2018 Skoda Kodiaq review, road test

The Czech brand’s first middle-of-the-road SUV promises much, but does it deliver enough luxury SUV to justify the price? We put it under the microscope.

Published on Feb 02, 2018 06:00:00 AM

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150hp version of Volkswagen’s 2.0 litre diesel is smooth and very refined.

Alloys look a bit small, but 235/55 R18 tyres are good for our roads.

'C'-shaped LEDs are a Skoda signature; note crystal like detailing.

Skoda usually gets the ride and handling balance on its cars right. But here, without the aid of adjustable dampers the car gets in other markets, low-speed ride is a bit brittle. This is especially true at low speeds, where, over some shaper-edged bumps, there is the odd crack and some occasional thump from the suspension. And get onto some of the patchwork roads that we have aplenty here, and there’s a restlessness to the ride that can be mildly irritating. The suspension has been set-up to be slightly firmer than usual in an effort to control the body roll better, and what also plays a role here are stiffer anti-roll bars.

However, up the pace and the Kodiaq has the ability to flatten almost any bump, the stiffness now paying dividends. There is a bit of pitching and a hint of a bob, but otherwise the Kodiaq rides so well, passengers can relax inside the cabin without being tossed around, with only the odd thump emanating from the suspension.

Another thing owners will love about the SUV is the light, direct and quick steering. There isn’t much real feel and that can be an issue at higher speeds, but in the city, the steering needs next to no effort, and the Kodiaq steers so quickly, with little lock required, all you need to do is flick your wrists; elbows and arms not really needed.

So driving the Kodiaq around in the city is quite agreeable. And once on the highway, handling is neat and tidy too. Body roll is kept well in check. The front end has a fair amount of grip, and with the rear wheels chipping in to provide traction as and when needed, wringing the Kodiaq out is more enjoyable than we expected. It’s just that the overly quick steering has little real feel, and that robs you of confidence.