Skoda Kodiaq (2017-2024) - Reliability and safety

The Kodiaq sits on the MQB platform that first debuted on the Skoda Superb. It also serves as the underpinnings for the SEAT Ateca and Volkswagen Tiguan, and almost all of the powertrains and technology can be found in numerous other VW Group’s models as well. It's still a little too early to say for sure, but part sharing should make the cars more reliable as any problems should have been identified on previous models.

The Kodiaq finished 14th in our list of the best cars to own based on owners’ feedback from the 2023 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey. Praise was given for its practicality, versatility, ride quality and value for money. That said, it has performed better in previous years; the Kodiaq came fifth in the best cars to own rankings in 2022, and sixth in 2021.

Meanwhile, Skoda as a brand finished 20th in the best car manufacturer rankings – behind rivals such as Hyundai and Kia, but ahead of others such as Volkswagen and Renault.

With seven airbags fitted as standard across the range, plus autonomous braking with a pedestrian monitor and multi-collision brake, to stop secondary impacts after a crash, it’s no surprise the Kodiaq achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Lane assist and a blind spot detection system come as standard on Laurin & Klement model, while a driver fatigue sensor is optional across all versions.

The 2021 facelift included improvements to some of the Kodiaq's safety systems: the automatic emergency braking system can now recognise pedestrians and cyclists, while the rear-facing radar sensors can detect if the car is about to be hit from behind, and can prepare the cabin accordingly in a split second.

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Warranty

Skoda offers the Kodiaq with a typical (but unremarkable) three-year/60,000-mile warranty as standard. In comparison, the Kia Sorento which comes with seven years of cover as standard, while the Hyundai Santa Fe gets a five-year factory warranty. There is the option to extend the Kodiaq’s warranty up to five years and have the mileage capped at 100,000 miles for additional peace of mind, though.

Servicing 

Instead of a firmly established service schedule, Kodiaq buyers get a choice of a fixed or flexible service regime. The fixed plan involves having your car serviced every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first, while the flexible schedule will see a service light show after between 9,000 and 20,000 miles or up to 24 months, whichever comes first.

Of course, Skoda offers numerous service plans for its cars, including one to cover the first two services on the Kodiaq for a little over £450. It also provides customers with the option to spread the cost of scheduled maintenance or simply add it to your existing finance agreement.