Skoda Kodiaq 2017 Review: 7-Seater Family SUV, 2,005L Boot

The 2017 Skoda Kodiaq marked a significant milestone for the Czech automaker, introducing its first-ever seven-seater SUV. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, this model combines practicality, comfort, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. Families appreciate its flexible seating, generous cargo capacity, and thoughtful features designed for everyday use.

Design and Exterior Highlights

From the outside, the Kodiaq presents a bold yet understated appearance. Its **ramped wagon** styling emphasizes on-road capability over rugged off-road prowess, with clean lines, a prominent grille, and sleek LED headlights on higher trims. The body measures around 4.7 meters long, striking a balance between maneuverability and presence on the road.

Wheel options range from 17-inch alloys on base models to 19-inch on top specs, shod with Pirelli Scorpion tires that deliver excellent grip and minimal noise. Aerodynamic touches like active grille shutters enhance efficiency, while practical elements such as roof rails cater to adventure-seeking owners.

Interior Comfort and Space Mastery

Step inside, and the Kodiaq reveals its family-oriented soul. The cabin feels **well-made and hard-wearing**, with a simple dashboard layout featuring physical climate controls and a responsive touchscreen infotainment system. Materials include soft-touch plastics, quilted cloth seats in entry models (leather upgrades available), and a premium ambiance that punches above its price point.

Seating for seven is genuine, not an afterthought. The third row suits children best, but sliding the 60/40-split second row forward boosts legroom. Boot space starts at 270 liters with all seats up, expanding to over 2,000 liters when folded—ideal for holidays or shopping hauls. Unique Skoda touches abound: door-edge protectors, rear window blinds (via optional Family Pack), ice scraper in the fuel flap, and door-mounted umbrellas.

Driver visibility is excellent, aided by a raised position, though slim A-pillars help minimize blind spots. The steering wheel, leather-wrapped with intuitive controls, frames clear analog gauges or an optional digital cluster.

Technology and Infotainment Features

Skoda’s latest media system shines with a crisp display, seamless Bluetooth pairing, and intuitive navigation. Base Ambition trims include reversing camera, parking sensors, adaptive cruise (higher specs), and drowsiness detection. The DSG automatic features a virtual pedal for hands-free tailgate operation.

Audio is solid but not class-leading, occasionally sounding flat. Higher trims add park assist, lane-keeping, and blind-spot monitoring for enhanced safety.

• Standard tech: Dual-zone climate, auto wipers/headlights, keyless start.
• Upgrades: Triple-zone AC, heated seats, SatNav.

Engine Lineup and Performance

Powertrains cater to varied needs: a 1.4 TSI petrol (150 hp) with DSG auto, and 2.0 TDI diesels (150/190 hp), some with AWD. Acceleration ranges from 6.6 to 9.9 seconds to 60 mph, prioritizing efficiency over thrill.

Real-world fuel economy hovers around 8-9 L/100km combined, better on highways. The DSG gearbox is smooth at speed but jerky from cold or low-speed maneuvers, requiring driver finesse.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

The Kodiaq excels as a **relaxed cruiser**, with adaptive dampers (optional) maintaining composure over bumps. It’s planted on highways, quiet inside (minimal wind/road noise), but feels its 1,700+ kg weight in corners—steering lacks feel, prioritizing comfort.

In town, light steering and parking aids make it easy despite its size. Low-speed suspension can fidget on rough patches, but overall refinement impresses. Drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) adjust throttle and dampers, though Sport remains tame.

Safety and Reliability Insights

Standard safety includes autonomous emergency braking, multi-collision brake, and tire pressure monitoring. Euro NCAP awarded it five stars. Long-term ownership reports praise durability, with over 185,000 km showing no rattles and strong build quality.

Trims, Pricing, and Value

Starting around $40,000 for Ambition, it undercuts rivals with generous kit. Style tops out with luxury extras. Compared to Mazda CX-9 or VW Tiguan, the Kodiaq offers superior space at a lower cost.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Vast space, quality interior, comfy ride, value-packed.
• Cons: DSG jerkiness, heavy feel, modest excitement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Skoda Kodiaq suitable for seven adults?

The third row is best for children; adults fit but with limited legroom.

How fuel-efficient is the 1.4 TSI?

Expect 6-9 L/100km combined, varying by driving style.

Does it have AWD?

Yes, on select diesels and higher trims.

What’s the warranty?

Typically 3-5 years, with strong reliability feedback.

Can it tow?

Up to 2,000 kg braked, great for trailers.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Skoda Kodiaq proves Skoda’s knack for practical excellence. It’s not a sports SUV but a dependable family hauler with space, tech, and comfort that rivals pricier options. Ideal for those prioritizing versatility over adrenaline.