Czech automaker Skoda has finally unveiled the much-anticipated new Kodiaq SUV in Berlin. The SUV is expected to hit Indian roads by September 2017, and the Indian market is expected to get the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine with 7-speed DSG. The Skoda Kodiaq is apparently the first ever 7-seater model from the company, which gets several design and styling cues from the new Superb. The SUV’s name is inspired by the Alaskan bear – the Kodiaq, and aptly so as it looks quite like a bear with its muscular design and off-roader-like appeal. According to Skoda, the Kodiaq is a family car that can easily traverse harsh terrain. The SUV is built upon Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, and its top-of-the-line variant gets the latest version of VW Group’s traverse engine AWD system.
“Our products will change we will offer completely new services around the car. The Skoda Kodiaq spearheads that development. We will be on the top range of our segment with extraordinary value for money. What’s new is not just our C-sign language but state of the art technologies. With it we’ve got the most modern and youngest model range of all time,” said Bernhard Maier, CEO and Member of Board, Skoda Auto.
Skoda Kodiaq Interiors and Exteriors
The SUV was designed by Jozef Kaban, head of design at Skoda Auto. As already mentioned, its shares most of its design cues with the new Superb. The front gets a very similar grille surrounded by a chrome border, along with a pair of LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Besides, the exteriors also feature stylish ORVMs, sporty alloys, long roof rails, along with sharp LED tail lamps.
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Skoda Kodiaq Specs
Under the hood, the India-bound Skoda Kodiaq features a 2.-litre TDI diesel engine that churns out either 150hp or 190hp, and 340Nm and 400Nm of torque respectively. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a DSG dual clutch automatic. In addition, there’s a 2.0-litre TSI petrol variant, which produces 180hp of power and 320Nm of torque, though may not be launched initially and is expected to arrive later.
The production of the Skoda Kodiaq is expected to begin in October this year. While there’s no official word on pricing, it is expected to be priced in the range of Rs.25 lakh-Rs 30 lakh.