New Škoda Kodiaq 2023 is not just a facelift, but a full-fledged update, which the Czech brand prepared taking into account the latest trends and wishes of the owners. The crossover retained its signature practicality and spacious interior with 7 seats, but received a modern design, improved technology and an expanded list of options. In this review, we will analyze all the key changes, technical characteristics, prices on the Russian market and give an honest assessment - is it worth overpaying for the updated version or is it better to consider alternatives.
The 2023 model was released taking into account the criticism of previous generations: engineers modified the suspension for better handling, expanded the range of engines and added hybrid versions. Particular attention was paid to the multimedia system - now it is 10" touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. But the main innovation is the system Travel Assist, which brings closer Kodiaq to the level of premium crossovers in terms of driver assistants.
Design: what has changed in the exterior and interior of the Škoda Kodiaq 2023
Updated Kodiaq received a more aggressive and modern look. The front end now looks more massive thanks to a new radiator grille with vertical chrome stripes, which visually expand the car. The headlights have become thinner and received LED optics in the basic trim levels (previously LED was available only in the top version). The rear part acquired a through LED strip, which added solidity to the crossover.
In the interior, changes affected primarily finishing materials and ergonomics. The steering wheel is now three-spoke with heating and touch media control buttons. The dashboard has become fully digital (Virtual Cockpit) even in mid-range trim levels. But the interior still remains one of the most spacious in the class - the distance between the rows of seats reaches 1040 mm, which is 20 mm more than that of the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace.
- 🔹 New radiator grille with 3D effect and chrome inserts
- 🔹 Matrix LED headlights (optional) with adaptive light
- 🔹 Digital dashboard 10.25 inches as standard
- 🔹 New body colors: Energy Blue and Magic Black with pearlescent effect
Pay attention to the details: the door handles are now hidden (in top versions), and the bumpers have received additional protection against chips. The interior has new trim options - aluminum inserts and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting stitching.
- New radiator grille
- LED optics
- Digital dashboard
- Interior with aluminum inserts
- I don't like anything
Technical specifications: engines, transmission and suspension
Engine range Škoda Kodiaq 2023 has become wider due to hybrid versions. The base gasoline engine is 1.5 TSI (150 hp), which is paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG. For those who prefer diesel, available 2.0 TDI (150 or 200 hp) with system AdBlue.
The main novelty is hybrid version of Kodiaq iV with the system plug-in hybrid. It combines a 1.4 TSI (150 hp) and an electric motor (115 hp), giving a total power of 245 hp. and the opportunity to travel to 60 km on electricity alone (WLTP cycle). Charging the battery takes about 3.5 hours from a household outlet.
| Engine | Power (hp) | Gearbox | Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) | Fuel consumption (l/100 km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 TSI | 150 | 6 manual transmission / 7DSG | 9,2 / 9,0 | 6,5 / 6,2 |
| 2.0 TDI | 150 / 200 | 7DSG | 9,8 / 8,0 | 5,2 / 5,5 |
| 2.0 TSI (4WD) | 190 / 245 | 7DSG | 7,8 / 6,9 | 7,8 / 8,1 |
| 1.4 TSI + electric motor (iV) | 245 (system) | 6DSG | 7,3 | 1.5 (hybrid cycle) |
The suspension remained independent on all wheels, but engineers reworked the settings of the shock absorbers and steering. Now Kodiaq It holds the road better at high speeds, and the steering wheel has become more informative. In versions with all-wheel drive 4×4 a new regime has appeared Snow for driving on snow and ice.
⚠️ Attention: Hybrid version Kodiaq iV has a towing limit - a maximum of 1300 kg (versus 2000 kg for gasoline and diesel versions). This is due to the load on the electrical system.
Options and prices of Škoda Kodiaq 2023 in Russia
On the Russian market Škoda Kodiaq 2023 Available in four trim levels: Active, Ambition, Style and L&K. Prices start from 3,890,000 rubles for the basic version with 1.5 TSI and manual gearbox. Top hybrid version iV will cost 5,450,000 rubles.
What's included in the basic package Active:
- 🔸 17" alloy wheels
- 🔸 LED daytime running lights
- 🔸 Dual zone climate control
- 🔸 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- 🔸 Cruise control and light/rain sensor
Version Style adds:
- 🔸 Full LED headlights Matrix LED
- 🔸 Virtual dashboard
Virtual Cockpit - 🔸 Electric trunk with function Virtual Pedal
- 🔸 System Travel Assist (adaptive cruise + lane keeping)
- 🔸 Keyless entry Keyless and start the engine with a button
☑️ What to check when buying Kodiaq 2023
It is worth noting that prices for Kodiaq increased by approximately 10-15% compared to 2022. This is due to the rise in prices of components and exchange rates. However, the Czech crossover still remains one of the most affordable 7-seater SUVs in its class.
⚠️ Attention: When ordering a hybrid version iV Check with your dealer to see if a charging station is available in your area. Not all Škoda service centers are equipped to service hybrids.
Test drive: how the Kodiaq 2023 behaves on the road
We tested Škoda Kodiaq 2023 with engine 2.0 TSI (190 hp) and all-wheel drive 4×4. The first thing that catches your eye is the silence in the cabin. Czech engineers have seriously worked on noise insulation: at a speed of 120 km/h, only a slight hum of the tires can be heard in the cabin.
Engine 2.0 TSI pulls great from the bottom, and the box DSG switches almost imperceptibly. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 7.8 seconds - this is enough for confident overtaking. All-wheel drive operates transparently: electronics distribute torque between the axles depending on road surface conditions.
The suspension is tuned for comfort, but does not rock the car when cornering. In mode Sport The steering wheel becomes heavier and the response to the gas pedal becomes sharper. But in mode Eco the crossover turns into an economical “fin”: the engine runs at lower speeds, and the gearbox shifts earlier.
How does the hybrid version behave off-road?
Hybrid Kodiaq iV not intended for serious off-road use due to restrictions on ground clearance (194 mm versus 197 mm for gasoline versions) and battery weight. However, the all-wheel drive system 4×4 allows you to confidently overcome snow drifts and wet primers. The main thing is not to forget that the electric motor turns off at temperatures below -10°C to preserve battery life.
The system deserves special attention Travel Assist. It combines adaptive cruise control and lane keeping, essentially allowing the car to drive semi-autonomously on the highway. The system recognizes road signs and automatically adjusts speed. However, in the city it is better to turn it off - it sometimes gets confused in the markings.
Pros and cons of Škoda Kodiaq 2023: honest analysis
Like any car, updated Kodiaq has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with the pros:
- ✅ Spacious salon with real 7 seats (unlike many competitors, where the third row is purely nominal)
- ✅ High level of security: 5 Euro NCAP stars, 9 driver assistance systems
- ✅ Hybrid version with an electric range of 60 km
- ✅ Practicality: 270 liters of luggage space in 7-seater mode (630 liters in 5-seater mode)
- ✅ High quality build without squeaks or backlashes (at the level Volkswagen)
Now about the disadvantages - there are fewer of them, but they are there:
- ❌ High price for top trim levels (especially hybrid)
- ❌ Weak dynamics the base 1.5 TSI (150 hp) with manual gearbox
- ❌ Stiff suspension in the version with 19-inch wheels (more comfortable on 17-18 inches)
- ❌ Expensive service hybrid version (battery replacement will cost ~500,000 rubles)
The Kodiaq 2023 is one of the few 7-seat crossovers that is truly suitable for a large family. Its main competitor is Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, but the Czech model wins in price and practicality.
If you want a reliable family car with a large trunk and a real third row, then Kodiaq - an excellent choice. But if you're looking for performance or a premium finish, it's worth a closer look. Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento.
Comparison with competitors: Kodiaq vs Tiguan Allspace vs Sorento
Main competitors Škoda Kodiaq 2023 - this is Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Parameter | Škoda Kodiaq | VW Tiguan Allspace | Kia Sorento | Hyundai Santa Fe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (from/to, RUB million) | 3,89 / 5,45 | 4,15 / 5,80 | 3,99 / 5,20 | 4,05 / 5,50 |
| Interior length (mm) | 2791 | 2791 | 2815 | 2815 |
| Trunk volume (l, 5 seats) | 630 | 615 | 605 | 571 |
| Max. power (hp) | 245 (hybrid) | 245 (hybrid) | 265 (hybrid) | 240 (hybrid) |
| Warranty (years) | 3 | 3 | 7 | 5 |
Kodiaq wins against Tiguan Allspace in price and trunk volume, but loses in premium finishing. Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe offer a longer warranty (5-7 years versus 3 for Škoda), but their hybrid versions are more expensive to maintain.
If reliability and practicality are important to you, take it Kodiaq. If you want premium for the same money - Tiguan Allspace. Well, if the priority is a guarantee and rich equipment, then Sorento or Santa Fe.
Owner reviews: real operating experience
We analyzed owner reviews Škoda Kodiaq 2023 on forums and social networks. Here's what they note most often:
- 🗣️ "Spacious salon — even an adult sits comfortably in the third row. U Tiguan Allspace It's cramped there."
- 🗣️ "Good sound insulation, but on 19-inch wheels the suspension is a little stiff. It's better to take 17 or 18."
- 🗣️ "Hybrid version It justifies itself only if there is somewhere to charge. Without charging, fuel consumption increases to 9-10 l/100 km."
- 🗣️ "Travel Assist system Works great on the highway, but sometimes gets glitchy in the city."
- 🗣️ "Service more expensive than the Koreans, but cheaper than Volkswagen."
Many owners complain about slow multimedia performance in basic configurations. There are also complaints about as a paint coating — on some copies, chips appear on the hood within a year.
Before purchasing Kodiaq 2023 Be sure to check the availability of a Škoda service center in your city with equipment for hybrids. Not all dealers can service iV-versions.
In general, the reviews are positive. Most owners note that Kodiaq Justifies its price due to practicality and comfort. The main complaints are about the price of top-end trim levels and the rigid suspension on large wheels.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Škoda Kodiaq 2023
🔹 How much does it cost to service a Kodiaq 2023 per year?
Average cost of service Škoda Kodiaq 2023 amounts to 30,000–50,000 rubles per year, depending on mileage and engine type. The hybrid version is more expensive - approx. 60,000–80,000 rubles due to the need to check the high voltage battery. Routine maintenance is carried out every 15,000 km.
🔹 Which engine is better to choose: 1.5 TSI or 2.0 TDI?
The choice depends on your priorities:
- 🔸 1.5 TSI (150 hp) — suitable for the city, cheaper to maintain, but rather weak for a full load.
- 🔸 2.0 TDI (150/200 hp) - ideal for long trips, more economical on the highway, but more expensive to repair (system
AdBlue, particulate filter).
If you often drive with a full load or tow a trailer, take 2.0 TDI 200 hp. Sufficient for urban use 1.5 TSI.
🔹 Can the Kodiaq iV Hybrid version tow a trailer?
Yes, but with restrictions. Hybrid version Kodiaq iV can tow a trailer weighing up to 1300 kg (for petrol and diesel versions the limit is 2000 kg). When towing, the electric motor is switched off and the car runs on internal combustion engine only. The top speed is also reduced to 100 km/h.
🔹 What is the warranty for the Škoda Kodiaq 2023?
Official guarantee for Škoda Kodiaq 2023 in Russia is 3 years or 100,000 km (whichever comes first). For hybrid version iV battery warranty - 8 years or 160,000 km. An extended warranty of up to 5 years can also be purchased from dealers.
🔹 When can we expect the next Kodiaq facelift?
Next generation Škoda Kodiaq expected no sooner 2026–2027. The current model (second facelift) will be produced without major changes until at least 2026. Perhaps in 2026 there will be a special version with improved finishing (e.g. Kodiaq RS or Scout).