Skoda Kodiaq Review 2025: The Family SUV That Quietly Outclasses the Flashy Brands
11.01.2026 - 18:34:21
You know that moment when your life simply outgrows your car? The stroller barely fits, school bags are piled under your feet, groceries ride shotgun, and every road trip feels like a game of human Tetris. The SUV you bought for "space and freedom" now feels like a cramped waiting room on wheels.
Thats the reality for a lot of growing families. You want something bigger, but you also dont want a lumbering gas-guzzler, a flashy badge that screams for attention, or a dashboard so convoluted you need a manual just to turn on the defroster. You just want a calm, roomy, smart SUV that makes your daily chaos a bit less chaotic.
Enter the solution.
The Skoda Kodiaq is Skodas big three-row SUV, designed exactly for this moment in your life when practicality stops being a nice-to-have and becomes the whole point. Its not the loudest or the most glamorous name in the segment, but if you dig into the specs, owner reviews, and what real drivers say on forums and Reddit, a pattern emerges: this is the SUV people buy once and then quietly recommend to everyone they know.
Why this specific model?
The current Skoda Kodiaq (including the recently introduced second generation in Europe) doubles down on what made the first one such a cult favorite: space, comfort, and subtle smart features that make everyday life easier.
On Skodas official site, the Kodiaq is positioned as a large SUV with up to seven seats, a range of efficient TSI (gasoline) and TDI (diesel) engines, and optional all-wheel drive. But the magic isnt just in the powertrain list; its how all of this translates into the way you and your family actually use the car.
- Space that feels like a living room, not a bus. The Kodiaqs cabin is one of the most spacious in its class. Adults can sit comfortably in the second row, and kids (or smaller adults) fit fine in the optional third row. The rear seats slide and recline, so you can trade legroom for cargo space depending on the day.
- Usable third row, not a marketing gimmick. Many 7-seat SUVs technically have three rows, but the last row is a punishment. In the Kodiaq, its better thought out: fine for kids on long trips, or adults on shorter journeys. Fold it flat and youre left with a cavernous trunk.
- Drives like a car, not a tank. Real-world testers and owners consistently highlight how composed and easy to drive the Kodiaq feels. Steering is light but accurate, the suspension leans comfort over sport, and visibility is excellent. If youre upgrading from a compact car, it doesnt feel intimidating.
- Engines that balance power and efficiency. Depending on the market, youll see turbocharged gasoline (TSI) and diesel (TDI) options, often paired with Skodas DSG dual-clutch automatic. On owner forums, the 1.5 TSI is praised as economical and fine for mostly city/highway use, while the 2.0 TDI or 2.0 TSI variants are favored for full loads, towing, and frequent long trips.
- New generation, more tech. The latest Kodiaq generation (as listed on Skodas German site) adds larger infotainment screens, improved digital instrument clusters, and upgraded driver-assistance tech think adaptive cruise, lane assist, and surround-view cameras in higher trims.
For you, that all translates into something simple: its big enough, comfortable enough, and smart enough that you stop thinking about the car and just live your life around it.
At a Glance: The Facts
| Feature | User Benefit |
|---|---|
| Up to 7 seats with sliding second row | Flexible layout for families, carpools, or road trips without needing a full-size van. |
| Huge cargo space with rear seats folded | Haul bikes, IKEA runs, strollers, and luggage without a roof box or trailer. |
| Turbocharged TSI/TDI engines with optional AWD | Good balance of power and fuel economy, plus extra traction in bad weather. |
| Modern infotainment with smartphone integration | Use Apple CarPlay / Android Auto for navigation, music, and calls with minimal distraction. |
| Advanced driver-assistance systems | Adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and parking aids reduce fatigue and boost confidence. |
| Comfort-tuned suspension | Smoother ride over potholes and rough roads, keeping kids (and you) calmer. |
| Skoda "Simply Clever" details | Umbrella in the door, ice scraper in the fuel cap, hooks and nets in the trunk small touches that solve daily annoyances. |
What Users Are Saying
Dig into Reddit threads and owner forums and a clear sentiment emerges: the Skoda Kodiaq is one of those Why dont more people know about this? cars.
The praise:
- Space and practicality. Owners repeatedly mention how easy it is to load kids, dogs, and cargo. The combination of a big trunk and usable third row is a recurring highlight.
- Comfort on long drives. Many drivers report that the Kodiaq excels on highways: quiet cabin (especially on newer models), stable at speed, and seats that stay comfortable for hours.
- Value for money. Compared to more premium-branded cousins within the Volkswagen Group, the Kodiaq often undercuts them on price while sharing a lot of the same underlying tech.
- Clever features. Things like the door-edge protectors, umbrella storage, and smart interior storage solutions get mentioned far more than youd expect. These details genuinely change daily use.
The complaints:
- DSG behavior in traffic. Some owners on forums note that the dual-clutch transmission can feel a bit jerky at very low speeds or in stop-and-go traffic, especially on older models. Newer calibrations are reportedly better, but its something to test-drive carefully.
- Base audio and trim. Entry-level trims can feel a bit plain compared to higher-spec models. Many reviewers suggest stepping up at least one trim level for better materials and tech.
- Third row best for kids. While more usable than many rivals, the third row is still not a place tall adults will love for long journeys.
Overall, the real-world verdict lines up with professional reviews: the Kodiaq isnt about drama or performance bragging rights. Its about making family life easier and trips more relaxed.
Its also worth noting that Skoda sits under the umbrella of Volkswagen AG (ISIN: DE0007664039), which means the Kodiaq benefits from the broader VW Group platform engineering, engines, and safety technology, even if it wears a more understated badge.
Alternatives vs. Skoda Kodiaq
The three-row SUV market is crowded, and youll absolutely cross-shop the Skoda Kodiaq with some heavy hitters.
- Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace / Tiguan LWB
Shares a lot with the Kodiaq under the skin, but often priced higher in many markets. The VW generally leans a bit more premium in feel; the Kodiaq counters with more thoughtful practicality and a slightly roomier, more family-oriented vibe. - Kia Sorento
The Sorento fights back with bold styling, strong warranties, and hybrid options in some regions. Inside, it can feel more high-tech and design-led, but not everyone loves the busier interior. The Kodiaq focuses on clean ergonomics and get in and go simplicity. - Hyundai Santa Fe
A solid alternative with lots of equipment and comfort. The Santa Fe often competes closely on price, but many reviewers note the Kodiaqs driving dynamics and packaging as a bit more European and refined. - Peugeot 5008
Stylish, quirky, and very French. The 5008 is cleverly packaged too, but its i-Cockpit layout and tiny steering wheel are love-it-or-hate-it. The Kodiaqs more conventional interior will appeal if you prefer familiarity over experimentation.
If you want the most cutting-edge styling, some rivals may lure you in. If you care more about a stress-free, roomy, cleverly designed cabin with a calm driving experience, the Skoda Kodiaq has a quietly compelling edge.
Final Verdict
The Skoda Kodiaq is not the SUV you buy to impress your neighbors at first glance. Its the SUV you buy that ends up impressing you, week after week, every time you load it up for the school run, a road trip, or a messy Saturday of errands.
It solves the modern family problem: too many people, too much stuff, not enough patience. It gives you space without excess bulk, comfort without floatiness, and tech without turning the dashboard into a distraction-fest. And because it sits within the Volkswagen Group ecosystem, youre benefiting from proven platforms and safety tech without always paying the premium-badge tax.
If youre currently staring at your compact SUV wondering how youre going to fit a couple of kids, a dog, a stroller, plus the next chapter of your life into it, the Skoda Kodiaq deserves a place at the very top of your test-drive list.
Its not just a bigger car. Its breathing room, on four wheels.
