Used Skoda Kodiaq (2017-2024) Buying Guide For Families

The Skoda Kodiaq Mk1, produced from 2017 to 2024, redefined what a practical family SUV could offer. This seven-seater impressed with its cavernous interior, balanced driving manners, and high owner satisfaction scores, making it a standout in the used market today.

Why the Kodiaq Excels for Families

Skoda’s first venture into seven-seat territory hit the mark perfectly. Unlike many rivals that compromise on usability, the Kodiaq delivers genuine flexibility for large households. Its design prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo space without feeling oversized on the road.

• Class-leading boot capacity: Up to 2,005 liters with rear seats folded, ideal for bulky items like strollers or sports gear.
• Flexible seating: Third row accessible for adults on shorter trips, with easy-folding mechanisms.
• Adult-friendly second row: Ample legroom and ISOFIX points across multiple positions.

Owners frequently praise its ‘Simply Clever’ touches, such as door-edge protectors, umbrella holders, and tablet mounts, enhancing everyday usability.

Engine Lineup and Performance Breakdown

The Kodiaq’s powertrains cater to diverse needs, from urban commuting to long hauls. Petrol and diesel options, paired with manual or DSG automatic transmissions, ensure broad appeal.

The 1.5 TSI stands out for refinement, idling almost silently and staying composed below 4,500rpm. It’s punchy enough for family loads but shines in stop-start traffic. Diesels, especially the 2.0 TDI 150/190hp with 4×4, excel in efficiency for high-mileage drivers, returning over 50mpg on motorways.

DSG automatics are smooth for most, though early models may exhibit slight jerkiness at low speeds—test thoroughly.

Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Capability

Behind the wheel, the Kodiaq strikes a harmonious balance. It’s not a sports SUV, but its chassis tuning delivers confident handling without sacrificing ride quality.

• Urban agility: Light steering and good visibility make parking straightforward, aided by standard sensors and cameras.
• Motorway poise: Composed over lumps, with low wind/tyre noise for relaxed cruising.
• Optional 4×4: Adds grip for light off-road or wintry conditions, with adaptive dampers smoothing rough patches.

At low speeds, the suspension can feel fidgety on potholes, but it settles into comfort on faster roads. Seats provide excellent support for hours-long drives.

Interior Quality and Tech Highlights

Skoda’s cabin craftsmanship impresses, with soft-touch materials and ergonomic layout outpacing many competitors. Higher trims like Sportline add flair with Alcantara and ambient lighting.

Infotainment evolves across years: early units have 8-inch screens with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; facelifts (2021+) upgrade to 9.2-inch touchscreens and virtual cockpits.

• Climate zones: Tri-zone standard, quad optional.
• Practicality gems: Ice scraper in fuel filler, parcel shelf hooks.
• Boot features: Power tailgate, underfloor storage.

Reliability and Owner Satisfaction

The Kodiaq dominated Driver Power surveys, ranking 6th in 2019-2021 out of 75 cars. It topped reliability and value, though servicing costs drew criticism. Common issues are minimal: occasional DSG hesitancy, infotainment glitches (fixed via updates), and diesel AdBlue sensor faults in high-mileage examples.

Used Car Expert rates it ‘C’ (64%), noting average emissions but high running costs due to dated safety ratings post-2024.

Buying Advice: Trims, Mileage, and Checks

Entry SE offers value; SE L adds nav/leather; Sportline/Laurin & Klement bring premium touches. Aim for 2021+ facelifts for better tech/safety.

• Budget: £15,000-£30,000 depending on spec/miles.
• Key checks: Service history (annually), DSG fluid changes (every 40k miles), tyre wear on 4x4s.
• Avoid: Pre-2019 high-mileage diesels without records; test for suspension knocks.

Post-2021 models include matrix LED lights, adaptive cruise, and side airbags as standard, boosting safety.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Comparing Rivals

The Kodiaq undercuts pricier options like VW Tiguan Allspace or Peugeot 5008 while matching space. It’s more reliable than Nissan X-Trail and drives better than Hyundai Santa Fe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Skoda Kodiaq reliable?

Yes, it scores highly in owner surveys for dependability, with few major faults reported.

What’s the boot space like?

720 liters (7 seats up), expanding to 2,005 liters—best in class.

Petrol or diesel for used buy?

Diesel for motorway miles; petrol for shorter trips due to refinement.

Any common problems?

DSG transmission shifts, infotainment freezes, and minor diesel issues—check history.

7 seats usable for adults?

Suitable for children/teens; adults fit for short journeys.

Final Thoughts on Value

For families prioritizing space, comfort, and low ownership hassles, the used Kodiaq Mk1 delivers unmatched bang-for-buck. Its awards, including Top Gear’s family car nod, underscore enduring appeal. Inspect thoroughly, prioritize service records, and you’ll secure a versatile SUV for years.