Read Caroline’s Skoda Kodiaq PHEV review for everything you need to know about buying Skoda’s large plug-in hybrid SUV in Ireland.
The Skoda Kodiaq is one of Ireland’s favourite large SUVs and has been since its launch back in 2017.
Now in its second generation, it remains one of Skoda Ireland’s bestsellers. Available as petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, the new Kodiaq offers buyers plenty of options.
In this review, I’m taking a closer look at the new Kodiaq plug-in hybrid in arguably the most desirable Sportline trim.
While the Kodiaq has always been a popular seven-seat SUV, the plug-in hybrid is offered as a five seater only. But with a very big boot and low emissions powertrain that brings a number of benefits worth considering.
Let’s take a closer look.
Design
The new Kodiaq has grown in length and matured in style. The Sportline is a relative newcomer to the new Kodiaq range and has always been very desirable for its sporty styling. This trim does wonders for the Kodiaq, thanks to a few subtle differences. Finished in Race Blue Metallic like my test car, it’s a real head turner.
Sportline updates include a special set of 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch option on test car) and sportier bumpers. The front grille surround, wing mirror caps and roof rails are all finished in black. The D-pillar also gets a black finish, which really looks good.
Other standard features include matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights with scrolling indicators.
Skoda Kodiaq Interior
The Kodiaq Sportline is simply gorgeous inside. The trim updates make a big difference. Highlights include a three-spoke steering wheel with paddles and front sports seats with integrated headrests finished in synthetic suede and leather. There’s more of that suede effect on the dashboard, which adds a plush feel to the cabin.
The standard screen size is 10.4-inch though you can upgrade to a larger 13-inch screen as part of a pack. The standard screen is fine and includes voice control as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s an intuitive system to use and Skoda’s ‘Smart Dials’ add a tactile (and customisable) element to controls that otherwise would be purely through the touchscreen, like adjusting drive modes or the climate control. There’s also a full digital driver display and two wireless smartphone charging pads.
Other standard features include a panoramic opening sunroof with blind, heated front seats, parking camera and keyless entry, as well as a suite of safety features.
What is the boot space for the Skoda Kodiaq plug-in hybrid?
There’s a whopping 745 litres of boot space available in the Kodiaq plug-in hybrid, just 100 litres less than the petrol or diesel versions. Powered tailgate comes standard across the range.
Practicality
The Kodiaq plug-in hybrid tested here is five-seat only, which might put off buyers seeking the flexibility of seven-seat SUVs. There’s a slightly longer wheelbase than the previous version, and loads of legroom and headroom in the back for children or adults. Tri-zone climate control comes as standard across the range with separate vents for rear passengers. There are also USB ports.
There’s Isofix child seat fixtures on the front passenger seat and the two outer seats in the back.
The PHEV can tow up to 1.8 tonnes so the best for towing in the Kodiaq range is the diesel 4×4 (2.5 tonne towing capacity).
What is the range of the Skoda Kodiaq PHEV?
The Kodiaq PHEV uses a 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery (usable capacity) with a range of up to 115 kilometres possible on battery power alone.
How long does it take to charge a Skoda Kodiaq plug-in hybrid?
The Kodiaq can accept up to 40kW DC charging so the best case scenario is 25 minutes at a public fast charger for a 10-80% charge. If charging at home from a household socket, it will take a little over 11 hours, or 3.5 hours from a 7kW wallbox.
Driving the Kodiaq PHEV
The Kodiaq is available with a 1.5-litre petrol engine (150hp), a 2.0-litre diesel (150hp or 190hp) and as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) based around a 1.5-litre petrol engine, battery and electric motor. The PHEV is front wheel drive only and is the most powerful of the range with a combined power output of 202hp, put to the road via a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission.
It’s a strong, smooth delivery of power that does wonders for the Kodiaq’s on-the-road behaviour. It’s incredibly quiet and refined, particularly compared to the popular Kodiaq diesel. So for drivers who spend a lot of time in town and city driving, it’s definitely going to be a more calm and pleasant drive.
Motor tax for the Kodiaq PHEV is just €140 per year. Even when the hybrid battery runs out, it performs pretty well. Average fuel consumption during my test was about 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres. It will be at its best however when charged regularly, Many drivers may be able to do all their regular trips on EV power alone.
The Kodiaq handles the road with quiet competence without any great sense of engagement, but that’s not really a criticism. More importantly, it’s comfortable and refined for Irish roads.
Skoda Kodiaq Hybrid Price
The plug-in hybrid is the most affordable of the Kodiaq range, albeit the most powerful too – but it’s only available as a five seater, which may limit its appeal somewhat among families looking for the flexibility of seven seats. It starts from €53,640 for the Selection, rising to €58,400 for the Sportline tested here.
Verdict
Skoda still sells a lot of petrol and diesel cars in Ireland but its electric and hybrid car sales are growing, reflecting trends in the wider market.
The Kodiaq is one of Ireland’s favourite SUVs and it’s easy to see why for its combination of space, practicality and choice. The new plug-in hybrid is a great addition to the range. Not only is it the most affordable entry point to ownership, but it’s also incredibly good to drive with smooth refinement – and efficient too.
The only caveat is that it’s a five seater only, which could work against it for buyers seeking the extra flexibility of seven seats. But as a large, comfortable five-seat SUV with an enormous boot, it’s hard to beat.
The Sportline trim as always is highly desirable and a tempting combination for the Kodiaq plug-in hybrid.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
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