2024 Skoda Kodiaq previewed ahead of October 4 reveal

The second-generation 2024 Skoda Kodiaq has been previewed again with the release of new design sketches ahead of its official debut on October 4.

The Czech brand’s third most popular model last year is set to be redesigned with a wider grille on a more sculptured front-end featuring split headlights, while squared-off wheel-arches and smooth body-side surfacing will contribute to a more substantial look overall.

At the rear, the new Skoda Kodiaq gains a new bumper, revised LED tail-light clusters and large SKODA lettering on the tailgate.

The MkII Kodiaq will be longer than the original, measuring 4758mm from nose to tail (+61mm), although its 2791mm wheelbase is just 1mm longer. Maximum width is 1864mm and height 1657mm.

Skoda says third-row passengers in seven-seat versions will have 15mm more headroom (at 920mm), while cargo capacity is 340-845 litres for the seven-seater and up to 910L for the five-seater.

The new Kodiaq will be available with wheel options ranging from 17- to 20-inch in diameter.

Inside the large SUV’s new cabin, Skoda is promising more advanced technologies, better ergonomics, improved practicality, higher quality and more sustainable materials throughout.

Across the dash, the large digital displays are combined with three old-school rotary dials to make the cabin as easy and intuitive to use as possible.

Space has been freed up by moving the gear selector to the steering wheel column, producing a cleaner look with more storage.

Other notable new additions for the next Kodiaq and Superb include a head-up display and a fully digital 10-inch instrument cluster.

There will also be a large 12.9-inch central infotainment touch-screen, plus those rotary dials that integrate both haptic feedback and tiny 32mm digital displays.

The trio of ‘Smart Dials’ provide access to various functions, from controlling cabin temperature to adjusting seat ventilation, as well as changing audio volume, fan speed, air direction, map zoom and driving modes.

Pressing down on the centre dial allows users to change each rotary controller’s function. Another option will be configuring them through the infotainment screen.

Compared to the Superb, the Kodiaq’s dash has large double-stacked vertical air-vents and a more prominent centre console.

The ambient LED light strip also flows over the central air-vents on the SUV and below them on the sedan/wagon.

Both models get USB-C ports in the rear-view mirror for a dashcam and a 15W wireless smartphone charger. A further four USB-C ports are dotted around the cabin.

All fabrics are said to blend more sustainable materials, while one trim option uses only recycled polyester.

And in case you were wondering, the front door still stores an umbrella.

Both cars are based on Volkswagen Group’s overhauled MQB Evo platform, which should improve the way the next Superb and Kodiaq ride and drive, while introducing more sophisticated technology.

Under the bonnet, there will be a new PHEV powertrain that combines a 110kW 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 25.7kWh battery.

Total output is 150kW and the all-electric driving range is said to be more than 100km.

However, Aussies will miss out on the plug-in hybrid option as the Czech brand focussed on EVs in this market.

Instead, Skoda Australia will offer more traditional engines, perhaps including a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel – producing 142kW in all-wheel drive form or 110kW in 2WD – mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, and a 150kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with AWD.

There will also be a 110kW 1.5-litre TSI with mild-hybrid and cylinder-deactivation tech at the entry level of the European range, also paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch.

No torque figures or performance claims have been issued, but the current Kodiaq line-up in Australia includes only a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 132kW/320Nm, or 180kW/370Nm in the flagship RS.

There’s no word yet on the next Kodiaq RS.

As you would expect for a car that’s a firm family favourite, safety will also take huge strides forward with Skoda’s new flagship SUV.

There will be up to nine airbags (including side airbags for second-row occupants) and advanced systems such as a pre-collision Crew Protect Assist, emergency assist, traffic jam assist and new-generation adaptive cruise control.

Stand by for more teasers in the coming days, ahead of the new Kodiaq’s full reveal on October 4.

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