Skoda has just updated the big Kodiaq SUV (you can find more of the fine-grain detail, and driving impressions, right HERE) and now it's arriving in Ireland, with a starting price of €38,150.
Minor visual differences
If you're looking for differences, they're pretty slim on the outside - new headlights and grille, and some other minor styling tweaks. On the mechanical front, there are some engine upgrades, including the updated 2.0-litre TDI diesel engines - in 150hp form with a standard-fit automatic gearbox or 200hp with standard-fit four-wheel drive and the same DSG automatic gearbox. Both engines now feature the latest generation 'twin-dosing' AdBlue injection system, which reduces their emissions of harmful NOX.
If you fancy a petrol Kodiaq, there's only one option for Irish buyers - the 150hp 1.5-litre TSI unit, offered in front-wheel drive form only, but at least you can choose between a manual or an auto 'box. There is another petrol Kodiaq - the mighty 245hp Kodiaq RS - but that's not going to be offered in Ireland. Darn it.
Extra safety options
Inside, there are some small updates, including the availability - as an option - of ventilated leather seats, along with some new safety equipment that includes extra radar sensors at the front, 'predictive' cruise control, lane-keeping steering, and traffic sign recognition.
All Kodiaq models now come with seven seats as standard, but there are still only two ISOFIX points as standard on all models - in the outer two middle row seats. Ambition models and above get an extra ISOFIX point in the front passenger seat.
Standard equipment on the base Active model includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, a USB-C connection, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That model also comes with keyless ignition, 17-inch alloys, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, LED lights all-round, cruise control, and two-zone climate control.
Ambition models get 18-inch alloys, three-zone climate, active radar-guided cruise control, privacy glass, an eight-inch touchscreen with voice control, automatic lights, wipers, and dimming rear view mirror, and some aluminium-effect interior trim.
Top spec Sportline
Style models get 19-inch alloys, Matrix LED headlights, keyless entry, a 9.2-inch touchscreen with live mapping and gesture control, and a wireless phone charger.
Finally, the top-spec Sportline comes with a special exterior styling pack, dark-finished alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, electric driver's seat adjustment, suede-effect upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and selectable driving modes.
John Donegan, Skoda Ireland, Brand Director said: "The Kodiaq has helped propel the Skoda brand to new heights, moving us into fourth position in the Irish sales rankings. The new Kodiaq has improved interiors and even more standard equipment and safety features. The Kodiaq has often been a victim of its own success with demand outstripping supply. I would urge customers considering the new revised Kodiaq for 2022 to engage with their local dealer at their earliest convenience to avoid delays and disappointment. I am confident our customers will love the new revised Kodiaq just as much as the outgoing version."