What's the news?
Skoda is gearing up for the launch of the Kodiaq SUV, which is due to go on sale at the start of 2017. This is the company's first model in the seven-seat market segment and the focus is on brand values such as space, practicality and technology.
Exterior
With the official photos depicting the car in a disguised state there isn't much to say about the Kodiaq's appearance as yet. We know it is 4.7 metres long and Skoda's CEO describes the car: "...with its emotive design, the Skoda Kodiaq is a strong presence on the road."
Interior
The Kodiaq will be available in five- and seven-seat versions. The former will have a 2,065-litre luggage capacity, which Skoda describes as the best in class.
Infotainment comes from the Volkswagen Group's second generation Modular Infotainment Matrix. A Wi-Fi hotspot comes as standard on the top-of-the-range Columbus and Amundsen systems, while an LTE module is available as an optional extra for the Columbus system, which establishes an internet connection using the fastest mobile internet standard currently available. Skoda's mobile online services are compatible with LTE and are used to deliver information and navigation, plus emergency and breakdown assistance.
The latest driver aids are also available, including Area View, which displays the car's immediate surroundings on the touch screen monitor. There is a pedestrian protection function and Parking Distance Control that brakes automatically when an obstacle is detected, too.
Mechanicals
At launch there will be five engines - two diesel and three petrol. For now, we know that the most powerful petrol burner will be the 2.0-litre TSI engine with 180hp. The range will include six-speed manual transmission and DSG automatic options as well as front- or four-wheel drive. Volkswagen Group's Driving Mode Select and Dynamic Chassis Control will be available, allowing the driver to adjust various aspects of the power delivery, steering and suspension to the terrain and weather conditions.
Anything else?
There are plenty of touches that owners should appreciate in day-to-day use, such as door-edge protection that deploys automatically to avoid car park damage. A sleep comfort package is available with special head rests too, which should allow passengers to rest on long trips.