From off-road ability to its competitors, here is everything you need to know about the flagship 2025 Skoda Kodiaq SUV before heading to the showroom.
Skoda’s flagship SUV, the second-generation Kodiaq, recently launched with a 5-seat variant. Kodiaq now offers three distinct variants, each catering to different needs. Here are the five essential facts to consider before purchasing one.
Is the 2025 Kodiaq 5 or 7 seater?
The 2025 Kodiaq now offers both five-seat and seven-seat layouts
The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq is available in both five and seven-seat configurations. Initially launched in April 2025 with seven seats in the Sportline and L&K Selection trims, Skoda has recently introduced an entry-level five-seater variant named Lounge. While mechanically identical to its siblings, the Lounge features some distinct exterior and interior elements.
Trim levels
The entry-level variant offers maximum boot space.
All three variants offer distinctive practicality options, with the five-seater Lounge variant offering the largest dedicated boot space of 786 litres. While the seven-seat trims can achieve the same cargo volume, but by folding the third-row seats in a 50:50 split. However, choosing the entry-level model involves trade-offs, including a different feature list and alternative seat upholstery compared to the higher-spec variants.
| Key feature differentiators | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature | Lounge | SportLine | L&K |
| Boot Space (Litres) | 786 | 281 | 281 |
| Infotainment/Sound System | 10.4-inch display, 100W 9-speaker | 725W 13-speaker Canton system (higher variants) | 725W 13-speaker Canton system (higher variants) |
| No. of Exterior Colours | 3 | 6 (including Steel Grey) | 6 (including Bronx Gold) |
| Steering Wheel | Two-spoke | Three-spoke | Two-spoke |
| Wheel Design | 18″ Mazeno alloy wheels | 18″ Soira alloy wheels | 18″ Mazeno alloy wheels with Aero trims |
Off-Road Capability and 4X4
All-wheel drive is standard across all Kodiaq variants
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The Kodiaq comes equipped with all-wheel drive as standard on every variant, enabling effortless navigation across diverse terrains. Its robust suspension and balanced chassis maintain stability on slopes, even during significant weight shifts. On-board electronic aids enhance its off-road credentials; Hill Start Assist prevents rollback on inclines, while Hill Descent Control maintains a steady pace on descents. The Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) intelligently distributes torque to the wheels with the most grip, allowing the SUV to overcome obstacles where traction is limited.
The result is steady, undramatic progress for the occupants, with underbody protection and skid plates providing an extra layer of mechanical assurance.
Skoda Kodiaq 2025 price
The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq is offered in three distinct variants with the following ex-showroom prices: the Kodiaq Lounge, which is a 5-seater, is priced at ₹39.99 lakh; the Kodiaq Sportline, available with 7 seats, is priced at ₹43.76 lakh; and the top-end Kodiaq L&K Selection, also a 7-seater, is priced at ₹45.96 lakh.
Segment Rivals
The 2025 Kodiaq competes with established models from Toyota, MG, Jeep, Nissan, Hyundai and its corporate sibling, Volkswagen.
The Kodiaq enters a competitive field against rivals, including the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, Jeep Meridian, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan X-trail, and the Volkswagen Tiguan that share the same MQB platform. Each competitor offers a distinct driving cababilities, in-cabin experience, and comfort level.
| 2025 Kodiaq against its competitors | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specification | Kodiaq | Fortuner | X-Trail | Meridian | Gloster | Tucson | Tiguan |
| Powertrain | 1984cc 4 cyls Turbo Petrol | 2755cc Diesel/ Hybrid, 2694cc Petrol | 1498cc 3 cyls Turbo Petrol | 1956cc 4 clys Multijet Diesel | 1996cc Diesel Twin Turbo | 1997cc Diesel, 1999cc Petrol | 1984cc 4 cyls Turbo Petrol |
| Power | 204 hp, 320 Nm | Diesel: 204 hp, 500 Nm; Petrol: 166 hp, 245 Nm | 163 hp, 300 Nm | 170 hp, 350 Nm | 215 hp, 480 Nm | Diesel: 186 hp, 416 Nm; Petrol: 156 hp, 192Nm | 204 hp, 320 Nm |
| Gearbox | 7-speed dual-clutch Auto | Diesel: 6MT, 6AT; Petrol: 5MT, 6AT | CVT Auto | 6MT, 9AT | 8-speed AT | 6-speed DCT, AT | 7-speed dual-clutch Auto |
| AWD / 4×4 | AWD | 4WD | FWD | FWD / 4WD | 4WD | AWD | AWD |
| Dimensions (L x W x H mm) | 4758 x 1864 x 1679 | 4795 x 1855 x 1835 | 4680 x 1840 x 1725 | 4769 x 1859 x 1698 | 4985 x 1926 x 1867 | 4630 x 1865 x 1650 | 4539 x 1859 x 1656 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2791 | 2745 | 2705 | 2782 | 2950 | 2755 | 2680 |
| Vehicle Chassis | Monocoque | Ladder Frame | Monocoque | Ladder Frame | Monocoque | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Number of Seats | 5 & 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 & 7 | 6 & 7 | 5 | 5 |
| Ex-showroom Price (INR) | Rs 39.99 – 45.96 Lakh | Rs 33.65 – 48.85 Lakh | Rs 48.20 Lakh | Rs 24.99 – 38.79 Lakh | Rs 41.07 – 46.24 Lakh | Rs 29.26 – 35 Lakh | Rs 45.73 Lakh |
This detailed comparison shows the Kodiaq’s emphasis on premium comfort and practical technology and comprehensive AWD. The Fortuner’s ladder frame and true 4WD with low-range gearing contrast with others’ mostly monocoque AWD setups. MG Gloster leads in diesel power and space, while Jeep Meridian offers distinctive dual-pane sunroof and rugged suspension. The Tucson’s is the only car that offers a hybrid option, whereas Volkswagen Tiguan focuses on tech and driving dynamics. All models provide seven seats except Tucson and Tiguan with five, reflecting varied usage priorities.
All prices, ex-showroom, India
