Skoda’s New Kodiaq To Be Launched In November With More Power Under The Hood

Skoda Australia has confirmed the arrival of the new second-generation Kodiaq SUV in November, boasting an upgraded turbocharged petrol engine for enhanced performance. The forthcoming 2025 Skoda Kodiaq marks a significant milestone for the Czech brand in Australia, as it competes in the crucial large SUV segment and stands as the flagship three-row SUV in Skoda’s lineup.

Notably, it has been a top seller for the brand, trailing only behind the Kamiq in 2023 with 1555 units registered. During the recent Skoda Brand Day, Skoda’s local head, Michael Irmer, revealed to the media that the Kodiaq’s launch would be phased, with standard models debuting first, followed by the yet-to-be-disclosed RS performance variant.

While specific trim levels for the launch remain undisclosed, Skoda has confirmed that the initial lineup will feature an updated 2.0 TSI engine generating 150kW of power, coupled with all-wheel drive an increase from the previous 132kW powertrain. This aligns the Kodiaq with European specifications, matching the newer 140kW version available in overseas markets.

The launch lineup will not include diesel or plug-in hybrid options, although Skoda has not ruled out their introduction in the future. Similarly, the entry-level 110kW 1.5 eTSI with 48V mild-hybrid technology will not be available in the Australian market now.

The upcoming Kodiaq RS is expected to follow the trend of recent VW products by boosting power to 195kW from the current 180kW, aligning it with models like the facelifted VW Golf GTI and new-gen VW Tiguan. Measuring 4758mm long, 1864mm wide, 1659mm tall, with a 2791mm wheelbase, the new Kodiaq is slightly longer and taller than its predecessor, providing more spacious seating and cargo options.

Notable features include a standard 10-inch Virtual Cockpit display, a 10.0-inch touchscreen atop the dashboard, a nine-speaker sound system, and advanced safety technologies such as Collision Avoidance Assist and autonomous parking assistance. The impending release of the 2025 Kodiaq marks a continuation of Skoda’s success story, with over 841,900 units of the original Kodiaq sold worldwide since its launch in 2016.