2017 Skoda Kodiaq review, test drive

Should I buy one?

The Kodiaq is expected in Indian showrooms by the third quarter of 2017, so likely just before Diwali. It will be priced to overlap, but sit slightly above the Superb, which should translate to about Rs 27-32 lakh, ex-showroom. That puts it bang in the same range as the Fortuner and Endeavour, and its most direct rival the Hyundai Santa Fe. It might not be as crowded or competitive as other segments, but all the cars in it are quite popular, so what does the Kodiaq bring to the table to make it stand out?

Seven seats, for one, as at this price point, a five-seater would be hard to justify unless it came from a luxury brand. Strong motors are a must too, and thankfully even the lower-powered diesel feels more than powerful enough. Equipment – well, that remains to be seen, but given how Skoda specs its other cars, we’re confident a lot of the European Kodiaq’s goodies will make it to us. The interior perhaps doesn’t feel out-and-out luxurious, but it’s up to class standards and does shake up the Skoda formula to make it more interesting. But the two things that really work in the Kodiaq’s favour are the way it looks and the space on offer. This is a sharp-looking SUV and that’s sure to go down well with image-conscious Indians. And it’s properly roomy too, a Skoda hallmark, with flexible seating and luggage space. Come Diwali 2017, we will have a very exciting SUV to look forward to.

GAVIN D’SOUZA