Upcoming Skoda Kodiaq replacement spotted as a test mule
Skoda’s largest SUV will return with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid power available
Despite the Skoda Kodiaq’s recent facelift in 2021, images of the next-generation model are already surfacing. The test car we spotted is using the current Kodiaq’s body, however we have a good idea as to what will underpin Skoda’s seven-seat SUV when it launches in 2024.
Having launched in 2016, the Kodiaq utilised parent company Volkswagen’s MQB A2 platform - which sits under similar-sized family SUVs such as the Volkswagen Tiguan and SEAT Tarraco. We expect this new model to benefit from the updated MQB Evo architecture, first seen in 2019 on the current Mk8 Golf.
MQB Evo is a versatile platform, with the new Ford Connect van, Audi A3 hatchback and Cupra Formentor SUV all using it. Skoda currently has just one car on MQB Evo, our 2020 Car of the Year - the Octavia.
Like the Octavia, we expect the next-generation Kodiaq will offer a range of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with diesel and petrol variants. MEB is VW Group’s pure-electric powertrain so we won’t see a fully-electric Kodiaq, because that position will eventually be filled by the Vision 7S concept. The test car we’ve spotted uses plenty of vRS trim but that doesn’t necessarily mean the sporty badge will carry over to the new model.
As for the interior, the Kodiaq will most likely borrow plenty of technology from the VW Group stable. We’re likely to see two 10-inch infotainment displays on the dash, borrowed from the current Golf and all the safety features VW Group cars of the Kodiaq’s size currently offer.
Given the lifespan of the outgoing Kodiaq, the new model will almost certainly be the last one offered with petrol and diesel engines ahead of VW’s switch to pure-electric cars.
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