Skoda Kodiaq 2017: everything you need to know before buying

First Skoda Kodiaq rolled off the assembly line in 2016, but it was 2017 that became the debut year for the Russian market. This crossover immediately gained popularity due to the combination of a spacious interior and a reliable platform MQB and affordable prices compared to German analogues. Today, years later, 2017 Kodiaq remains in demand on the secondary market - especially among families who want a practical car with a third row of seats.

However, buying a used one Kodiaq requires care. The 2017 models had both successful technical solutions and typical “childhood illnesses” that are worth knowing about in advance. In this article we will analyze key features car, compare configurations, analyze reliability and give advice on choosing a used vehicle. We’ll also answer the question: is it worth taking today? Skoda Kodiaq first generation or is it better to take a closer look at the 2021 facelift?

Technical specifications Skoda Kodiaq 2017

Base for Kodiaq served as a modular platform Volkswagen Group MQB, which also underlies Volkswagen Tiguan and Audi Q5. This guaranteed the car predictable handling, good noise insulation and a wide selection of engines. In 2017, customers were offered three gasoline and two diesel engines:

• 🔥 1.4 TSI (150 hp) - the most economical, but rather weak for a heavy crossover;
• ⚡ 2.0 TSI (180 and 220 hp) - the optimal choice for most;
• 💨 2.0 TDI (150 and 190 hp) - diesel engines with excellent traction, but sensitive to fuel;

All engines were aggregated with 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed DSG robot. The latter, by the way, has become the subject of controversy: the owners note jerks when switching at low speeds, especially in traffic jams. As for the suspension, here Skoda I used the classic scheme: MacPherson front and multi-link rear — reliable, but not without nuances.

The dimensions of the car are impressive: length 4697 mm with wheelbase 2791 mm - this is more than Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, but less than full-size crossovers like Hyundai Santa Fe. Clearance in 194 mm allows you not to be afraid of bad roads, and departure/entry angles 19°/22° do Kodiaq quite passable for a city SUV.

Options and equipment

In 2017 Skoda Kodiaq in Russia it was offered in three main trim levels: Active, Ambition and Style. The difference between them was not only in the level of comfort, but also in the available options. For example, even basic Active had:

• 🔑 Remote key and engine start button;
• 📱 Swing multimedia system with 6.5-inch screen;
• 🚗 Heated front seats and steering wheel (optional).

But the top one Style already made me happy 9.2-inch Columbus display with navigation, virtual dashboard (optional), adaptive cruise control and parking assistance system. Interestingly, even in the maximum configuration Skoda made it possible to save money compared to Audi Q5 or Volkswagen Touareg, offering similar technologies.

What is Virtual Cockpit in Kodiaq?

It is a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel that replaces traditional needles. The driver can choose between the classic view (speedometer + tachometer) and modes with navigation or full-screen multimedia. The option was only available in the Style trim level with 2.0 TSI (220 hp) or 2.0 TDI (190 hp) engines.

Deserves special attention system Skoda Connect — it made it possible to remotely check the status of the car through a mobile application, and in the event of an accident, automatically sent data to the emergency service. True, its operation required a SIM card with a tariff, which not all owners took into account when purchasing.

Pros and cons of Skoda Kodiaq 2017

Like any car, Kodiaq The first generation has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with benefits, which make it attractive even today:

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Spacious salon with a third row of seats (though it’s cramped for adults);
• 🛣️ Good handling for a large crossover;
• 🔧 Robust MQB platform with proven engines;
• 💰 Reasonable price on the secondary market (from 1.8 million rubles for used copies).

Now about shortcomingswhich owners often mention:

• ⚠️ Electronics problems: multimedia glitches, spontaneous shutdown of parking sensors;
• 🛢️ Sensitivity of diesel engines to fuel — when refueling at questionable gas stations, problems with the fuel system may occur;
• 🔋 Weak battery in basic configurations (especially in winter);
• 🚗 Noisy suspension on uneven surfaces (typical for cars with mileage >100 thousand km).

One more nuance - fuel consumption. For example, 2.0 TSI (180 hp) in the city “eats” about 12-14 l/100 km, which is quite a lot for a modern crossover. Diesels are more economical (6-8 l/100 km), but their repair is more expensive.

Typical problems and how to avoid them

As practice shows, most problems Skoda Kodiaq 2017 associated with irregular maintenance or operation in difficult conditions. Here's what you should pay attention to during your inspection:

1. DSG-7: Check for smooth shifting, especially when cold. Jerks or delays are a signal for diagnosis;
2. Turbine (on 2.0 TSI/TDI engines): listen for a whistle or noise when accelerating;
3. Suspension: knocks in the front end are often associated with worn stabilizer links;
4. Electronics: Test all sensors, rear view camera and system Skoda Connect.

Special attention - cooling system. On engines 2.0 TSI Sometimes antifreeze leaks through the thermostat gasket. If the fluid level drops for no apparent reason, this is a cause for concern. It would also be a good idea to check timing chains - on engines 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI they serve for about 120-150 thousand km, after which they require replacement.

Use a diagnostic scanner to read ECU errors|Check the oil level in the DSG (if any)|Inspect the timing chain for tension|Test all electrical systems (especially parking sensors)|Make sure the all-wheel drive is working (if any)-->

⚠️ Attention! If the car's history contains a record of replacing the turbine or gearbox before 100 thousand km, this is a reason to be wary. Perhaps the car was operated in an aggressive mode or in violation of maintenance regulations.

Comparison with competitors

In 2017 Skoda Kodiaq there were several direct competitors: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Peugeot 5008. Let's compare them based on key parameters:

Parameter	Skoda Kodiaq	VW Tiguan Allspace	Hyundai Santa Fe	Kia Sorento
Length, mm	4697	4701	4770	4780
Trunk volume (5 seats), l	630	615	571	605
Minimum price (2026), rub.	1 800 000	2 100 000	2 000 000	2 200 000
Warranty for new (in 2017), years	3	3	5	7

As can be seen from the table, Kodiaq wins by price/space ratio, but loses to the Koreans in warranty obligations. But the Czech crossover offers more European handling and rich equipment in top versions. If the priority is reliability, then Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento may be preferable.

Owner reviews: what real users say

Reviews on forums and social networks about Skoda Kodiaq 2017 They are divided approximately equally: some praise them for their comfort and practicality, while others criticize them for the high cost of maintenance. Here are some typical opinions:

• ✅ «For 3 years and 80 thousand km - not a single serious breakdown. Only consumables and oils. The car is very convenient for a family with two children”;
• ❌ «DSG started to twitch after 60 thousand km. The dealer said that the mechatronics need to be changed - the issue price is 200 thousand rubles”;
• ✅ «Diesel 2.0 TDI (190 hp) is just a beast! Pulls from the bottom, consumption on the highway is 5.5 l/100 km";
• ❌ «The suspension began to knock at 70 thousand km. I had to change the stabilizer struts and silent blocks.”

Many owners note that build quality at Kodiaq noticeably higher than more budget models Skoda (for example, Rapid or Octavia). However spare parts and service are more expensive than the Koreans. For example, replacing the timing chain with 2.0 TSI can pull on 50-70 thousand rubles. with work.

⚠️ Attention! If you are planning to buy Kodiaq with mileage >100 thousand km, budget for about 100-150 thousand rubles. to replace worn suspension and transmission parts. This is a typical amount for getting your car in order.

Should you buy the Skoda Kodiaq 2017 today?

The answer depends on your priorities. If you need spacious family crossover with good handling and European design, then Kodiaq 2017 - an excellent option. Especially if you find an instance with:

• 🔧 Full service history (preferably from an official dealer);
• 🚗 Engine 2.0 TSI (180 hp) or 2.0 TDI (150 hp) - they are considered the most reliable;
• 📄 Guarantee (some dealers extend it when buying used).

If it's important to you minimum cost of ownership, then it’s better to take a closer look at Korean crossovers or wait Kodiaq restyled version (2021), where many “childhood diseases” are eliminated. It is also worth considering that spare parts for Skoda not always cheaper than for Volkswagen or Audi, - despite the more affordable starting price of the car.

And lastly: if you plan to drive mainly around the city, pay attention to all-wheel drive package. System 4×4 Haldex in Kodiaq it is reliable, but its maintenance (changing the oil in the gearbox, checking the clutch) adds costs.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Skoda Kodiaq 2017

❓ Which Kodiaq 2017 engine is the most reliable?

According to service center statistics, 2.0 TSI (180 hp) and 2.0 TDI (150 hp) are considered the most trouble-free. 1.4 TSI rather weak for a heavy crossover, but 2.0 TSI (220 hp) and 2.0 TDI (190 hp) require more careful maintenance.

❓ How much does it cost to service a Kodiaq per year?

On average, routine maintenance (oils, filters, diagnostics) costs 20-30 thousand rubles. per year. If you add possible malfunctions (for example, replacing struts or timing chains), the budget can rise to 50-80 thousand rubles..

❓ Is it possible to install a third row of seats in the Kodiaq 2017?

Yes, third row was available even in basic trim levels, but it is optional. If it is not there, it will be difficult to install later - you will need to order mounts and change the registration data.

❓ Which gearbox is more reliable: DSG or manual?

6-speed manual easier and cheaper to repair, but DSG more comfortable in the city. The main thing is to follow regularly changing the oil in the robot (every 60 thousand km).

❓ Where is it better to buy Kodiaq 2017: from a dealer or second-hand?

If your budget allows, it is better to take from official dealer with warranty. When buying second hand, be sure to do full diagnostics and check the history via Autocode or CarVertical.