Skoda Kodiaq 2026: full review of the restyled model with prices and test drive

New Skoda Kodiaq 2026 is not just a facelift, but a deep modernization of the flagship crossover of the Czech brand. The model has received an updated appearance, an expanded range of engines, an improved multimedia system and a number of technological innovations that make it even more competitive in the large SUV segment. In Russia Kodiaq 2026 appeared taking into account local characteristics: adapted suspension and engines, expanded comfort options for cold climates.

What has changed compared to the previous version? Firstly, Kodiaq has become more visually aggressive thanks to a new radiator grille, Matrix LED optics and a redesigned bumper. Secondly, the manufacturer has added hybrid versions that were previously unavailable on the Russian market. Thirdly, the cabin is now equipped with a 13-inch touchscreen with support for over-the-air updates OVER-THE-AIR (OTA), and the driver assistance system Travel Assist received new functions. Let's take a closer look at all novelties - from technical characteristics to real driving impressions.

Design and exterior: what has changed in the Skoda Kodiaq 2026

Facelift Kodiaq 2026 touched on all the key elements of the exterior, but Czech designers retained the recognizable silhouette of the model. The main change is front part: The radiator grille has become wider and is now integrated with LED optics, forming a single light strip. The bumper has been redesigned to improve aerodynamics, and the air intakes have chrome inserts. The taillights are now full LED with dynamic turn indicators.

Key exterior updates:

• 🔹 New radiator grille with 3D structure and integrated logo ŠKODA (now without the inscription on the hood).
• 🔹 Matrix LED optics in top trim levels with automatic high/low beam switching.
• 🔹 19–21 inch wheels new designs (including option Aero for hybrid versions).
• 🔹 Exterior colors: shades added Energy Blue and Graphite Grey Metallic, but classic Race Blue became deeper.

Interesting fact: Kodiaq 2026 became 20 mm longer due to redesigned bumpers, but the wheelbase remained the same (2791 mm). This allowed for improved aerodynamics without sacrificing interior space. The designers also paid attention to detail: e.g. door handles now have backlighting in the dark, and there are rails on the roof for attaching luggage (optional).

Interior and ergonomics: comfort comes first

Salon Skoda Kodiaq 2026 has undergone major changes - now it looks more modern and technologically advanced. The main innovation is 13" touch display with support for gestures and voice control (system Laura). The instrument panels have also been updated: top versions have virtual cockpit with a diagonal of 10.25 inches and customizable widgets.

Finishing materials have become better quality: in complete sets Style and Sportline genuine leather is used Nappa, aluminum inserts and soft plastics with anti-reflective coating. Ergonomics remains at a high level - all controls are located intuitively, and armrest Now adjustable in length and height. Particular attention was paid to sound insulation: additional layers were added in the doors and wheel arches.

List of key interior improvements:

• 🪑 New seats with improved lateral support and massage function (optional for front seats).
• 🌡️ Three-zone climate control with air ionizer and filter HEPA.
• 🔌 Wireless charging for smartphones (up to 15 W) and two USB-C ports for rear passengers.
• 🎵 Canton audio system with 12 speakers and subwoofer (optional).

What does the Kodiaq 2026 trunk hide?

The trunk volume as standard is 270 liters (with seven seats) and 630 liters (with five seats). With the rear seats folded down, space increases to 2065 liters. In hybrid versions, the volume is reduced by 30 liters due to the placement of the battery under the floor.

Technical characteristics: engines, transmission, suspension

Skoda Kodiaq 2026 offers a wide range of engines, including gasoline, diesel and hybrid units. Three petrol engines and one diesel are officially available in Russia. All of them comply with environmental standards Euro 6d and adapted to work on AI-95 (gasoline) or DT-Euro (diesel).

Base engine - 1.5 TSI (150 hp) with system ACT (cylinder deactivation), which is combined with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG. For lovers of dynamics it is offered 2.0 TSI (190 or 245 hp) with all-wheel drive 4×4 and DSG-7. Diesel version 2.0 TDI (150 or 200 hp) equipped with a system AdBlue and is suitable for long trips due to its efficiency.

Hybrid versions (iV) are not yet officially supplied to Russia, but are expected by the end of 2026. They combine 1.4 TSI (150 hp) with an electric motor (115 hp), which gives a total power of 245 hp. and an electric range of up to 60 km.

Engine	Power (hp)	Gearbox	Drive	Acceleration 0–100 km/h (s)	Average consumption (l/100 km)
1.5 TSI	150	Manual transmission-6 / DSG-7	Front	9,2 / 8,7	6,5–7,0
2.0 TSI	190	DSG-7	4×4	7,9	7,5–8,0
2.0 TSI	245	DSG-7	4×4	6,6	8,5–9,0
2.0 TDI	200	DSG-7	4×4	8,2	5,5–6,0

⚠️ Attention: When choosing a version with DSG-7 Keep in mind that the gearbox requires regular maintenance (oil change every 60,000 km). In cold climates, it is recommended to warm up the transmission before heavy driving.

Safety systems and driver assistants

Skoda Kodiaq 2026 received the maximum score 5 stars in crash tests Euro NCAP thanks to updated security systems. Standard equipment includes 9 airbags, Crew Protect Assist (automatic closing of windows and tensioning of seat belts in case of an accident) and Multi-Collision Brake (preventing secondary collisions).

The list of options includes:

• 🚦 Travel Assist — semi-autonomous driving up to 210 km/h (lane keeping + adaptive cruise control).
• 🅿️ Park Assist with function Remote Parking (parking via smartphone).
• 👁️ 360° cameras with display projection and function Virtual Pedal (opening the trunk with your foot).
• 🚨 Emergency Assist — automatic stop if the driver loses consciousness.

Unique feature of Kodiaq 2026: system Predictive Cruise Control uses navigation data to automatically reduce speed before corners or steep inclines. This reduces the load on the brakes and improves comfort on long journeys.

Prices and configurations in Russia for 2026

Cost Skoda Kodiaq 2026 in Russia starts from 3,890,000 rubles for the basic version Active with engine 1.5 TSI and a manual transmission. Top equipment L&K with 2.0 TSI (245 hp) and all-wheel drive will cost 5,450,000 rubles. Prices may vary by dealer and region.

Comparison of complete sets:

Equipment	Engine	Price (from)	Key options
Active	1.5 TSI (150 hp)	3 890 000 ₽	17" wheels, fabric interior, 8.25" display, climate control
Ambition	1.5/2.0 TSI	4 250 000 ₽	18" wheels, leather steering wheel, Virtual Cockpit, rear camera
Style	2.0 TSI (190 hp)	4 780 000 ₽	19" wheels, leather Nappa, Matrix LED, Travel Assist
L&K	2.0 TSI (245 hp)	5 450 000 ₽	20" wheels, ventilated seats, Canton, Head-Up Display

⚠️ Attention: When ordering Kodiaq 2026 through official dealers ŠKODA there are special lending conditions (from 6.9% per annum) and a program Trade-In with a bonus of up to 150,000 rubles.

Test drive: impressions of control and comfort

Driving Skoda Kodiaq 2026 You can immediately feel that the manufacturer paid attention not only to the technical content, but also to handling. Even in the basic version with 1.5 TSI the crossover accelerates confidently and holds the road thanks to a redesigned suspension with adaptive shock absorbers DCC (optional). In mode Comfort the machine gently absorbs bumps, and Sport — becomes more responsive to steering inputs.

Particularly impressive 2.0 TSI (245 hp) with all-wheel drive Haldex. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 6.6 seconds, and the system 4×4 automatically distributes torque between axles. Off-road (within reason) Kodiaq shows itself better than many competitors thanks to its high ground clearance (194 mm) and mode Off-Road, which optimizes the performance of the transmission and electronics.

The disadvantages include:

• ⚠️ Diesel engine noise at high speeds (especially in cold weather).
• ⚠️ Suspension stiffness in mode Sport on broken roads.
• ⚠️ Option price: Many useful features (eg Matrix LED) are available only in top trim levels.

Comparison with competitors: which is better to choose?

In the segment of large crossovers, Skoda Kodiaq 2026 there are serious rivals: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander. Let's look at the key differences:

Model	Price (from)	Power (hp)	Dimensions (L×W×H)	Benefits	Disadvantages
Skoda Kodiaq	3 890 000 ₽	150–245	4699×1882×1676	Spacious interior, flexible equipment, adaptive suspension	High price of top versions, noisy diesel
VW Tiguan Allspace	4 050 000 ₽	150–245	4701×1839×1677	High-quality assembly, better sound insulation	Less legroom in the second row
Hyundai Santa Fe	3 990 000 ₽	150–240	4785×1900×1700	Long warranty (5 years), rich equipment	Less dynamic design, weak motors in the base

If you care spaciousness and practicality, Kodiaq - one of the best options. For lovers of premium finishes, it’s worth taking a closer look Tiguan Allspace, and for those who value reliability, it’s suitable Toyota Highlander (but it is more expensive).

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Real reviews about Skoda Kodiaq 2026 mostly positive, but there is also criticism. Here's what the owners say:

Pros:

• ✅ Spacious salon — even tall passengers are comfortable in the second row.
• ✅ Quality finish — no squeaks even after 10,000 km.
• ✅ Adaptive cruise control works well on the highway.
• ✅ Service cheaper than premium brands (eg. Audi Q7).

Cons:

• ❌ Fuel consumption in the city higher than stated (especially in 2.0 TSI).
• ❌ Spare parts price for some elements (for example, Matrix LED- headlights).
• ❌ Multimedia Sometimes it slows down when using navigation and music at the same time.

Many note that Kodiaq justifies its price due to its balance of comfort, safety and handling. However, some owners recommend taking the car in the maximum configuration, since many options (for example, 360° cameras) greatly affect ease of use.

Make sure the package includes Virtual Cockpit (makes data easier to read)

Check your work Travel Assist on a test drive (should smoothly hold lane)

Pay attention to sound insulation (in basic versions it is weaker)

Compare prices from several dealers (the difference can reach 100,000 rubles)-->

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

❓ How much does it cost to service a Skoda Kodiaq 2026 per year?

Average maintenance cost for Kodiaq 2026 amounts to 25,000–35,000 rubles per year (depending on mileage and engine type). The first maintenance is carried out after 15,000 km or 1 year, subsequent ones - every 15,000 km. Diesel versions require more frequent oil and filter changes (AdBlue refilled separately).

❓ Which engine is better to choose for the city?

Optimal for urban use 1.5 TSI (150 hp) — it is economical (consumption ~7 l/100 km) and quite dynamic. If you need more power, consider 2.0 TSI (190 hp), but keep in mind that fuel consumption will increase to 9–10 l/100 km in traffic jams.

❓ Does the 2026 Kodiaq have full-time all-wheel drive?

Yes, versions with 2.0 TSI (190/245 hp) and 2.0 TDI are equipped with a system 4×4 coupling based Haldex 5th generation. It automatically engages the rear axle when slipping, but is not permanent all-wheel drive. For serious off-road use, it is better to consider Toyota Highlander or Kia Sorento with differential lock.

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

The third row is available on all trim levels Kodiaq 2026, but in the basic version Active it goes without heating or adjustments. To comfortably accommodate adult passengers in the third row, it is better to choose a version with an extended wheelbase (for example, Kodiaq RS, but it is not officially in Russia).

❓ What accessories are worth purchasing for the Kodiaq 2026?

Useful accessories:

• 🔌 Luggage organizer (to secure the load).
• 🛡️ Crankcase protection (relevant for gravel trips).
• 🎵 Wireless headphones for rear passengers (connected to multimedia).
• ☀️ Tint film (factory tint is weak).