Czech brand Škoda presented the second generation of the flagship crossover Kodiaq - a model that over the 7 years of the first generation has become a symbol of family comfort and practicality. New Kodiaq 2026 built on a modular platform MQB Evo, receiving a radically updated design, hybrid powertrains and advanced driver assistance systems. But the main thing is that the Czechs have retained their signature “chips” like unique system Simply Clever with 27 smart solutions for everyday use.

In this article we will analyze Kodiaq 2nd generation in detail: from external changes and interior to technical nuances, comparable with competitors like Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe, and also answer key questions from potential buyers. We will pay special attention hybrid versions, which appeared in the line for the first time, and a new multimedia complex with a screen up to 13 inches.

Design: revolution or evolution?

Appearance Škoda Kodiaq 2026 became the subject of heated debate even before the premiere. Designers abandoned the “soft” shapes of the first generation in favor of angular lines and a massive front end with vertical radiator grilles - a style that the brand calls «Modern Solid». The headlights are now thinner and equipped Matrix LED-technology with 36 LEDs each, and the rear part received a through light strip, like a flagship Enyaq.

Dimensions have increased slightly:

  • 📏 Length: +22 mm (now 4,758 mm) - due to the extended front overhang.
  • 📐 Wheelbase: +15 mm (2,787 mm) - more legroom for second-row passengers.
  • 🚗 Clearance: remained at the level 194 mm (with air suspension - up to 213 mm).
  • 🔄 Turning radius: decreased to 11.1 m thanks to the new steering.

A controversial decision was the refusal third row seats in basic configurations - now it is only available in versions Style and Sportline for an extra charge. But there are new body colors, including an exclusive one «Crystal Face» with a chameleon effect.

📊 What do you think of the new design of the 2nd generation Škoda Kodiaq?
  • Too aggressive
  • I like it, modern
  • The first generation was better
  • Doesn't matter

Interior: digital revolution and practicality

Salon Kodiaq 2026 is undergoing a digital transformation. The central screen is now 10 or 13 inches (depending on configuration) with support wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and voice assistant «Laura». The dashboard is completely digital (10.25 inches), with the ability to customize to suit your driving style.

However, the Czechs did not forget about practicality:

  • 🧳 trunk: 290–910 l (with third row) and 910–2,145 l (without it) - 30 liters more than its predecessor.
  • 🪑 Seats: front with ventilation, heating and massage (optional), second row shifts to 180 mm.
  • 🔌 Simply Clever: phone holder with wireless charging, retractable cup holder under the center tunnel, trunk net for small items.
  • 🎵 Audio system: optional Canton with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

Finishing materials have become more expensive: in top versions - leather «Nappa», decorative inserts imitating aluminum or wood, as well as interior lighting with a choice of 30 colors. However, some owners of the first generation note that the plastic on the dashboard has become harder, perhaps to reduce weight.

What is the Kodiaq's Simply Clever system?

This is a signature Škoda feature - a set of 27 “smart” solutions for everyday use. For example:

- Umbrella in the driver's door (in the Style package).

- Icebreaker in the bottle rack.

- Removable flashlight in the luggage compartment.

- Tablet holder on the front seats.

- Retractable threshold protection when boarding children.

In the new Kodiaq, the system has been expanded: wireless charging with cooling and a folding table for the second row have been added.

Technical characteristics: engines and transmissions

Second generation Kodiaq offers 5 power units, including two hybrids. All engines comply with the standard Euro 6d and work in tandem with 7-speed wet DSG (except basic 1.5 TSI with 6-speed manual transmission). Details in the table:

Model Type Power (hp) Torque (Nm) Acceleration 0–100 km/h (s) Consumption (l/100 km)
1.5 TSI Gasoline, turbo 150 250 9,2 6,1–6,4
2.0 TSI Gasoline, turbo 204 / 265 320 / 370 7,2 / 6,5 7,0–7,5 / 7,8–8,2
2.0 TDI Diesel, turbo 150 / 200 360 / 400 9,0 / 8,1 5,2–5,6 / 5,5–5,9
1.5 e-TSI (mild hybrid) Gasoline + 48V 150 250 (+20 Nm from the electric motor) 9,0 5,8–6,1
1.4 PHEV (plug-in hybrid) Gasoline + electric motor 245 (system) 400 7,8 1.5–2.0 (on electric power up to 60 km)

Stands apart plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which can travel up to 60 km on pure electricity (battery 13 kWh). Charging from a household outlet takes 4–5 hours, from Wallbox - about 2.5 hours. However, this version has not yet been certified in Russia due to lack of infrastructure.

⚠️ Attention: For owners of hybrid versions Kodiaq It should be taken into account that at temperatures below -10°C The electric range is reduced by 30–40%. Also, in cold weather, it is recommended to pre-warm the battery through a mobile application «Škoda Connect».

Suspension and handling: what has changed?

New Kodiaq built on a platform MQB Evo, which is lighter than its predecessor by ~50 kg through the use of high-strength steel and aluminum. The suspension remained completely independent (McPherson front, multi-lever behind), but has been modified:

  • 🔧 Shock absorbers: adaptive DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) with 15 setting modes (optional).
  • 🚙 Steering: electric power steering with variable gear ratio - now the steering wheel turns easier in a parking lot.
  • 🛣️ Air suspension: available in complete sets L&K and Sportline, regulates clearance from 171 to 213 mm.
  • 🔄 Drive: full 4x4 Haldex 5th generation with predictive torque distribution system.

In tests, auto experts note that Kodiaq 2026 has become more “obedient” at high speeds, but has lost some of the “softness” of the first generation - this is especially noticeable on rough roads with potholes. But directional stability has improved thanks to the new aerodynamic package (Cx = 0,28 against 0,33 from the predecessor).

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When choosing between adaptive suspension DCC and air suspension, take into account your driving style. DCC better suited for dynamic driving (modes Sport/Comfort), and pneuma - for off-road and frequent trips with a full load.

Safety systems and driver assistants

Based on crash test results Euro NCAP (2023) Škoda Kodiaq 2nd generation received 5 starsby typing 96% for the protection of adult passengers and 89% for the safety of children. Standard Ambition available:

  • 🚨 9 airbags, including knee for the driver and side for the third row.
  • 👁️ Front Assist with recognition of pedestrians and cyclists (works up to 85 km/h).
  • 🅿️ Park Assist with function Trailer Assist (assistance when maneuvering a trailer).
  • 🛣️ Travel Assist - semi-autonomous driving up to 210 km/h (holds lane, adjusts speed).

Top versions add:

- Night Vision (infrared camera for detecting animals and people in the dark).

- Area View with 4 cameras and a “transparent hood” function for off-road use.

- Emergency Assist — automatic stop if the driver loses consciousness.

⚠️ Attention: System Travel Assist requires clear markings on the road. On Russian roads with poor markings or in snowfall, it may turn off every 10–15 seconds, which annoys the driver. In such cases, it is better to use classic cruise control.

Prices and configurations in Russia (2026)

Official sales Škoda Kodiaq 2nd generation in Russia started in March 2026. Prices increased by 15–20% compared to its predecessor, but the brand positions the model as a “premium family crossover.” Current prices (as of June 2026) in the table:

Equipment Engine Drive Price (rubles) Features
Ambition 1.5 TSI (150 hp) Front from 4,290,000 17" wheels, fabric trim, 10" screen, climate control
Style 2.0 TSI (204 hp) Full from 5,150,000 18" wheels, leather, panoramic roof, Travel Assist
Sportline 2.0 TSI (265 hp) Full from 5,890,000 19" wheels, sports seats, black trim, DCC
L&K 2.0 TDI (200 hp) Full from 6,250,000 20" wheels, seat ventilation, Night Vision, air suspension

The cost of hybrid versions has not yet been announced - their appearance in Russia is expected no earlier than 2026. When ordering through the official website Škoda discounts apply until 150 000 ₽ when trade-in of an old car. Loan programs are also available from 4,9% per annum (with a first payment of 30%).

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The most favorable package in terms of price/equipment ratio - Style with engine 2.0 TSI (204 hp). It includes all the key safety and comfort options, except for “premium” features like seat ventilation.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

Main rivals Kodiaq 2nd generation on the Russian market is:

  • 🚗 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace: cheaper by 300–500 000 ₽, but tighter (trunk 230–700 l), less comfortable suspension.
  • 🚙 Hyundai Santa Fe: richer equipment in the base, but worse dynamics (engines up to 240 hp), guarantee 5 years vs 3 years at Škoda.
  • 🏎️ Toyota Highlander: more reliable, but more expensive to maintain, the hybrid version is weaker (249 hp against 265 hp at Kodiaq).
  • 🛡️ Kia Sorento: similar price, but worse sound insulation and less premium interior.

Main advantages Kodiaq:

- Spacious salon (best in class for second row legroom).

- Flexible transformation system (seats fold into 16 configurations).

- European handling (more precise steering than Asian competitors).

- Large selection of engines (including diesel and hybrids).

Weaknesses:

- High maintenance costs (for example, replacement DSG costs ~200 000 ₽).

- Expensive options (air suspension + 180 000 ₽, panoramic roof + 120 000 ₽).

- Low ground clearance in basic versions (171 mm against 185 mm at Santa Fe).

Owner reviews: first impressions

According to the portal "Drom" and forums Škoda-Club.ru, owners of new Kodiaq note:

✅ Pros:

- “The design now looks premium, especially in color Crystal Face».

- “Multimedia works faster than Audi Q7 2022.”

- “The third row has finally become suitable for adults (height up to 180 cm)».

- “Fuel consumption 1.5 TSI - really 6.5 l/100 km along the highway."

❌ Cons:

- “The plastic on the doors creaks after 5,000 km».

- “The price is too high - for this money you can get BMW X3 used".

- «Travel Assist is switched off at every hummocky site.”

- “In winter 1.5 TSI it's dull at start - it's better to take it 2.0 TSI».

On the secondary market prices for Kodiaq 2026 until they fall - with mileage 10,000 km cars are sold at a minimal discount (5–7%). The most popular versions - Style 2.0 TSI and Sportline with black trim.

- Condition DSG (problems appear after 60,000 km).

- Operation of the air suspension (air leaks in cold weather).

- Firmware updates (Travel Assist requires software version no lower 3.5.1).

- Availability of all keys (replacement costs ~50 000 ₽).-->

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

🔹 When is the 2nd generation Škoda Kodiaq facelift expected?

According to preliminary data, updated Kodiaq will appear no earlier than 2026. Possible changes: updated multimedia system (based on Android Automotive), new body colors and possibly an all-electric version on the platform MEB (like Enyaq).

🔹 Which engine is the most reliable in the lineup?

According to statistics from service centers, the most trouble-free unit is diesel 2.0 TDI (150/200 hp). Gasoline 1.5/2.0 TSI require more frequent oil changes (every 10,000 km), and hybrids are sensitive to fuel quality (octane number is not lower than 98).

🔹 Is it possible to install a third row of seats as standard?

No, the third row is only available in versions Style, Sportline and L&K as an option (+80 000 ₽). At the same time, the third row seats in Kodiaq 2026 became wider by 50 mm and received separate climate control ducts.

🔹 What tires does the factory recommend for Russian conditions?

Škoda offers the following sizes:

- 235/60 R18 (basic option).

- 235/55 R19 (for Sportline).

- 255/45 R20 (for L&K with air suspension).


Models recommended for winter Continental IceContact 3 or Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 (approved by the manufacturer). Tire pressure: 2.3 bar front and 2.5 bar behind.

🔹 How much does it cost to service a 2nd generation Kodiaq?

Approximate prices for maintenance in official services (for 2026):

- scheduled maintenance #1 (15,000 km): ~25 000 ₽ (oil change, filters).

- scheduled maintenance #2 (30,000 km): ~40 000 ₽ (+ replacement of the air filter).

- scheduled maintenance #3 (60,000 km): ~70 000 ₽ (replacement of brake fluid, spark plugs).


Car warranty - 3 years no mileage limitation. Consumables (brake pads, windshield wiper blades) are not included in the warranty.