Sometimes a car is greater than the sum of its parts. Skoda’s new SUV, the Kodiaq, looks like the result of a raid on the Volkswagen Group parts bin, with a typically Skoda front end grafted on. But the end result is a bit special.
In top-trim 4x4 guise, with a 2.0-litre diesel engine, the Kodiaq proved grippy and entertaining on switchback Mallorcan roads at the car’s launch. There’s a choice of five or seven seats, and while there’s plenty of room in the front and middle seats, the third row is only suitable for children. Even with the 1.4-litre petrol engine, the car is smooth and remarkably quiet, with the engine easily powerful enough for a car of this size.
Even entry-level cars have impressively equipped interiors with plenty of safety equipment and good connectivity. It has nice touches, such as small rubbing strips which emerge to protect the edges of the doors when they are open, a neatly stowed umbrella, wireless phone-charging, 360-degree view door cameras and trailer assist.
Priced between £21,495 and £34,895, the Kodiaq, named after the world’s biggest brown bear, looks like pretty good value against some well- established opposition. And all from a rummage in the VW parts bin.
Skoda Kodiaq
Combined MPG: 53.3;
CO2: 139g/km;
Top speed: 122mph;
Price: £28,245