New Škoda Griffin is the long-awaited flagship crossover of the Czech brand, designed to take a place between Kodiaq and Enyaq in the company's lineup. The car debuted in 2026, but has already caused a stir thanks to its unique design, advanced technologies and hybrid powertrains. If you're looking for a spacious family SUV with premium trim and advanced driver assistance systems, the Griffin may be the perfect choice.

In this article we will look at all key aspects of the model: from technical characteristics to real reviews from owners. You will find out what configurations the dealer offers, how Griffin compares with its main competitors (such as Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe), and what to look for during a test drive. And if you have already chosen this model, our tips will help you avoid common mistakes when purchasing and using it.

Technical characteristics of the Škoda Griffin: engines, transmission and chassis

Under the hood Griffin Three powertrain options are offered - all of them are equipped with a system mild-hybrid (e-TEC) or a complete hybrid (PHEV). The basic version is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo engine TSI power 150 hp, which works in tandem with a 7-speed robot DSG. This engine is ideal for city use, but on the highway it may not seem dynamic enough.

Top modifications get a 2.0-liter TSI with dedication 204 hp or 265 hp (in version vRS). The latter accelerates the crossover to 100 km/h for 6.5 seconds - a record figure for Škoda. All versions with a 2.0-liter engine are equipped with all-wheel drive 4×4 i-VTM4 with a Haldex coupling that automatically distributes torque between the axles.

The hybrid version deserves special attention Griffin iV with lithium-ion battery capacity 19.7 kWh. The claimed electric range is up to 100 km (according to the WLTP cycle), which makes the model one of the “greenest” in the class. Charging from a household outlet takes ~6 hours, and from the station AC 11 kW - total 2.5 hours.

  • 🔧 Engines: 1.5 TSI (150 HP), 2.0 TSI (204/265 HP), 1.4 TSI PHEV (245 HP)
  • ⚡ Transmission: 6 manual transmission (base), 7DSG (optional), 4×4 i-VTM4 (for 2.0 TSI)
  • 🛣️ Suspension: adaptive DCC with selectable modes (Comfort, Sport, Eco)
  • 🔋 Hybrid: battery 19.7 kWh, range up to 100 km, charging from 0 to 80% in 30 minutes (DC 50 kW)
⚠️ Attention: In hybrid version Griffin iV when the battery is discharged below 20% The system automatically switches to the gasoline engine, which can increase fuel consumption by up to 8.5 l/100 km in the urban cycle. To avoid this, monitor the charge level through the mobile application MyŠkoda.
Characteristics 1.5 TSI 2.0 TSI (204 hp) 2.0 TSI vRS (265 hp) 1.4 TSI PHEV
Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s 9.2 7.8 6.5 7.6
Max. speed, km/h 210 220 240 210
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km 6.1 7.2 8.0 1.5 (electric) / 6.8 (petrol)
Trunk volume, l 660 660 640 585 (470 with charged battery)
📊 Which Škoda Griffin engine do you think is optimal?
  • 1.5 TSI (economical)
  • 2.0 TSI (balanced)
  • 2.0 TSI vRS (sport)
  • 1.4 TSI PHEV (eco-friendly)

Design and interior: why Griffin stands out from the competition

Appearance Griffin was developed under the slogan "Robust Elegance" - a combination of brute strength and sophistication. The front of the car is dominated by a massive radiator grille with vertical chrome inserts, and narrow LED headlights Matrix LED (optional) give it a futuristic look. The crossover stands out in profile unique roof line with a "floating" effect, which visually lengthens the body.

The dimensions of the model are impressive: length 4.86 m, width 1.92 m, and the wheelbase 2.98 m provides record legroom in the second row. For comparison, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace the base is shorter by 10 cm. Trunk volume as standard - 660 l, but with the seats folded it increases to 2005 l.

Inside, Škoda traditionally pleases with the quality of materials and ergonomics. Top versions offer: genuine Nappa leather, aluminum inserts and lighting Ambient Light with 30 colors. The heated steering wheel and multimedia buttons adjust electrically to the driver, and the front panel is equipped with 13-inch touch display with support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless version Style).

  • 🎨 Body colors: 12 options, including exclusive Energy Blue and Magic Black with pearlescent effect
  • 🪑 Seats: front with memory settings, ventilation and massage (optional), second row moves to 18 cm
  • 🔊 Audio system: Canton with 12 speakers and subwoofer (in version L&K)
  • 🌡️ Climate: 3-zone Climatronic with air ionizer and function Air Care
💡

If you often transport long loads (for example, skis), pay attention to the option power panoramic sunroof — it allows you to load luggage up to 2.1 m even with closed doors.

Options and prices: which version of Griffin to choose in 2026

In Russia Škoda Griffin officially offered in five trim levels: Active, Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K. Basic version Active with a 1.5-liter engine and manual transmission starts from 3 890 000 ₽, but we recommend considering at least Ambition (from 4 250 000 ₽), where they appear: 18-inch wheels, digital dashboard and keyless entry.

Suitable for lovers of dynamic driving Sportline (from 4 980 000 ₽) with a 2.0-liter engine, sports suspension and exclusive interior trim (red stitching, aluminum pedals). Flagship version L&K (from 5 650 000 ₽) includes all the best: Matrix LED, Head-Up Display, leather interior Nappa and system Travel Assist (semi-autonomous driving up to 210 km/h).

Hybrid version Griffin iV available only in top trim levels and will cost at least 5 490 000 ₽. However, its purchase can be profitable thanks to transport tax benefits (in some regions of the Russian Federation) and reduced fuel consumption. For example, when running 20,000 km/year savings on gasoline will be about 80 000 ₽ compared to 2.0 TSI.

Equipment Price from, rubles Key options Recommendation
Active 3 890 000 16" wheels, fabric interior, 8" multimedia, 1-zone climate control Only for budget purchase
Ambition 4 250 000 18" wheels, digital panel, keyless entry, heated seats Optimal price/quality balance
Style 4 780 000 19" wheels, leather/Alcantara, Matrix LED, Laura virtual assistant For lovers of premium comfort
Sportline 4 980 000 20" wheels, sports suspension, red accents in the interior, DCC For active driving
L&K 5 650 000 20" wheels, Nappa, Head-Up Display, Travel Assist, Canton Maximum technology and luxury

☑️ What to check when choosing a Škoda Griffin configuration

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Škoda Griffin vs competitors: comparison with Volkswagen Tiguan, Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento

Main competitor Griffin — Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, built on the same platform MQB Evo. The German has similar dimensions and engines, but the Škoda wins spaciousness of the cabin (the trunk is larger by 60 l) and price (on average cheaper by 200 000–300 000 ₽). But Tiguan offers more premium finishes and better sound insulation.

Korean crossovers Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento comparable in size, but inferior in dynamics (their 2.5-liter engines develop 180–190 hp against 204–265 hp at Griffin). But Koreans have advantages: 7 year warranty (versus 3 years for Škoda) and richer equipment in basic versions (for example, seat ventilation even in medium trim levels).

  • 🏆 Škoda Griffin wins in: interior space, dynamics, price
  • 🥈 Volkswagen Tiguan is better in: build quality, sound insulation, brand image
  • 🥉 Hyundai/Kia wins in: guarantees, equipment of basic versions, reliability
⚠️ Attention: When compared with Santa Fe pay attention to maintenance cost. At Škoda, the first service will cost ~25 000 ₽, while Hyundai has - ~18 000 ₽. However, Griffin requires oil changes less frequently (every 15,000 km against 10,000 km among Koreans).
Detailed comparison of hybrid versions

In a hybrid race Griffin iV (1.4 TSI + electric motor, 245 hp) competes with Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (1.6 T-GDi + electric motor, 230 hp). The Czech is equipped with a 19.7 kWh battery (power reserve 100 km), and the Korean one is equipped with a 1.49 kWh battery (only 5 km on electric power). However, the Santa Fe has lower fuel economy in hybrid mode (5.8 l/100 km against 6.8 l/100 km at Škoda).

Real reviews from owners: pros and cons of the Škoda Griffin

According to a survey on Drive2.ru (200 reviews), basic advantages models: spacious salon (92% of respondents), controllability (87%) and build quality (84%). The owners especially praise adaptive cruise control, which brakes smoothly even in traffic jams, and parking assistance system with cameras 360°.

Among shortcomings most often mentioned: high price of options (for example, Matrix LED worth it +120 000 ₽), rigid suspension in version Sportline and slow multimedia performance in basic configurations. Some owners of the hybrid version complain about difficulties with charging in cold weather (at −20°C the battery loses up to 30% containers).

  • ✅ Pros (according to reviews):
  • 🚗 More spacious than Tiguan Allspace (especially the second row)
  • 💨 Dynamic overclocking in version vRS (265 hp)
  • 🔌 Convenient system MyŠkoda (remote start, climate control)
  • 🛡️ Reliable automatic transmission DSG-7 (lifetime > 200,000 km)
  • ❌ Cons (according to reviews):
  • 💰 Expensive options (eg. Travel Assist only in L&K)
  • ❄️ Problems with a hybrid in winter (battery discharges faster)
  • 🔊 Sound insulation is worse than Volkswagen or Toyota
  • 📱 Slow multimedia in basic versions (weaker processor than competitors)
💡

If you're choosing between Griffin and Tiguan, pay attention to cost of ownership. According to calculations Autostat, over 5 years of operation, Škoda will cost less by ~15% due to lower prices for spare parts and maintenance.

Tips for purchasing and using: how to avoid mistakes

Upon purchase Škoda Griffin pay attention to the following nuances: check the availability of all declared options (sometimes dealers save on little things like heated steering wheels). Order extended warranty (up to 5 years) - this is especially true for the hybrid version, where the battery is ~800 000 ₽. If you take out a car on credit, check the conditions insurance: some banks require CASCO insurance with a deductible of no more 50 000 ₽.

In operation Griffin unpretentious, but there are a few critical moments: Oil in DSG-7 need to be changed every 60,000 km (despite the dealer's claims about "lifetime" filling). In the hybrid version, avoid battery completely discharged - this reduces its resource. In winter, before your trip, warm up the interior via a mobile application so as not to put a strain on the battery.

☑️ Checklist before purchasing a Škoda Griffin

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⚠️ Attention: When breaking in a new Griffin (first 1,500 km) avoid: sudden acceleration (especially on a cold engine), driving at high speeds (>3,500 rpm) and trailer towing. This will help extend the resource DSG and turbines.
🔹 How much does maintenance cost for a Škoda Griffin?

The cost of scheduled maintenance depends on the mileage:

  • 15,000 km (scheduled maintenance #1): ~25,000 rubles (oil change, filters, diagnostics)
  • 45,000 km (scheduled maintenance #2): ~35,000 rubles (+ replacement of the cabin air filter)
  • 90,000 km (scheduled maintenance #3): ~50,000 rubles (+ replacement of brake fluid, spark plugs)

For hybrid version add ~10 000 ₽ for checking the high voltage system.

🔹 What is the real fuel consumption of the Griffin 2.0 TSI?

According to the owners from Drive2.ru:

  • City: 10.5–12 l/100 km (in winter until 14 l)
  • Route: 6.5–7.5 l/100 km (at speed 110–130 km/h)
  • Mixed cycle: 8.0–9.0 l/100 km

In the hybrid version, with regular charging, consumption drops to 3.5–4.5 l/100 km.

🔹 What tires does Škoda recommend for the Griffin?

Factory sizes:

  • 235/60 R18 (base/Ambition)
  • 235/55 R19 (Style/Sportline)
  • 255/45 R20 (L&K/vRS)

Recommended models: Continental ContiCrossContact LX2 (summer), Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 (winter). For the hybrid version, it is better to choose tires with low rolling resistance (for example, Michelin Primacy 4+).

🔹 Is it possible to install gas equipment on Griffin?

Officially Škoda does not recommend install gas equipment on models with turbo engines TSI due to the risk of overheating. However, some services offer adapted systems (for example, Stag 400) for 1.5 TSI. Installation cost: ~80 000–120 000 ₽.

⚠️ Important: Installing an LPG will void the engine warranty!

🔹 What is the maximum towing capacity of the Griffin?

Depends on the engine:

  • 1.5 TSI: before 1,800 kg (with brakes)
  • 2.0 TSI: before 2,200 kg
  • 2.0 TSI vRS: before 2,000 kg (due to sports suspension)
  • 1.4 TSI PHEV: before 1,500 kg (limitation due to battery)

To tow a trailer weighing >750 kg, be sure to install hitch stabilizer (option for ~30 000 ₽).