Choosing a family crossover with third row of seats always involves compromises: some are willing to sacrifice trunk space for additional seats, while others are looking for a middle ground between practicality and comfort. Škoda Kodiaq - one of the few European crossovers that offers 7-seater layout without compromising build quality or handling. But how comfortable is its third row in practice? Is it suitable for adult passengers or is it only suitable for children?
In this material we will analyze Kodiaq from the perspective of real owners: let’s analyze third row dimensions, interior transformation options, operating nuances and comparable with competitors like Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace or Hyundai Santa Fe. You will learn how to properly fold the seats to transport cargo, what accessories will make life easier for third-row passengers, and what to look for when buying a used one. Kodiaq with 7 seats.
Dimensions of the third row: who will be comfortable?
The main question that worries buyers: Will an adult fit in the third row? Škoda Kodiaq? The manufacturer's official data states that the ceiling height above the third row is 950 mm, and legroom up to 730 mm (with second row seats moved forward). In practice this means:
- 👶 Children under 10-12 years old feel quite comfortable, especially if the height does not exceed 150 cm. The width of the seats allows you to accommodate three children without cramping.
- 👨 Adults up to 175 cm tall will be able to sit in the third row, but only for short trips (up to 30-40 minutes). Your knees will rest against the backrests of the second row.
- 🚫 Passengers taller than 180 cm will encounter serious discomfort: the head will touch the ceiling, and the legs will touch the front seats, even with their maximum shift.
For comparison: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace legroom in the third row on 50 mm less, and Hyundai Santa Fe - on 30 mm more. Thus, Kodiaq occupies an intermediate position, but benefits from a flatter floor and is more comfortable x running boards.
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults (short trips)
- No one - we use it only for cargo
It is important to consider door opening width: in Kodiaq he makes up 680 mm, making it relatively easy to sneak into the third row. However, passengers with limited mobility may find this inconvenient. Owners recommend using door sill covers (article 5E0 061 150) to avoid scratches when landing.
Interior transformation: how to fold seats for cargo
Škoda Kodiaq offers several interior layout options depending on the configuration. In the basic version second row seats add up in proportion 60:40, and the third - 50:50. In top versions (for example, Style or Sportline) available:
- 🪑 Electric folding third row (optional
3E6) - allows you to control the seats from the trunk or from a button in the cabin. - 🔄 Individual second row seats (optional
3F6) - each seat is individually adjustable, making access to the third row easier. - 📦 System VarioFlex — allows you to completely dismantle the second row seats, increasing the trunk volume to
2065 l.
To manually fold the third row, follow these steps:
- Pull the lever on the back of the seat (located on the side, under the armrest).
- Lift the seat cushion up until it locks.
- Lower the backrest forward until it clicks.
☑️ Preparing for salon transformation
The trunk volume in a 7-seat configuration is 270 l (up to window level), which is enough for 2-3 bags from the supermarket or one medium-sized suitcase. With the third row folded, the volume increases to 630 l, and if you remove the second row - up to 2065 l (taking into account the space up to the ceiling). For comparison: Peugeot 5008 maximum trunk volume - 1940 l, and Kia Sorento — 2011 LL.
If you frequently transport long loads (such as skis), order from an authorized dealer mesh organizer for trunk (article 5E0 061 210 A). It will prevent the load from shifting during sudden braking.
Third row comfort: owner reviews and life hacks
Real reviews from owners Škoda Kodiaq with the third row of seats reveal several important nuances:
⚠️ Attention: In versions before 2021, there are no releases on the third row air deflectors. Passengers may feel stuffy in hot weather or cold in winter. The problem is solved by installing an additional fan (for example, Hella 8FF 008 141-551).
Among the most common complaints:
- 🔊 Noisiness: in the third row you can hear all the sounds from the road and the work of the suspension. Solved by installing floor sound insulation (set StP Shield).
- 💡 Lighting: The standard light is not enough for children to read or play. Many people install LED strips under the seats.
- 📱 Lack of USB ports on the third row in basic configurations. In versions Style There are ports higher up, but their location is inconvenient for passengers.
Lifehacks from experienced owners:
- 🧳 Use seat back organizers (for example, Thule BackPack) for storing small items.
- 👟 Place your feet under the third row passengers rubber mats (article
5E0 061 310) - this will reduce vibration. - 🎧 Useful for children wireless FM transmitter (for example, Nulaxy KM18) to connect headphones to the standard radio.
Interesting fact: in Kodiaq 2023 option appeared Rear Seat Entertainment - two 10-inch screens on the backs of the front seats with support HDMI and Wi-Fi. However, this option is only available in the package L&K and costs about 120 000 ₽.
Comparison with competitors: who offers the best third row?
To objectively evaluate Škoda Kodiaq, let's compare it with the main competitors in the 7-seat crossover segment:
| Model | Legroom (3rd row), mm | Ceiling height (3rd row), mm | Trunk volume (7 seats), l | Price (basic 7-seater version), rubles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Škoda Kodiaq 1.5 TSI | 730 | 950 | 270 | 3 890 000 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 2.0 TSI | 680 | 930 | 230 | 4 150 000 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GDI | 760 | 970 | 310 | 3 990 000 |
| Kia Sorento 2.5 T-GDI | 750 | 960 | 290 | 3 750 000 |
| Peugeot 5008 1.6 THP | 650 | 920 | 190 | 3 680 000 |
Key Advantage Kodiaq — optimal price-space ratio: it’s cheaper Tiguan Allspace, but offers more legroom than Peugeot 5008. However, in terms of comfort for adult passengers, it is inferior Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento, where the ceiling is higher and the door opening is wider.
Another important point - suspension. Kodiaq built on a platform MQB, which provides more “European” handling compared to the “Koreans”, but when fully loaded (7 passengers + luggage), the rear end may sag. Solved by installing air suspension (optional 1P6, ~200 000 ₽).
Which equipment should you choose for maximum comfort?
If you plan to actively use the third row, pay attention to the following options:
- 🪟 Panoramic roof (optional
3FA) - visually increases the space for third-row passengers. - 🌡️ Three-zone climate control (optional
9AC) - allows you to independently adjust the temperature for the third row. - 🔌 230V socket (optional
9V6) - useful for connecting a laptop or children's inhaler. - 🎵 Audi Sound System (optional
UA1) - the speakers are located so that the sound is clearly audible even in the third row.
Minimum equipment for comfortable use of the third row - Ambition with package Family. It includes:
- Electric folding third row;
- Heated second row of seats;
- Curtains on the rear windows;
- Additional cup holders for the third row.
⚠️ Attention: In complete sets Active and Ambition until 2022, the third row was not equipped seat belts with pretensioners. In the event of an accident, this increases the risk of injury. Check for this option (code 3GA) when buying a used car.
Cost of a new one Kodiaq with third row in 2026 starts from 3 890 000 ₽ (1.5 TSI engine, Active). The best option in terms of price/quality ratio - complete set Style with 2.0 TSI engine (4WD) for 4 550 000 ₽. On the secondary market 7-seater Kodiaq 2019-2021 can be found for 2 800 000–3 300 000 ₽.
Problems and disadvantages: what to look for
Despite the obvious advantages, Škoda Kodiaq There are several “diseases” with the third row that are worth knowing about:
- Plastic creaks on the third row - a common problem after 30,000–50,000 km. Solved by treating the fasteners with silicone grease (Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray).
- Fogging of windows when fully loaded - due to insufficient ventilation of the third row. Installing an additional fan or regular ventilation helps.
- Wear on the folding mechanism seats with frequent use. The service recommends lubricating the guides once a year (CRC 2-26).
Another problem is often discussed on owner forums: inconvenient location of the third row folding button in the trunk. In versions before 2020, it is too low, and you have to bend down to reach it. In new models, the button has been moved to the belt level.
What to do if the third row does not fold?
If the folding mechanism is jammed, do not force it! First, check to see if any foreign object is caught in the guides. Then try lifting the seat up slightly and pulling the lever. If the problem recurs, the drive cable needs to be adjusted (service work for 1-2 hours).
One more nuance - car weight. Kodiaq with third row and all-wheel drive weighs approx. 1800 kg, which affects fuel consumption. For example, 2.0 TSI in the city consumes 12–14 l/100 km (against 9–10 l/100 km in 5-seater version).
Accessories for the third row: what to buy additionally
To make third-row travel more comfortable, consider the following accessories:
| Accessory | Purpose | Article/Brand | Price, rubles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat covers | Protection against dirt and wear | Škoda 5E0 061 101 | 8 500 |
| Back organizer | Storage of small items (tablets, bottles) | Thule BackPack | 4 200 |
| LED interior lighting | Additional lighting for the third row | Philips 12V LED | 2 800 |
| Footrests for children | Comfortable seating in the third row | Brica Step-Up | 3 500 |
For families with children it will be a useful addition seat divider (article 5E0 061 200), which prevents fights in the backseat. It is also worth paying attention to sun blinds with magnetic mount (Climatizer, ~2 500 ₽), since on the third row the sun is more blinding.
When purchasing accessories, check compatibility with the year of manufacture of your Kodiaq. For example, covers for models 2017–2020 are not suitable for restyled versions (from 2021) due to the changed shape of the backs.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to install a third row in Kodiaq, if it wasn't there from the factory?
No, Škoda does not provide for the official installation of a third row on 5-seat versions. This is due to the design of the body and the location of the fasteners. Unofficial installation is possible, but will require welding and does not guarantee safety in case of an accident.
Which engine is better to choose for a 7-seater? Kodiaq?
For a full load (7 passengers + luggage) optimal 2.0 TSI (190 hp) with all-wheel drive. The 1.5 TSI is suitable for city use, but on the highway with a full cabin you will feel a lack of power. Diesel 2.0 TDI more economical, but less dynamic.
Is there a Kodiaq heated third row?
Heated third row is available only in trim levels Style and L&K as part of an option Heated Rear Seats (code 4A4). It is not available in basic versions.
How often should the seat folding mechanism be serviced?
The manufacturer recommends checking and lubricating the mechanism every 30,000 km or once every 2 years. Use silicone grease for plastic guides and graphite for metal parts.
Is it possible to transport to Kodiaq with a third row refrigerator or washing machine?
Yes, but only with the second and third row seats folded down. Maximum load length - 180 cm (from trunk to front seats), height - up to 100 cm. For transportation of household appliances it is recommended to use fastening straps (article 5E0 071 150).