiaq in practice is more spacious than many competitors. For example, it is easier to load large boxes or long loads (for example, boards or sleds) into it than into the narrow but high trunk of the Peugeot 5008.
- 🥇 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace: 615 l (but already salon)
- 🥈 Kia Sorento: 605 l (high opening)
- 🥉 ŠKODA Kodiaq: 270 l (but 30-40% more practical)
- 🏆 Peugeot 5008: 780 l (theoretically)
Main advantage Kodiaq - this is 40:20:40 folding second row of seats. This configuration allows you to transport long loads (such as a ladder or boards) without having to fold the rear seats completely down. Most competitors have only fully foldable backrests (60:40), which is less convenient.
How to increase trunk volume: 7 proven life hacks
Even if it seems to you that there are places in Kodiaq is not enough, there are several ways to optimize the space. Use these tips to accommodate more cargo without compromising passenger comfort.
Use trunk organizers (boxes, bags)
Fold the second row 40:20:40 for long loads
Remove the floor compartment (10-15 liters of space are hidden there)
Use hooks to secure bags on seat backs
Be aware of the load capacity (do not exceed 750 kg) -->
- Organizers and boxes. Plastic boxes with lids (e.g. Really Useful Box) will help structure the space. In the trunk Kodiaq ideally fits 2 boxes size
64×36×16 cm. - Mesh and elastic fastenings. Genuine accessories from ŠKODA (article no.
5E0 061 151) allow you to fix the cargo on the sides of the trunk, preventing it from moving. - Folding seats to zero. Unlike many competitors, in Kodiaq the backs of the second row fold almost flush to the floor, forming a flat platform 180 cm long.
- Use of space under the floor. There is a hidden compartment for storing small items (for example, a first aid kit or tools), which many owners do not use.
If you often have to transport large loads, pay attention to the original roof rack (article 5E0 071 100). It can support up to 75 kg and increases the total transport volume to 300 liters. However, remember that such an accessory increases fuel consumption by 0.3-0.5 l/100 km.
⚠️ Attention: When the trunk is fully loaded (especially with the seats folded down), check the pressure in the rear tires. The manufacturer recommends increasing it by 0.2 bar if the weight of the load exceeds 200 kg.
Common mistakes when loading the Kodiaq trunk
Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes that reduce the usability of the rack or even create dangerous situations on the road. Here are the most common ones:
- 🚫 Ignoring weight distribution. If all the load is placed on one side, this can lead to a shift in the center of gravity and poor handling. B Kodiaq optimal distribution - 60% of the weight closer to the seat backs, 40% - towards the rear door.
- 🚫 Third row overload. In the 7-seater version, the third row can only carry children or light loads (up to 50 kg). Adult passengers or heavy bags may damage the seat folding mechanism.
- 🚫 Unfixed cargo. In the event of sudden braking, loose objects can become dangerous projectiles. Always use a mesh divider (item no.
5E0 061 150). - 🚫 Forgotten things in hidden compartments. There is a storage compartment under the trunk floor where small items (such as umbrellas or gloves) often remain. Check it regularly!
Another typical mistake is trying to transport items in the trunk that exceed its dimensions. For example, the width of the opening Kodiaq is 1085 mm, but the distance between the wheel arches is only 980 mm. This means that wide boxes (such as refrigerator boxes) may not fit, even if they are the right length.
⚠️ Attention: If you transport animals in the trunk, be sure to use a protective net and seat cover. Hair and scratches from claws can ruin the trim, and repairs will cost 15-20 thousand rubles.
ŠKODA Kodiaq luggage compartment accessories: what you really need
The manufacturer and third-party brands offer dozens of trunk accessories, but not all of them are created equal. We have selected only those that will really improve the operation of your Kodiaq.
| Accessory | Article | Price (approximate) | Why is it needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber mat for trunk | 5E0 061 210 B |
3 500 ₽ | Protects against dirt and moisture, easy to clean |
| Mesh separator | 5E0 061 150 |
2 800 ₽ | Load securing, safety when braking |
| Organizer with compartments | 5E0 061 152 |
4 200 ₽ | Storage of small items (tools, first aid kit) |
| Bag hooks | 5E0 061 151 |
1 500 ₽ | Securing shopping or sports equipment |
| Roof rack | 5E0 071 100 |
22 000 ₽ | Transportation of oversized cargo (skis, bicycles) |
If you often travel with pets, pay attention to protective cover for trunk (article 5E0 061 211). It prevents damage to the covering and is easy to clean from wool. It will be useful for bicycle owners mounting kit (article 5E0 071 101), which allows you to transport up to 3 bicycles on the roof.
Before purchasing accessories, check their compatibility with your Kodiaq modification. For example, trunk mats may differ between versions with and without a third row of seats.
FAQ: answers to popular questions about the Kodiaq luggage rack
Can a standard size refrigerator be carried in the Kodiaq?
Yes, but only in the 5-seater version with the rear seats folded down. The maximum load height is 95 cm (up to ceiling level), and the width between the arches is 98 cm. Most refrigerators (e.g. ATLANT XM 4021-000 with dimensions 60x62x160 cm) will fit if laid horizontally. In the 7-seater version this is not possible without removing the third row.
How much weight can the Kodiaq boot support with the seats folded down?
The manufacturer specifies a maximum load capacity of 750 kg, but this value is distributed across the entire vehicle. For the trunk, the safe limit is 200-250 kg. Exceeding this weight can lead to sagging of the rear suspension and poor handling. When transporting heavy loads (such as bags of cement), distribute the weight evenly and check the tire pressure.
Will sleds or skis fit in the trunk of the Kodiaq?
The 5-seater version can easily accommodate:
- Skis up to 185 cm (with or without a cover)
- Snowboard up to 165 cm
- Sledge (eg. "Taiga" length 120 cm)
To do this, it is enough to fold one seat of the second row (according to the 40:20:40 pattern). The 7-seater version will require the third row to be folded, but even then the cargo area will be 160cm long.
How to protect the trunk from scratches when transporting construction materials?
Use the following:
- Rubber mat (original or universal from WeatherTech)
- Cardboard sheets (place under the load)
- Stretch film (wrap the sharp edges of the load)
- Protective net (item no.
5E0 061 150)
If scratches have already appeared, they can be removed using recovery pencil (for example, Fix It Pro), but deep damage will require re-upholstering of the skin.
How does the trunk in the restyled Kodiaq (2021+) differ from the pre-reform model?
After the 2021 facelift, changes in the trunk are minimal:
- Added led lights in the luggage compartment (previously there were halogen ones)
- The shape of the plastic lining on the arches has been changed (now they are less susceptible to squeaks)
- Appeared in top trim levels electric rear door with foot opening function
Trunk volume and cargo capacity remain the same. The main improvements concern ergonomics: for example, the seat folding button is now located on the side panel, rather than under the shelf.