The 2023 Skoda Kodiaq showcases its effortless cruising power at 215 km/h, handling and off-road prowess.
Skoda has recently relaunched its flagship model, the Kodiaq, which is now BS6 Phase 2 compliant. Starting at Rs 37.99 lakh, the seven-seater SUV is available in three trims and continues with the turbo petrol engine of 2 liters. The powertrain produces 187 hp and 320 Nm of torque and comes standard with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We got a chance to drive the SUV at breakneck speed at NATRAX, Asia’s longest test track, and also do some mild off-roading. Here are our first impressions of the 2023 Kodiaq.
Skoda Kodiaq: Rocksteady on high-speed track
Skoda wanted to showcase the Kodiaq’s capability and stability at high speeds. There’s no safer place than the NATRAX to push the Kodiaq’s limits and we were happy to oblige. Once out of the pitlane, all the instructor said was to put the pedal to the metal. With a wide four-lane track at our disposal, we stepped on the gas without a second thought. There is absolutely nothing linear about the response of the 2-liter powertrain. Pick up the pace quickly and before I knew it, the SUV was traveling at 200 km/h. As happy as I was with the two-and-a-half-ton vehicle effortlessly passing the 200 km/h mark, the instructor boredly looked at the 10.25-inch all-digital instrument panel and said : “You’re not driving. full throttle.” So much for my success! I muttered under my breath and set him down. To my surprise the digital numbers were heading north and we were cruising at 215km/h. The instructor shrugged and said, “Look.” Anyway, back to the Kodiaq, we hit a big turn of over 200km/h and the SUV held steady like a ship at anchor. The SUV didn’t meander into the other lane and thanks to the steering’s quick and direct response, there wasn’t even a nanosecond where I felt like I wasn’t in control of the SUV.
Also Read: 2023 Skoda Kodiaq SUV: Everything You Need To Know
Skoda Kodiaq: off-road mode
The Kodiaq is a tarmac-ready SUV, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take it to dirt and gravel tracks and have fun with it. Skoda had designed an off-road track for the Kodiag and being equipped with an all-wheel drive system, we engaged it in this mode. The track started with some joints that the SUV brushed aside with ease. Back on the dusty road, the Kodiaq stayed planted and smoothed out the undulations ensuring the ride quality was not compromised. When it came to steep grades, the petrol engine’s 320Nm took out the pulling power needed, but this is also where we missed the old 2-litre diesel engine which would have defended the conditions. The Kodiaq offers multiple driving modes such as Eco, Normal, Comfort, Sport, Individual and Snow, enhancing its grip capabilities. The Off-Road option reads important information on the multimedia display, such as approach and departure angles, compass and oil temperature. For a smooth road vehicle, the Kodiaq is a capable SUV, but with a ground clearance of 192mm, there’s the potential for underbody grazing. That aside, the Kodiaq is a versatile SUV that handles like a charm on tarmac and is respectable on dirt tracks.
