Škoda Kodiaq 2026: what has changed in the new generation of large crossover

New Škoda Kodiaq 2026 was one of the most anticipated debuts in the Russian market. Czech brand, part of the concern Volkswagen GroupThe company has introduced a deeply modernized version of its flagship crossover, which now offers not only an updated design, but also a redesigned technical stuffing. This car is positioned as an ideal solution for families with an active lifestyle, combining a spacious interior, modern technologies and proven reliability.

Second generation. Kodiaq The manufacturer responds to the growing demands of customers: here and hybrid powertrains, and advanced security options, and a fully digital dashboard. Particular attention is paid to comfort - engineers have reworked the suspension, improved noise insulation and proposed new options for trim. But the main change touched the platform: now the crossover is built on a modular architecture. MQB EvoThis opens up possibilities for future electrified versions.

In this article, we will analyze all the key novelties of the model, compare it with the main competitors (such as: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Hyundai Santa Fe) and also consider whether the price increase is justified. If you are planning to buy a large crossover in 2026 – this material will help you make an informed choice.

Design: evolution or revolution?

Updated Škoda Kodiaq It retained the recognizable features of its predecessor, but received a more modern and aggressive appearance. The front part is now allocated with narrow LED headlights with matrix light (option), a massive grille with chrome inserts and a relief hood. The back has become visually wider due to horizontal lines and new LED lights connected by a light band.

The dimensions of the crossover have not changed (length - 4760 mm, wheelbase - 2791 mm), but due to the new optimization of the body managed to improve aerodynamics: coefficient Cx It went down from 0.33 to 0.31. This has a positive effect on fuel efficiency and noise level in the cabin. Among other external novelties:

• 🔹 New 19- and 20-inch wheels with original design (optional - 21-inch for top versions).
• 🔹 Active hood Protecting pedestrians (rises when they are in collision).
• 🔹 Electric trunk with contactless opening function (gesture) "foot under the bumper").
• 🔹 Expanded color palette, including exclusive shade "Energy Blue".

The interior space has also undergone changes: now the interior is designed in a minimalist style with an emphasis on digital solutions. The center console is occupied by a touchscreen display with a diagonal of up to 13 inches (depending on the configuration), and traditional physical buttons are minimized. Finishing materials have become more premium - soft plastics, aluminum inserts and natural leather are used (in versions). Style and Sportline).

Technical characteristics: engines and transmissions

One of the key advantages of the new Kodiaq - an expanded line of power units, including hybrid versions. The following engines are officially presented in Russia:

Engine model	Type	Power, hp	Torque, Nm	Transmission	Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s
1.5 TSI	Gasoline, turbo	150	250	6-st. Manual transmission / 7 speed DSG	9,8 / 9,2
2.0 TSI	Gasoline, turbo	190 / 265*	320 / 400*	7-st. DSG	7,9 / 6,5*
2.0 TDI	Diesel, turbo	150 / 200*	360 / 400*	7-st. DSG	9,5 / 8,2*
1.4 TSI + electric motor	Rechargeable hybrid (PHEV)	245	400	6-st. DSG	7,3

* - data for versions with all-wheel drive 4×4 (Haldex 5th generation).

Important for Russian buyers: diesel versions 2.0 TDI Officially not supplied to Russia due to the tightened environmental regulations, but they can be ordered through parallel imports. Gasoline engines are a priority, especially 2.0 TSI 265 hpIt offers dynamics at the level of sports crossovers. The hybrid version (PHEV) with an electric power reserve of up to 60 km will become relevant for cities with limited ICE.

All engines meet the standard Euro 6d and equipped with a system Start-Stop with regenerative braking. Suspension - independent McPherson front and rear multi-link, with optional adaptive system DCC Dynamic Chassis Control, which automatically adjusts to the road conditions.

Options and prices in Russia for 2026

New in Russia Škoda Kodiaq Available in five trim levels: Active, Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K (Laurin & Klement). Basic version Active starts from 4 190,000 rubles (engine-powered) 1.5 TSI and the ICS), while the top L&K with 2.0 TSI 265 hp and all-wheel drive will cost 6,850,000 rubles.

The difference in equipment between the trim levels is significant. For example, in Style And above, they appear:

• 📱 Digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit (12.3 inches).
• 🎵 Canton audio system with 10 speakers (in L&K - 12 speakers).
• 🚗 Adaptive cruise control Travel Assist with semi-autonomous driving function.
• 🔋 Wireless charging for smartphones and projection Head-Up Display.

For clarity, compare the key options in the table:

Option	Active	Ambition	Style	Sportline/L&K
Climate control	Manual, 2-zone	Automatic, 2-zone	Automatic, 3-zone	Automatic, 3-zone + ionizer
Multimedia	8" screen, Apple CarPlay	10" screen, wireless CarPlay	13" screen, navigation	13" screen, voice assistant Laura
Seats	Fabric	Fabric/leather	Leather Alcantara	Natural skin, ventilation
Security	6 airbag, ESP	+ Rear view camera	+ System Front Assist	+ Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert

It is worth noting that prices for Kodiaq This is an average of 12-15% compared to the previous generation. This is due not only to inflation, but also to the increase in equipment: now even in the basic version there is LED optics, a system. Lane Assist and heated front seats.

What's included in the package Winter Pack (Option for 80,000 rubles)

:

The package includes:

• Heated steering wheel and rear seats.
• Heated windshield and washing nozzles.
• Additional heater cabin (for quick warming up).
• Curtains on the back windows with electric drive.

The option is relevant for regions with cold climates and is recommended for order when buying in the northern regions.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

In the segment of large crossovers, Škoda Kodiaq There are some serious rivals. Let’s look at the differences from the main competitors:

• 🔄 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace: built on the same platform MQBIt offers less legroom on the second row (40mm already). But Tiguan cheaper by 200-300 thousand. Rubles in similar configurations.
• 🔄 Hyundai Santa Fe: Korean wins on guarantee (5 years vs 3 years in the Škoda) and equipment in the base, but loses in dynamics and handling. Hybrid version Santa Fe It's also more expensive.
• 🔄 Kia Sorento: more reliable transmission (8th st). Automatic vs 7th. DSG, but salon Kodiaq More practical due to the modular seat system VarioFlex (optional).
• 🔄 Toyota HighlanderThe leader in reliability, but much more expensive (from 5.5 million rubles) and less dynamic. Hybrid Highlander more economical, but its power reserve on electricity is only 2 km vs 60 km Kodiaq PHEV.

Main advantages Kodiaq:

1. Maximum cabin flexibility (7 seats, folding third row, trunk volume up to 2065 liters).
2. More sporty suspension setting compared to Asian competitors.
3. Wide choice of engines, including hybrid.
4. European quality of assembly (production - Czech Republic, Slovakia).

Weaknesses:

• High maintenance costs (especially for versions with DSG).
• Lower clearance (194 mm) compared to Sorento (208 mm).
• Limited availability of diesel versions in Russia.

Test drive: driving impressions

Driving a new one Kodiaq Immediately striking is the improved sound insulation - at a speed of 120 km / h in the cabin is quieter than its predecessor, by 3-4 dB. Steering has become more informative, and the turning radius has decreased from 11.4 to 11.1 m, which makes maneuvering in the city easier. Motor. 2.0 TSI 190 hp paired with DSG provides a smooth acceleration, but with a sharp acceleration, the box is sometimes "thought" for 0.5-1 seconds.

In mode Sport The suspension is noticeably stiffer, but even in comfortable mode. Normal The crossover keeps the road well on the corners. All-wheel drive system 4×4 with coupling Haldex effectively distributes torque, but for serious off-road it is better to choose Kodiaq Scout (with increased clearance and crankcase protection).

The hybrid version was especially pleased with the work: the transition between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine is almost invisible, and the power reserve on green energy is really 50-55 km (at a temperature above +10 ° C). Charging from a household outlet takes 6-7 hours, from Wallbox - about 3 hours.

⚠️ Attention: When using the hybrid version in frosts (-15 ° C and below), the power reserve is reduced to 20-25 km due to the need to heat the cabin.

Practicality and salon: 7 seats or 5?

One of the main trump cards Kodiaq It's a modular seat system. VarioFlex. In the standard configuration, the crossover offers 5 seats, but for an additional fee (about 100,000 rubles), you can order a third row. However, it should be borne in mind that the third row will be enough only for children or passengers up to 170 cm tall - the legs rest on the backs of the second row.

The trunk volume varies:

• 📦 5 seats: 630 liters (up to 1880 liters with the seats folded).
• 📦 7 seats: 270 liters (up to 2065 liters with all rows folded).

Among the useful little things:

• 🧳 Boxes under the trunk floor for storing small items.
• 🍎 Bottle holders door (contains 1.5-liter bottles).
• 🔌 230V socket to connect a laptop or an electric pump.
• 🪑 Length-adjustable cushion front passenger seat.

For families with children, options are useful:

• 👶 ISOFIX child seats in the second row (2 seats) and in the front passenger seat.
• 🚪 Protecting doors from impact (rubber pads).
• 🎮 Multimedia screens for rear passengers (optional for 60,000 rubles).

⚠️ Attention: When ordering the third row of seats, check the availability of the option Easy Entry It allows you to fold the second row with one hand to access the back seats.

Service and reliability: what to expect?

Based on independent tests (including ADAC and Auto Express) new Kodiaq It is very reliable, but there are nuances:

• ⚙️ Engines 1.5 TSI and 2.0 TSI considered one of the most reliable in the line VW GroupThey require high-quality fuel (not lower than AI-95).
• ⚙️ Box DSG-7 sensitive to overheating - when towing a trailer weighing more than 1.5 tons, it is recommended to install an additional radiator.
• ⚙️ Electronics (especially driver assistance systems) can fail in severe frosts (below -25°C).

Maintenance schedule (for petrol versions):

• 🔧 Every 15,000 kmReplacement of oil and filters (cost – from 8 000 rubles).
• 🔧 Every 30,000 km: Replacement of cabin air filter and brake fluid.
• 🔧 Every 60,000 km: replacement of the HRM belt (for 1.5 TSI - chain, resource 120,000 km.

Cost of ownership for 5 years (according to calculations) Behind the Wheel):

Expense item	Amount (rubles)
Fuel (15 000 km/year, 95 petrol)	~550 000
Insurance (CASCO + OSAGO)	~450 000
Maintenance and consumables	~220 000
Tires (2 sets)	~180 000
Total for 5 years	~1 400 000

For comparison: Toyota Highlander It costs 20-25% less due to the lower cost of spare parts and less often required maintenance (every 20,000 km).

Check the level of antifreeze |Replace wiper brushes |Treat rubber seals with silicone lubricant |Test the heating of the seats and steering wheel |Install winter tires (recommended size: 235/55 R19)->

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

When will the new Kodiaq be sold in Russia?

Official sales started in March 2026. The first batches of cars are already available in dealerships, but due to the high demand for some configurations (especially for the car). Style and L&K) a queue of up to 2-3 months may be in place.

Is it possible to install gas equipment on Kodiaq?

Installation of HBO is possible, but not recommended for engines with direct injection (TSI). This is due to the risk of overheating of the valves and loss of warranty. For Kodiaq It is better to choose the version with 1.5 TSI and the installation of the 4th generation HBO (for example, Lovato or BRC), but only from certified installers.

What is the maximum speed of the hybrid version?

Hybrid Kodiaq 1.4 TSI PHEV has an electronic speed limit at the level of 200 km/h. On one electricity, the maximum speed is 130 km / h (when the battery is discharged, the car automatically switches to a gasoline engine).

Are there discounts for corporate clients?

Yes, Škoda It offers special conditions for legal entities:

• Discount up to 7% of the recommended retail price.
• Free maintenance for the first year of operation.
• Simplified procedure for registration of leasing (rate from 8% per annum).

To receive an offer, you must contact the corporate department of the dealer with a package of documents (TIN, extract from the USRUL).

Which engine is better to choose for driving on the road?

For frequent long-distance travel, it is optimal. 2.0 TSI 190 hp with DSG. It combines dynamics (acceleration to 100 km / h in 7.9 seconds) and efficiency (consumption on the track – 6.5 l / 100 km). If the budget allows, consider the version. 2.0 TSI 265 hp It is even more responsive on overtaking, but fuel consumption is higher (7.2 l / 100 km).