Skoda Kodiaq Select 2025 Review

Skoda Australia has confirmed pricing for the new-generation Kodiaq, starting at $54,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level Select 140TSI. The mid-spec Sportline 140TSI (pictured) is priced from $58,990, while the limited-run Launch Edition 140TSI, which includes all available features, tops out at $63,490. Pricing for the performance-oriented Kodiaq RS will be announced closer to its mid-year arrival.

The Select variant tested here rides on 19-inch alloys and comes well-equipped with tri-zone climate control, heated leather seats, dual 15W wireless chargers, a 13-inch infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comprehensive safety technology including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, rear cross-traffic alert, lane assist, and traffic jam assist. Under the bonnet is a familiar and refined Volkswagen Group 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 140kW and 320Nm, matched exclusively to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that powers all four wheels as standard across the range.

The Sportline builds on the Select by adding sportier styling elements and additional features aimed at enhancing both aesthetics and driving comfort. It includes larger 20-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights with cornering functions, dynamic rear indicators, a heated steering wheel, and suede and leather sports seats. For those wanting even more, a $4000 Ultimate Package adds dynamic chassis control with adaptive dampers, progressive steering, a surround-view camera, intelligent park assist, a head-up display, a hands-free tailgate, a premium Canton sound system, and heated rear outboard seats.

The limited-run Launch Edition further elevates the Select’s specifications, incorporating everything from the Ultimate Package as standard, along with luxurious extras such as ventilated massaging front seats and a panoramic glass sunroof. Buyers also have the choice between an elegant Cognac (brown) or classic black interior.

On-road dynamics are consistently strong, with the Kodiaq demonstrating impressively smooth and well-weighted steering that proves particularly beneficial when manoeuvring through tight city streets or cruising comfortably at highway speeds. The car’s predictable and responsive handling provides an overall sense of ease and confidence behind the wheel, making it ideal for family-oriented daily driving. Another highlight is the advanced safety systems, which are well-calibrated and non-intrusive. Having driven some appalling vehicles recently, I’m looking at you Deepal S07 and Leapmotor C10, it’s reassuring to experience a system that feels mature and effective.

Thoughtful cabin features further enhance the Kodiaq's family appeal. Small touches such as protective door edging strips, an integrated umbrella in the door, and practical rear window shades demonstrate genuine consideration for day-to-day usability. Storage solutions are also abundant, with dual glove boxes—one standard and another cleverly integrated into the dash—providing ample storage for small essentials.

Technology integration is another highlight. The large, high-resolution infotainment screen impresses with its clarity and responsiveness, and the system’s compatibility with wireless smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is seamless and convenient. The cabin's digital instrument cluster is intuitive, presenting key driving information clearly, and Skoda's new multifunction 'smart dials' provide versatile controls for audio volume, climate settings, and even seat heating and ventilation on the Launch Edition.

Passenger amenities in the second row are notably impressive. Even with the driver's seat adjusted for taller occupants, there’s plenty of leg and shoulder room available. The rear seats offer practical features such as tri-zone climate control, two USB-C charging points, a 12V outlet, window shades, and thoughtful storage pockets suitable for magazines, devices, or small items. Additional family-friendly touches include integrated coat hangers and device holders on the back of the front head restraints.

Skoda’s attention to detail continues into the cargo area. The boot is equipped with practical features such as bag hooks, tie-down points, and hidden compartments under the boot floor to securely stow the cargo blind and other small items. The powered tailgate and moderately sized boot opening make loading luggage and shopping easy. With the second and third rows folded down, cargo space expands to a generous 2037 litres—ideal for bulky items, weekend getaways and that occasional trip to the tip. It's great to see a space-saver spare tyre under the boot floor too.

Skoda enhances the Kodiaq's overall value proposition with a competitive after-sales offering. Every Kodiaq is covered by Skoda’s reassuring seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, providing considerable peace of mind. Additionally, pre-paid service packages are available, priced at $2450 for five years or $2750 for seven years, delivering predictable running costs and bolstering the Kodiaq's appeal compared to segment rivals.

Despite many thoughtful features, the Kodiaq has notable drawbacks. A significant issue is cabin refinement, particularly tyre roar transmitted into the interior on larger wheels, along with intrusive suspension noise over rough surfaces and sharp bumps. This noise negatively impacts cabin comfort on longer journeys, undermining the Kodiaq’s premium feel.

Interior material quality is also inconsistent. Although the Select variant benefits from practical leather seats, certain plastics—particularly faux metal-look trim pieces—feel cheap, diminishing perceived quality. Furthermore, the seats themselves are quite firm, potentially uncomfortable for longer drives, echoing a common issue across Volkswagen Group vehicles.

However, the biggest compromise is the third-row seating arrangement, likely due to the carry-over platform. Access is cumbersome, requiring the second-row seats to manually slide fully forward, leaving an extremely narrow gap even for small children. The third-row occupants have minimal comfort, no air vents, and inadequate cupholders. This third row is genuinely suitable only for occasional use and significantly detracts from the vehicle's practicality as a full-time family transporter.

Cabin ergonomics also have missteps, including an awkward gear selector, limited centre-console storage and small cup holders.

The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq remains an appealing family SUV for buyers who predominantly need a spacious five-seater with occasional third-row use. Its practicality, thoughtful features, and solid driving dynamics ensure competitiveness. However, similarly priced rivals in the seven-seat family SUV segment offer greater practicality and superior hybrid drivetrains.

Still, the Kodiaq presents a compelling value proposition thanks to its robust after-sales offering, including a generous seven-year warranty and competitively priced service packages, making it an attractive long-term ownership proposition. Skoda has done a commendable job improving an already strong product, but ultimately, they haven't quite done enough to match or surpass the big kids on the block.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq Select at a glance:
Price: $54,990 (plus on-road costs)
Available: Now
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 140kW/320Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
CO2: 209g/km (ADR Combined)
Fuel consumption: 7.6L/100km (As-tested)
Safety rating: 5-Star (ANCAP 2024)

* Skoda Kodiaq Sportline pictured

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