Skoda India has updated the 7-seater Kodiaq SUV in light of the new BS6 Phase 2 norms, with prices now starting at Rs 37.99 lakh. The company has also increased the Kodiaq’s allocation for India by over 50 percent, and it will continue to be imported to India via the CKD route and assembled at its Aurangabad plant.
2023 Skoda Kodiaq engine, performance and safety
The Skoda Kodiaq continues to utilise the 2-litre, turbo-petrol engine from the previous model, although there are some mild changes. Skoda says that they have reworked the engine to meet new emissions norms, and have also made it 4.2 percent more efficient than its predecessor.
However, the power output has not changed with the engine still churning out a respectable 190hp and 320Nm of torque. Skoda also claims that the SUV will do 0-100kph in 7.8 seconds, the same as the model it replaces.
The Skoda Kodiaq also gets a 7-speed dual-clutch (DSG) and a 4×4 system with Dynamic Chassis control, the same as the previous model. The Dynamic Chassis Control allows the car to be raised or lowered by 15mm depending on the mode.
As expected, the Skoda Kodiaq is loaded with safety features such as nine airbags as standard, brake assist, stability control, multi-collision braking and park assist with hands-free parking too.
2023 Skoda Kodiaq interior and features
The updates that 2023 brings to the Kodiaq aren’t limited to the engine. The rear spoiler has reworked vents that allow for better aerodynamic performance. The three-row SUV also gets automatic door edge protectors that only appear when the door is open, which allows the car to be safe from scratches and dents. The company has also introduced new headrests and even a lounge step for the middle row, all for added comfort.
The 2023 Kodiaq will continue with the same 8.0-inch touchscreen that comes with in-built navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-spec L&K will offer the CANTON 12-speaker sound system with a panoramic sunroof.
2023 Skoda Kodiaq price, variants and allocation
The Skoda Kodiaq now starts at Rs 37.99 lakh for the base variant, the Style, which is a good Rs 50,000 dearer than the outgoing model. The driver-focused Sportline variant is now priced at Rs 39.39 lakh, which is Rs 90,000 more expensive than the previous-generation variant.
The top-of-the-line, the Laurin & Klement, gets all the bells and whistles and as expected a bigger price. The L&K now starts at Rs 41.39 lakh – Rs 1.4 lakh more expensive than the previous model.
The Kodiaq is Skoda’s first 7-seater SUV and Skoda has been enjoying good demand for the vehicle. The company claims that the last batch of 1,200 units was sold out within 24 hours of opening bookings. This is why it has increased the allotment for the SUV from 1,200 in 2022, to 3,000 in 2023. The company, however, has not announced the booking date yet.