2016 Skoda Kodiaq relaunch: The plug-in hybrid with 100 km range

Test Drive Report Skoda Kodiaq Plug-in Hybrid: The Most Exciting Version

2025-06-02 From Peter Maahn/SP-X | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

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The Skoda Kodiaq, released in 2016, was already a bestseller before the start of its second generation. The relaunch now features a plug-in hybrid with more than 100 kilometers (approx. 62 miles) of electric range.

Quite a substantial car, the new Skoda Kodiaq.(Image: Skoda) — Quite a substantial car, the new Skoda Kodiaq.
(Image: Skoda)

A hefty piece of car, the new Skoda Kodiaq. Although it enters the upper mid-range class with a length of 4.76 meters (approx. 14.6 ft), it surpasses the all-electric flagship Enyaq by a good ten centimeters, even though it's only about 400 euros (457.08 USD) more expensive. This Kodiaq is a bit electric too—thanks to a plug-in hybrid. With a battery twice the size of its predecessor (25.7 kW), the classic combustion engine can be shut off for over 100 kilometers (approx. 62 miles). This charging technology at the power station is now shared by the Kodiaq with the noble limousine, Superb, the longest model with the Skoda logo at just over 4.90 meters (approx. 16.08 ft).

Now, the successful VW subsidiary from the Czech Republic is also discovering the dual-heart principle for itself. Let’s recall: It wasn’t that long ago that cars with rechargeable batteries combined with more or less powerful combustion engines fell out of favor. They offered only electric mini-ranges, often had charging cables in their original packaging in the trunk, and carried the disadvantage of lugging around two complete drive systems. When government incentives were largely cut, the fate of this type seemed sealed. Meanwhile, plug-in models offer decent ranges and charge faster.

Practical Range

This applies to the Kodiaq as well, whose loyal fans must first be convinced. The predecessor initially attracted only a handful of buyers to the showroom. The 2025 relaunch could now make the breakthrough. Interest is growing, even among regular working people who can commute from their suburban home to the city office from Monday to Friday on electric power and only need to worry about fresh electricity from their home wallbox over the weekend.

There, the battery is recharged in 2.5 hours. At the 50-kW fast charger, everything is done in 25 minutes. The total power of the front-wheel-drive matches that of the powerful all-wheel-drive petrol engine at 150 kW, so it’s no slouch. Those who enjoy frequent charging breaks can push the Kodiaq towards 210 km/h (approx. 130 mph) or launch from 0 to 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph) in 8.4 seconds with the combined power of both engines. However, electric pros will likely avoid doing so.

The significantly elongated body offers anything but restraint, providing an optical heft thanks to the designer's fine work. This is visible in the typically Skoda-shaped grille, whose vertical slats resemble a sculpture. New are the two-story headlight eyes with full LED matrix, whose internals suggest modern high-tech even during the day. The overall "Hey, look at me" effect is a tad more aggressive than the previous model.

Shift Lever for Seven-Speed DSG has been Relocated

In the interior, current Kodiaq drivers will need to adjust to new features. The control lever for the standard seven-speed DSG automatic transmission has been moved from the center console to the right side of the steering column, where it is operated with slight rotations. This is known from VW's ID models. Pressing the "P" symbol activates the parking mode. The centerpiece is a 12.9-inch monitor for navigation, numerous apps, and touchscreen controls. Three rotary knobs with LED internals also allow for classic manual adjustment, for example, for climate and heating. Chief designer Oliver Stefani states, "The combination of manual and digital controls meets the wishes of many customers and is as intuitive as it is comfortable."

Behind the steering wheel, a 10.25-inch display provides necessary driving information. This creates a distinct step between the two screens, but thanks to the generous dimensions and the excellent representation of the larger monitor, it is a welcome trade-off. In the base versions of the new Kodiaq, the central display is two inches smaller. Additionally, a head-up display for the windshield can be ordered.

Impressive Smoothness

The new smoothness in the large Skoda SUV is convincing. Among the four possible combustion engines, only the 1.5-liter engine working in the hybrid is noticeably audible, despite meticulous soundproofing. This engine naturally struggles a bit more with the Czech giant, especially when accelerating or driving uphill. Praiseworthy is the inclusion of a so-called mild hybrid, which is reserved for this engine. A generator powered by a small battery supplies various electrical consumers, such as the starter. Additionally, this Kodiaq features the known cylinder deactivation, where two of the four cylinders are deactivated when not needed.

For connoisseurs, the tour is best in the top models: The two-liter gasoline engine (150 kW/204 HP) climbs tight switchbacks thanks to all-wheel drive and electronic damping. The responsive and precise steering is sure to excite traditionalists, as are the flawless brakes when the Kodiaq is pulled back down to the valley by gravity. Top marks are also given for the stability with which the Skoda counters physical inclinations in quickly maneuvered curves. In slightly more contemplative form, this also applies to the top diesel with 142 kW/193 HP, which is also blessed with all-wheel drive. Ultimately, however, the plug-in hybrid remains the most exciting version of the new Kodiaq.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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Gallery

Now the successful VW subsidiary from the Czech Republic has also discovered the dual-heart principle for itself.(Image: Skoda)

At 4.76 meters (approx. 15.6 ft) in length, the largest SUV in the Skoda universe competes in the upper mid-range class.(Image: Skoda)

The Kodiaq offers its front passengers superior comfort, plenty of space, and a cozy atmosphere.(Image: Skoda)

Inside, previous Kodiaq owners will need to adapt, as the shift lever for the seven-speed DSG has moved to the steering column.(Image: Skoda)

Gallery with 6 images

Price List Open-Ended

The prices are not astronomical, in keeping with Skoda tradition, but reflect the variety of numerous features scattered throughout the Kodiaq. Almost all known assistance systems are available for order. New at Skoda is a remote control app for mobile phones, allowing the Kodiaq to be maneuvered into tight parking spaces via Bluetooth after the driver has exited.

The new Kodiaq will also confidently secure a spot in the registration charts, even if rivals from around the world are lying in wait. They come from China as well as from its own parent company. The all-electric Enyaq or its smaller counterpart Elroq are bestsellers among electric vehicles in Europe.