Choosing a crossover often comes down to finding a balance between a spacious interior, a spacious trunk, and the ability to handle rough road surfaces. Škoda Kodiaq — one of the leaders in the class, combining family comfort and off-road ambitions. But how tall is he really? This parameter affects not only visual perception, but also practical aspects: from ease of landing to cross-country ability.
In this article we will look at exact height of all generations of Kodiaq, compare it with key competitors, explain how ground clearance affects the car’s behavior off-road and in the city, and also give advice on choosing a modification based on your needs. If you are planning a purchase or are simply interested in technical nuances, you will find answers to all your questions here.
Technical specifications: Škoda Kodiaq height by generation
First generation Kodiaq (2017–2023) was revolutionary for the brand - it was the first full-size crossover from a Czech manufacturer. Its height was 1676 mm as standard. However, this figure could vary slightly depending on:
- 🔹 Suspension type: cars with adaptive suspension
DCChad the opportunity to change the clearance in the range of ±15 mm. - 🔹 Options: versions with panoramic roof (Panoramic Sunroof) were 10–12 mm higher due to design features.
- 🔹 Sales market: for some countries (for example, Russia) modifications with increased ground clearance (+20 mm) were offered.
The second generation (from 2023) has undergone external changes, but the height remains almost the same - 1674 mm. However, engineers have reworked the geometry of the body: now the car looks more dynamic due to the changed proportions. It's important to note that ground clearance in the basic version decreased from 194 mm to 190 mm, which is associated with optimizing the center of gravity for better handling.
For comparison: height Kodiaq RS (sports version) is 1667 mm - 9 mm lower than the standard model. This is achieved through a stiffer suspension and low-profile tires.
- Height and ground clearance
- Length and trunk
- Engine power
- Price and equipment
Ground clearance of the Škoda Kodiaq: real numbers and their meaning
Ground clearance is the distance from the bottom of the car to the road surface. U Kodiaq of the first generation this parameter in the basic configuration was 194 mm, which was considered one of the best indicators in the class. However, after facelift in 2021 and the release of the second generation, the ground clearance was reduced to 190 mm.
Why is this important? Depends on clearance:
- 🚗 Patency: ability to overcome curbs, bumps and snow drifts.
- 🛣️ High speed stability: the lower the center of gravity, the less roll in corners.
- 🔧 Maintenance cost: Lower ground clearance increases the risk of damage to the engine protection on bad roads.
For comparison: Toyota RAV4 ground clearance is 195 mm, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace - 185 mm, and Hyundai Santa Fe - 185 mm. Thus, Kodiaq remains a leader in this parameter, despite a slight decrease.
⚠️ Attention: When installing non-standard wheels with a larger diameter (for example, 20 inches instead of 18), the actual ground clearance may decrease by 10-15 mm due to the reduction in tire profile.
| Model | Height, mm | Ground clearance, mm | Wheelbase, mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Škoda Kodiaq (2017–2023) | 1676 | 194 | 2791 |
| Škoda Kodiaq (from 2023) | 1674 | 190 | 2791 |
| Škoda Kodiaq RS | 1667 | 185 | 2791 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace | 1670 | 185 | 2791 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 1685 | 195 | 2690 |
How height and ground clearance affect handling and comfort
A tall car is always associated with good visibility and ease of entry, but this also has a downside. Let's look at the dimensions Kodiaq affect daily use.
Pros of a high body:
- 👁️ Visibility: The driver sits higher than in a sedan, making it easier to maneuver in the city.
- 🪑 Ease of landing: Passengers do not have to bend low to get into the car.
- 🌧️ Passability in snow and rain: Greater ground clearance reduces the risk of getting stuck.
Cons:
- 🌀 Roll in corners: A high center of gravity may result in less precise handling at high speeds.
- 💨 Impact of cross wind: On the highway the car may “steer” a little when there are gusts.
- 🅿️ Parking in low garages: the height of 1676 mm can be a problem for underground parking lots with height restrictions (usually 190–200 cm).
Engineers Škoda compensated for these shortcomings by:
- 🔄 Adaptive suspension
DCC: in modeSportthe ground clearance is automatically reduced by 15 mm for better handling. - 🛡️ Reinforced body: Torsional rigidity has been increased by 10% compared to previous models of the brand.
If you often drive on dirt roads, choose versions with the option Rough Road Package — it includes additional crankcase protection and increased ground clearance.
Comparison with competitors: who is higher, who is lower
To understand how much Kodiaq stands out from its classmates, let's compare it with its main competitors. It is important to take into account not only absolute numbers, but also the ratio of height to wheelbase - this affects the proportions and visual perception of the car.
For example, Toyota RAV4 9 mm higher (1685 mm versus 1676 mm for Kodiaq first generation), but at the same time has a smaller wheelbase (2690 mm vs 2791 mm). It does RAV4 more “short-tailed” and less spacious inside. On the other hand, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace almost identical in height (1670 mm), but inferior in ground clearance (185 mm vs 190–194 mm).
Stands apart Hyundai Santa Fe — its height is 1680 mm, and its ground clearance is 185 mm. At the same time, the Korean crossover has a more aggressive design with an emphasis on “off-road”, although in terms of real characteristics it is inferior Kodiaq.
Interesting fact: Kodiaq the second generation became lower by 2 mm, but visually seems more massive due to new bumpers and radiator grille. This is achieved through the play of light and shadow and more pronounced wheel arches.
Why does the Kodiaq appear taller than it actually is?
Škoda designers used several tricks to visually increase the height of the car:
- Black plastic covers on the arches and bumpers create the effect of a “floating” body.
- The line of windows rises towards the rear, which makes the car more “swift”.
- Short overhangs (the distance from the wheels to the bumpers) emphasize the dimensions.
Practical advice: what to consider when choosing a modification
If you are choosing between different versions Kodiaq, pay attention to the following nuances related to height and ground clearance:
- For the city: the basic ground clearance is optimal (190 mm). It provides enough flotation for curbs and potholes without sacrificing handling. Versions with 18-inch wheels will be more comfortable on asphalt.
- For out-of-town trips: consider modifications with
Rough Road Packageor adaptive suspension. They allow you to increase clearance if necessary. - For sport riding: Kodiaq RS with a ground clearance of 185 mm and a rigid suspension, it is suitable for lovers of dynamic control, but be prepared for a harsher ride.
Also consider:
- 🔧 Crankcase protection: in basic configurations it is plastic. For off-road use, it is better to install a metal one.
- 🎨 Body color: dark shades visually reduce height, while light shades increase height.
- 🚘 Trailer: When using a towbar, pay attention to the maximum load on the towbar (up to 2500 kg for Kodiaq with diesel engine).
⚠️ Attention: When installing a roof rack, the overall height of the vehicle increases by 30-50 cm. Make sure this does not exceed the limit for your garage or parking lot (standard 220 cm).
Measure the height of your garage|Assess the condition of roads in your region|Check for crankcase protection|Compare ground clearance with competitors|Check the possibility of installing adaptive suspension-->
Modernization: how to increase or decrease ground clearance
If standard height Kodiaq you are not satisfied, there are several ways to change it. However, each of them has its pros and cons.
How to increase clearance:
- 🔧 Spacers for springs: budget option (from 5,000 rubles), but may worsen handling.
- 🔄 Air suspension: allows you to adjust the height manually or automatically (from 150,000 rubles).
- 🚙 Larger wheels: for example, replacing 18-inch with 20-inch increases ground clearance by 5-10 mm, but reduces comfort.
How to reduce ground clearance:
- 🔩 Shortened springs: cheap solution (from 10,000 rubles), but can lead to suspension breakdowns.
- 🛠️ Sports suspension: a comprehensive solution with changes to shock absorbers and stabilizers (from 80,000 rubles).
Important: any changes in height affect:
- 📉 Suspension geometry: Improper modification can lead to accelerated wear of silent blocks and balls.
- 🔄 Electronics operation: For example, parking sensors may begin to work incorrectly.
- 📋 Guarantee: Most dealers will void the warranty if you tamper with the suspension.
Any changes in ground clearance must be accompanied by wheel alignment adjustments. Otherwise, the tires will wear unevenly, and the car may “slide” to the side.
Frequently asked questions about the height of the Škoda Kodiaq
Is it possible to install 21-inch wheels on the Kodiaq?
Technically yes, but this requires reworking the arches and changing the suspension settings. The standard maximum diameter is 20 inches. Increasing the wheel size will reduce ground clearance and worsen comfort on rough roads.
What is the ground clearance of a Kodiaq with air suspension?
In mode Normal ground clearance is 190 mm, in mode Offroad increases to 205 mm, and in mode Low (for example, for loading) is reduced to 175 mm.
Will the Kodiaq fit three child seats?
Yes, thanks to the cabin width (1500 mm) and the flat transmission tunnel. However, high chairs can touch the ceiling - check this when choosing a chair model.
How does the Kodiaq's height affect fuel consumption?
A taller car has a larger frontal area, which increases aerodynamic drag (air resistance). For this reason Kodiaq consumes 0.3–0.5 l/100 km more than, for example, Octavia with a similar engine.
Can I wash my Kodiaq in a high pressure car wash?
Yes, but avoid directing the water jet into the following areas:
- 🔋 Battery and fuse box (located under the hood on the right).
- 🚗 Parking sensors and cameras (especially in low temperatures).
- 🔌 Wiring connectors under the bottom (for example, for a towbar).