New SUV to have its world debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show
We have new official details about Skoda's upcoming large SUV, the Kodiaq, disclosed ahead of the model's world premiere at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.
Built on the same platform as the VW Tiguan and SEAT Ateca, the Kodiaq is a 4.7-meter (185 inches) long SUV that will offer an optional third row of seats and "the largest boot capacity within its segment," according to the automaker.
Going on sale in early 2017 across Europe, the Kodiaq will sit above the Yeti in Skoda's lineup as a larger, more practical alternative. With the new SUV, the carmaker targets new customer groups in an attempt to increase its market shares and strengthen its position in international markets.
Skoda hasn't released photos of the final product yet, but instead it has shown a disguised prototype that looks a lot like the VisionS SUV study unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.
The Kodiaq will be available in either five- or seven-seat configurations and will offer a cargo capacity of up to 2,065 liters (72.9 cu-ft) in standard guise. The SUV will offer standard longitudinally adjustable rear seats with backrests that can be tilted as required, which means more versatility.
The Kodiaq will also introduce new "Simply Clever" features such as a plastic door edge protection that deploys automatically to avoid damaging the vehicle in garages or car parks, an electric child safety lock as well as specific headrests that make sleeping more comfortable during long trips.
When it comes to connectivity, Skoda's upcoming SUV will be available with VW Group's second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix systems fitted with capacitive touch screens. The range-topping Columbus and Amundsen interfaces will feature a WiFi hotspot, with an LTE module offered as an option on the former system.
As with Skoda's recent models, the Kodiaq will allow drivers to pair their smartphones to the infotainment system. The entry-level Swing interface will offer the SmartLink platform as an option, allowing compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink, and SmartGate.
When the new Skoda Kodiaq launches at the beginning of 2017, it will be available with five engines – two TDIs and three TSIs. The most powerful gasoline engine will be a 2.0-liter TSI with 180 PS (178 hp). Six-speed manual and DSG transmissions will be offered, in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. More expensive versions will also feature Driving Mode Select and the new Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC).
Safety assist systems will include the new Area View cameras, the Front Assist with predictive pedestrian protection function, Parking Distance Control with braking function, and Tow Assist system, among other things.