Skoda Kodiaq New 2026: full review of the updated crossover

New Skoda Kodiaq The 2026 model year is not just a facelift, but a complete rethinking of one of the most popular crossovers in Russia. Czech brand, part of the group Volkswagen Group, presented a car with a radically updated design, an expanded range of engines and advanced technologies. If you're looking for a spacious family SUV with premium finishes and reliable mechanicals, Kodiaq New definitely deserves attention.

In this article we will analyze all the key changes: from the exterior and interior to technical innovations and pricing policy. We will pay special attention hybrid versions, which first appeared in the line, and also compare Kodiaq with main competitors - Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe. If you are planning a purchase, here you will find answers to questions about the configurations, real fuel consumption and the nuances of operation in Russian conditions.

Design: what has changed in appearance and interior

Updated Skoda Kodiaq received a completely redesigned front end with a signature radiator grille Crystal Face, which is now equipped with a backlight of 131 LEDs. The headlights have become thinner and received technology Matrix LED in top versions. The rear has also undergone changes: the LED strip now runs across the entire width of the trunk, and the bumper has acquired more aggressive lines.

In the interior, key changes affected the multimedia system - now it is a 13-inch touch screen Virtual Cockpit with support for gestures and voice control. Finishing materials have become more premium: top trim levels use genuine leather Nappa and aluminum inserts. Particularly pleasing is the increased legroom in the second row - now even tall passengers will be comfortable.

• 🔹 Exterior: new grille with LED lighting, redesigned bumpers, LED headlights Matrix LED.
• 🔹 Interior: 13-inch screen, premium materials, increased legroom.
• 🔹 Body colors: new shades have appeared - Energy Blue and Magic Black with pearlescent effect.

⚠️ Attention: Standard Ambition There is no LED illumination of the radiator grille - it can only be ordered in versions Style and Sportline.

Technical characteristics: engines, transmissions, suspension

Engine range Skoda Kodiaq New has become wider due to the emergence hybrid versions. Now available to customers:

• 🔋 1.5 TSI (150 hp) - petrol turbo engine with ACT (cylinder shutdown).
• 🔋 2.0 TSI (190 and 265 hp) - top variant with all-wheel drive 4×4 and robotic-DSG.
• ⚡ 1.4 TSI e-TEC (245 hp) — a hybrid with an electric motor and an electric range of up to 60 km.
• ⚡ 2.0 TDI (150 and 200 hp) — diesel versions for lovers of efficiency.

All engines comply with environmental standards Euro 6d. The suspension remains fully independent, but engineers have reworked the shock absorber settings for better handling. All-wheel drive versions use a clutch Haldex fifth generation, which distributes torque between axles in real time.

Engine	Power (hp)	Acceleration 0–100 km/h (s)	Fuel consumption (l/100 km)	Drive
1.5 TSI	150	9.2	6.1–6.5	Front
2.0 TSI (190 hp)	190	7.9	7.2–7.6	Full (4×4)
1.4 TSI e-TEC (hybrid)	245	7.6	1.5–2.0 (electric mode)	Front
2.0 TDI (200 hp)	200	8.1	5.3–5.7	Full (4×4)

⚠️ Attention: Hybrid version 1.4 TSI e-TEC requires regular recharging - with a discharged battery, fuel consumption can exceed 10 l/100 km in the urban cycle.

Options and prices: what the official dealer offers in 2026

In Russia Skoda Kodiaq New available in four trim levels: Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K (premium version). Prices start from 3,890,000 rubles for the basic version with engine 1.5 TSI and front-wheel drive. Top hybrid version 1.4 TSI e-TEC included L&K will cost 5,450,000 rubles.

What's included in the basic package Ambition:

• 🔘 8-inch multimedia screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• 🔘 Dual-zone climate control.
• 🔘 Rear Parking Assist (Park Assist).
• 🔘 17-inch alloy wheels.

Version L&K adds:

• 💎 Leather seats Nappa with heating, ventilation and massage.
• 💎 Electric panoramic roof.
• 💎 Adaptive cruise control Travel Assist with semi-autonomous driving function.
• 💎 Keyless entry and push-button engine start.

Test drive: impressions of control and comfort

Driving Skoda Kodiaq New You can immediately feel the improved sound insulation - even at a speed of 120 km/h, the cabin is quiet, as in a car of a higher class. Engine 2.0 TSI (190 hp) provides confident acceleration, and the gearbox DSG-7 shifts gears smoothly, without jerking. The performance of all-wheel drive is especially pleasantly surprising: on slippery roads the system 4×4 connects instantly, without slipping.

The suspension is tuned for comfort while still maintaining controllability. When cornering, roll is minimal, and the steering has become more informative compared to the previous version. Hybrid version e-TEC behaves predictably: the transition from electric to gasoline occurs seamlessly, and the range on the battery (about 60 km) is quite sufficient for city trips.

How does the Kodiaq perform off-road?

Despite the ground clearance of 194 mm, this crossover is not intended for serious off-road use. However, the system Off-Road Mode (available in all-wheel drive versions) helps overcome snow drifts and dirt roads. The main thing is to remember to turn it off on the asphalt so as not to overheat the clutch Haldex.

An important nuance: in the hybrid version, at temperatures below -10°C, the electric motor automatically turns off and the car switches to gasoline engine mode. This is designed to protect the battery, but may unexpectedly increase fuel consumption.

Comparison with competitors: Kodiaq vs Tiguan Allspace vs Santa Fe

Main competitors Skoda Kodiaq New - this is Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe. All three models offer seven seats, but there are key differences:

Parameter	Skoda Kodiaq	VW Tiguan Allspace	Hyundai Santa Fe
Price (base)	from 3,890,000 rubles	from 4,150,000 rubles	from 4,050,000 rubles
Trunk volume (7 seats)	270 l	230 l	227 l
Max. power (gasoline)	265 hp	245 hp	281 hp
Hybrid version	Yes (1.4 TSI e-TEC)	Yes (1.4 TSI eHybrid)	Yes (1.6 T-GDi Hybrid)
Warranty	5 years / 150,000 km	3 years / 100,000 km	5 years / 150,000 km

Kodiaq wins against Tiguan Allspace on price and warranty, and also offers a more spacious interior. Santa Fe more powerful, but inferior in equipment - Skoda even the basic version has dual-zone climate control, which the Korean does not have in the initial trim levels.

Owner reviews: pros and cons after a year of operation

According to reviews from Russian owners, Skoda Kodiaq New deserves high marks for reliability and comfort. Among the main advantages:

• ✅ Spacious interior and comfortable seats (even in the third row).
• ✅ High-quality assembly and premium finishing materials.
• ✅ Good sound insulation and smooth ride.
• ✅ Reliable engines (especially 2.0 TSI and 2.0 TDI).

However, there are also disadvantages:

• ❌ High cost of maintenance (especially the hybrid version).
• ❌ Rigid suspension in version Sportline (not everyone likes it).
• ❌ Expensive original spare parts (for example, headlight Matrix LED costs about 150,000 rubles).

Many note that the actual fuel consumption per 1.5 TSI in the city is about 8.5–9 l/100 km (against the declared 6.1 l). This is due to Russian fuel and driving style. Hybrid version in the city shows 4.5–5 l/100 km, but only with regular charging.

⚠️ Attention: Owners of hybrid versions complain about rapid wear of brake pads due to regenerative braking. It is recommended to check their condition every 20,000 km.

Selection tips: which package and engine to choose

The choice of configuration depends on your priorities:

• 💰 Budget up to 4,000,000 rubles: Ambition with 1.5 TSI - the best option for the city.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family with children: Style with 2.0 TSI and all-wheel drive - the best balance of price and equipment.
• ⚡ Economical: hybrid 1.4 TSI e-TEC included L&K, if you are willing to pay for the service.
• 🏔️ Off-road driving: Sportline with 2.0 TDI and all-wheel drive - better cross-country ability.

If you often drive on the highway, pay attention to 2.0 TDI — it is 20–30% more economical than gasoline versions. Better suited for the city 1.5 TSI or hybrid. Please note that all-wheel drive versions 4×4 require more frequent clutch oil changes Haldex (every 60,000 km).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Skoda Kodiaq New

❓ How much does a Kodiaq New cost to service for the first year?

The cost of scheduled maintenance #1 (15,000 km) for gasoline versions is approx. 25 000 ₽, for a hybrid - 35 000 ₽ (due to checking the high voltage system). Diesel versions are cheaper - approx. 20 000 ₽.

❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Kodiaq?

Officially Skoda does not recommend HBO for turbocharged engines (1.5 TSI and 2.0 TSI), as this may void your warranty. For 2.0 TDI There are certified solutions, but their installation will cost 120 000–150 000 ₽.

❓ What is the real ground clearance of the Kodiaq New?

Claimed ground clearance - 194 mm, but taking into account engine protection and a full tank, the actual ground clearance is about 170–175 mm. This is enough for urban conditions, but for serious off-road conditions it is better to choose Dacia Duster or Toyota RAV4.

❓ What tires does the factory recommend for winter use?

Skoda recommends winter tire size 235/55 R18 or 235/50 R19 with speed index H (up to 210 km/h). Popular models among owners: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3, Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 and Continental WinterContact TS 870.

❓ When is the next Kodiaq facelift expected?

According to information from dealers, the next facelift is planned no earlier than 2026. Until then, changes will be minimal (for example, new body colors or minor software updates).