Skoda Australia to overlook plug-in hybrid offering 100km EV range, but new Kodiaq will still be high-tech
Key details of the incoming 2024 Skoda Kodiaq have been released ahead of the second-generation family SUV’s unveiling in the next few months and its launch in Australia next year.
Skoda promises a distinctive new design, advanced safety and infotainment technology, a more practical and roomier interior – particularly for passengers in the third row, when specified – and new powertrains, although the headline act, a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV), will not be part of the Aussie line-up.
As carsales has reported, Skoda Australia boss Michael Irmer has already ruled out the PHEV for our market, with the Czech brand focusing instead of full battery-electric vehicles – starting with the 2024 Skoda Enyaq that also arrives next year.
What are we missing? The new PHEV powertrain in Kodiaq combines a 110kW 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, a six-speed dual-clutch (DSG) transmission and a 25.7kWh battery.
Total output is a punchy 150kW, while the all-electric driving range is said to be more than 100km.
Instead, Skoda Australia will choose from more traditional engines including a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel – producing 142kW in all-wheel drive form or 110kW in 2WD – mated to a seven-speed DSG, and a 150kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol with seven-speed DSG and AWD.
There will also be a 110kW 1.5-litre TSI with mild-hybrid and cylinder-deactivation tech at the entry level of the European range, also paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch.
No torque figures or performance claims have been issued, while the current line-up in Australia includes only a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (132kW/320Nm) and the flagship RS (180kW/370Nm).
There’s no word yet on the next Kodiaq RS.
New Skoda Kodiaq – bigger and more advanced
The new 2024 Koda Kodiaq is longer than the current first generation, measuring 4758mm nose to tail (+61mm), although the 2791mm wheelbase is just 1mm longer. Maximum width is 1864mm and height 1657mm.
Skoda says third-row passengers in the seven-seat version will have 15mm more headroom (at 920mm), while luggage capacity is 340-845 litres for the seven-seater and 910L for the five-seater.
The current model has 270L behind the third row and 765L with the rearmost seats stowed away.
Boosting practicality, the second row of seats can now move fore-aft, plus there’s a new rear storage compartment in the centre tunnel with a cup holder for rear passengers.
As per the current model, flexible compartments are provided to help organise the luggage space.
Up front, the transmission shift lever has been relocated to the steering column to help create an uncluttered centre console.
There’s a new 12.9-inch central touch-screen that combines with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.
Other highlights include the introduction of an auto-park function, the availability of sculpted LED Matrix headlights (including a coloured crystalline element dubbed Crystallinium), a cooled dual ‘phone box’ (enabling two phones to be charged at the same time at higher power of up to 15W) and a unique display cleaner for the touch-screens.
Safety features include up to nine airbags (including side airbags for second-row occupants) and advanced systems such as a pre-collision Crew Protect Assist, emergency assist, traffic jam assist and new-generation adaptive cruise control.
Despite the fresh info, the new Kodiaq has yet to be fully unveiled but from earlier spy shots and a reveal of its naked body we do know that it will feature a bolder, smoother and more stylish look.
Stand by for more details on the 2024 Skoda Kodiaq as they come to hand.
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Keyword: 2024 Skoda Kodiaq detailed ahead of reveal