Skoda Kodiaq 2019 is the quintessence of the Czech approach to creating family crossovers: practicality, space and European quality at an adequate price. The model, which debuted in 2016, by 2019 had gained a reputation as one of the most balanced offerings in the class. 7-seater SUV. But is it worth buying? Kodiak today? What pitfalls does the restyled version hide? And why do some owners call it a β€œtank with a business class cabin”?

In this material we will analyze Skoda Kodiaq 2019 under the microscope: from engines and transmissions to third-row ergonomics and maintenance nuances. You will find out which configurations were relevant for the Russian market, how the car behaves off-road (spoiler: not as bad as it seems), and why diesel 2.0 TDI is still considered the best choice for long trips. And also - real data on fuel consumption in the city and on the highway, which the manufacturer chose not to advertise.

Technical characteristics of Skoda Kodiaq 2019: engines, gearboxes, drive

In 2019 Kodiaq was offered with four types of power units, of which three were officially supplied to the Russian market. Basic 1.4 TSI (150 hp) - a choice for city residents, but with reservations: its dynamics leave much to be desired when fully loaded. But 2.0 TSI (180 and 190 hp) - the gold standard for those looking for a balance between power and efficiency.

Stands apart 2.0 TDI (150 and 190 hp) - a diesel engine, which in Europe was sold with factory tuning for towing trailers. There are only a few such cars in Russia, but they are valued for real consumption is 5.8–6.5 l/100 km on the highway at a speed of 110–130 km/h. Unfortunately, since 2020, diesel versions have ceased to be officially supplied due to stricter environmental regulations.

  • πŸ”§ 1.4 TSI (150 hp): front-wheel drive only, 6-speed. Manual transmission or 7 speed DSG. Consumption in the city is up to 10.5 l/100 km.
  • πŸš€ 2.0 TSI (180/190 hp): 4Γ—4 all-wheel drive (Haldex), 7-speed only. DSG. Acceleration to 100 km/h in 7.8–8.2 seconds.
  • β›½ 2.0 TDI (150/190 hp): four-wheel drive, 7-speed DSG. Torque 340–400 Nm - ideal for towing.
Engine Power, hp Box Drive Consumption (mixed), l/100 km
1.4 TSI 150 6 manual transmission / 7DSG FWD 7.2–8.1
2.0 TSI 180 / 190 7DSG 4Γ—4 7.8–8.5
2.0 TDI 150 / 190 7DSG 4Γ—4 5.6–6.3
⚠️ Attention: Owners Kodiaq 1.4 TSI With a DSG gearbox, people often complain about jerking when changing gears at low speeds. The problem can be solved by flashing the control unit, but requires a visit to an authorized dealer. If you buy used, check the software update history!

Options and prices: what the official dealer offered in 2019

In 2019 Skoda Kodiaq in Russia it was sold in five trim levels: Active, Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K. Basic Active cost from 2.1 million rubles, but even it had LED headlights, dual-zone climate control and a multimedia system Swing with a 6.5-inch screen. Top L&K (from 3.2 million) added ventilated seats, a panoramic roof and a system Area View with 360Β° cameras.

The most popular option is Ambition (from 2.4 million). It already included:

  • 🎡 Audio system Bolero with 8" display and support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • πŸ” Keyless entry Keyless and start the engine with a button.
  • 🚘 Electric trunk with foot movement function.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Assistant package Travel Assist (adaptive cruise, lane keeping).

Now on the secondary market prices for Kodiaq 2019 start from 1.8 million rubles per Active with a mileage of 80–100 thousand km. Cars in top trim levels (Style or L&K) with a mileage of up to 60 thousand km can be found for 2.5–2.8 million. The main advice when buying: check the maintenance history - engines 1.4 TSI sensitive to oil quality!

πŸ“Š Which 2019 Kodiaq engine would you choose?
  • 1.4 TSI (economical)
  • 2.0 TSI (optimal)
  • 2.0 TDI (diesel)
  • I don't know, need test drives

Interior and ergonomics: how comfortable is the interior for 7 passengers?

One of the key advantages Kodiaq β€” spacious interior with the possibility of transformation. In its standard configuration, this is a 5-seat crossover, but for an additional fee (or in top trim levels) it was offered third row of seats. However, there are nuances here:

  • πŸ‘Ά Third row Suitable only for children under 12 years old or passengers up to 170 cm tall. Feet rest against the backrests of the second row.
  • 🧳 With the third row folded, trunk volume increases from 270 to 630 liters. For comparison: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace β€” 230/615 liters.
  • πŸͺ‘ The second row seats can be moved back and forth by 18 cm and the back angle can be adjusted.

Finishing materials depend on the configuration. B Active and Ambition - fabric with leather-like inserts, in Style and L&K - real leather Nappa with contrast stitching. The plastic on the dashboard is soft to the touch, but squeaks may appear after 50 thousand km (especially in the glove compartment area).

⚠️ Attention: In cars with a panoramic roof (Style/L&K) in summer the interior heats up to +50°C even with tinting. The solution is to install additional curtains or parking sensors with climate control.
How to fold the seats to transport large cargo?

To get the maximum trunk volume (2065 liters), you need:

1. Fold down the third row backrests (lever on the side panel).

2. Lower the second row seats into the floor (pull the hinges on the backrests).

3. If necessary, remove the head cushions of the second row (they interfere with a flat surface).

Attention: some trim levels have a two-level trunk floor - check for an additional compartment under the raised floor!

Chassis and handling: what has changed after the 2019 facelift

In 2019 Skoda Kodiaq underwent a light facelift, which affected mainly the appearance (new bumpers, LED optics) and the multimedia system. However, there were no changes to the chassis - it remained the same as the pre-styling version. This means:

  • πŸ”„ Suspension: front - McPherson, at the rear there is a multi-link. The stiffness of springs and shock absorbers is designed for European roads, so knocking noises may appear on Russian potholes after 30 thousand km.
  • πŸ›ž Steering: electric power steering with variable force. At high speeds the steering wheel becomes β€œempty” - a typical problem for the platform MQB.
  • πŸš— Four-wheel drive: system Haldex 5th generation with a clutch that connects the rear axle when slipping. In normal mode, the car is front-wheel drive.

According to owner reviews, Kodiaq confidently holds the track at speeds up to 160 km/h, but when overtaking at speeds of 120+ km/h there is a lack of power in the version 1.4 TSI. Diesel 2.0 TDI, on the contrary, pulls like a tractor, but requires high-quality fuel (at least Euro 5).

πŸ’‘

If you plan to drive on gravel or snow, install crankcase and transmission protection. U Kodiaq low ground clearance (194 mm) and vulnerable cooling system pipes.

Typical problems and weaknesses of Skoda Kodiaq 2019

Despite the reputation of a reliable car, Kodiaq 2019 has several β€œdiseases” that you should know about before purchasing:

  1. Box DSG-7: Jerks when shifting at low speeds (especially in traffic jams). Solved by updating the firmware to the version 0CJ 927 769 J or later.
  2. Turbine 1.4 TSI: Oil leakage through seals after 80–100 thousand km. Symptoms: blue smoke from the exhaust pipe, increased oil consumption.
  3. Electronics: Failure of parking sensors and rear view camera in winter (due to condensation). Treatment with sealant helps.
  4. Suspension: Knock in the front shock absorber struts after 40 thousand km. The official fix is to replace the support bearings under warranty.

Another common problem is headlights fogging. The reason for this is poor ventilation of the headlights. Solution: cleaning the drainage holes or installing additional membranes (article no. 6Q0 941 007/008).

Problem Manifestation Solution Repair cost, rubles
DSG jerks Shocks when accelerating 1st–2nd gear Software update or mechatronics replacement 0 (guarantee) / 120,000
Turbine leak Oil in intercooler, smoke Turbine replacement + system cleaning 180 000–250 000
Suspension knock Clicking noises when driving over bumps Replacing support bearings 25 000–40 000
πŸ’‘

Before buying used Kodiaq 2019 Be sure to check the DSG box software update history. Machines with firmware older than 2020 have a high risk of mechatronics failure.

Skoda Kodiaq 2019 vs competitors: comparison with Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe

Main competitors Kodiaq on the Russian market - Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe. All three models offer 7 seats, all-wheel drive and similar dimensions, but there are key differences:

  • πŸ’° Price: Kodiaq cheaper Tiguan Allspace 100–150 thousand rubles in similar configurations, but more expensive Santa Fe by 200–300 thousand
  • πŸ› οΈ Service: U Skoda and VW identical engines and gearboxes, but original spare parts for Kodiaq 15–20% cheaper.
  • πŸš— Controllability: Santa Fe softer and more comfortable on uneven surfaces, but Kodiaq more precise in corners thanks to suspension settings.
  • πŸ”§ Reliability: U Hyundai It’s easier and cheaper to repair turbines and automatic transmissions, but Skoda wins in terms of engine life.

If the priority is spaciousness and practicality, then Kodiaq out of competition: its trunk is 100 liters larger than that of Tiguan Allspace, and the third row, although cramped, is functional. For those who appreciate premium and guarantee, better take a closer look Santa Fe β€” it has richer equipment in the basic versions and longer official dealer support.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

Reviews on forums and social networks about Skoda Kodiaq 2019 polar. Here are some typical opinions:

πŸ‘¨ Andrey, Moscow (2.0 TSI, 45 thousand km):

β€œThe car is excellent, but the DSG starts to get dull after 30 thousand km. The dealer did a re-flashing - it got better, but the problem did not go away completely. Consumption on the highway is 7.2 l/100 km at 110 km/h. We rarely use the third row, but we are glad that it is there.”

πŸ‘© Olga, Ekaterinburg (1.4 TSI, 70 thousand km):

β€œIt’s enough for the city, but when overtaking you have to put a lot of pressure on the gas. In winter it starts without problems down to -25Β°C. The only problem is that the headlights fog up, I had to clean the drainage myself.”

Frequent complaints:

  • ❄️ Poor sound insulation (especially in the area of the arches).
  • πŸ”‹ Rapid battery discharge in winter (due to many electronic systems).
  • πŸ›£οΈ Stiffer suspension on uneven surfaces (compared to Santa Fe).

Advantages that everyone notes:

  • 🌟 Spacious interior and comfortable seats (even after 500 km you don’t get tired behind the wheel).
  • πŸ”§ Easy to maintain (many jobs can be done yourself).
  • πŸ’Ό Good resale value (demand for used Kodiaq consistently high).

Maintenance history (especially oil changes in 1.4 TSI)

Turbine condition (check for smoke)

DSG box software updates

Operation of electronics (cameras, parking sensors, climate control)

Integrity of crankcase and pipe protection -->

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Skoda Kodiaq 2019

πŸ”Ή Can the Kodiaq 1.4 TSI tow a trailer?

Officially, yes, but with reservations. Maximum trailer weight for 1.4 TSI β€” 1500 kg (with brakes). However, owners note that the engine β€œdoes not pull” on inclines, and the DSG gearbox overheats. For towing it is better to choose 2.0 TDI (max. weight - 2200 kg).

πŸ”Ή What is the real fuel consumption of the 2.0 TSI?

According to the owners:

  • City (traffic): 12–14 l/100 km.
  • Highway (110–130 km/h): 7.5–8.5 l/100 km.
  • Combined cycle: 9–10 l/100 km.

Consumption increases by 1–1.5 liters when using all-wheel drive (for example, in snow or rain).

πŸ”Ή What oil should I put in the 1.4 TSI engine?

Manufacturer recommends VW 502 00 or 504 00 (for gasoline engines). Optimal brands:

  • Castrol Edge 5W-30 (article 15669D).
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30.
  • Motul Specific VW 504 00 5W-30.

Replacement interval is every 15,000 km or once a year. For diesel 2.0 TDI oil is used VW 507 00.

πŸ”Ή How to enable Off-Road mode in Kodiaq?

In vehicles with all-wheel drive (4Γ—4) additional modes available:

  1. Start the engine.
  2. Click the button DRIVE MODE on the central tunnel.
  3. Select mode Off-Road (only available when all-wheel drive is engaged).
  4. In this mode, the differential lock is activated and the ABS/ESP settings are changed.

Note: the mode only works at speeds up to 30 km/h.

πŸ”Ή How much does maintenance cost for Kodiaq 2019?

Cost of scheduled maintenance at an official dealer (2026):

Type of maintenance Mileage, km Cost, rubles
scheduled maintenance #1 (oil change, filters) 15 000 8 000–12 000
scheduled maintenance #2 (+ air filter replacement) 30 000 12 000–15 000
scheduled maintenance #3 (+ brake fluid replacement) 60 000 18 000–22 000

Do-it-yourself maintenance costs 2-3 times cheaper (oil + filter - ~3,500 rubles).