What is it?
The Skoda Kodiaq PHEV is a plug-in hybrid version of Skoda’s popular large SUV, combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery. Offering up to 62 miles of electric-only range, the Kodiaq PHEV allows for eco-friendly urban driving while still providing the flexibility of a traditional engine for longer journeys. It retains the spacious five-seat layout and practicality the Kodiaq is known for, but ditches the seven-seat option to accommodate the battery. This model is aimed at families and company car users seeking a more efficient, low-emission SUV without sacrificing space or comfort.
Design and Styling
The 2024 Skoda Kodiaq PHEV retains the bold and functional design language that has become a hallmark of the Kodiaq range, with subtle updates to reflect its hybrid powertrain. Its overall shape remains robust and purposeful, ideal for a large family SUV, while new design details give it a more modern and premium feel.
At the front, the Kodiaq features Skoda’s signature grille, which is flanked by sleek LED headlights that enhance its sharp and confident appearance. The lower bumper has been slightly redesigned, giving the front end a more dynamic and chiselled look. The wide stance of the Kodiaq gives it a commanding presence on the road, while the clean lines along the sides add a touch of sophistication.
The rear of the Kodiaq is equally striking, with distinctive C-shaped LED taillights that enhance visibility and modernise the design. A roof spoiler and sculpted tailgate give the SUV a sleek finish, while the large rear windows offer excellent visibility for passengers.
The Kodiaq PHEV also includes unique design touches to highlight its electrified nature. For example, the charging port is discreetly integrated into the side of the vehicle, maintaining the overall clean and cohesive exterior styling. With practical features like roof rails and an optional panoramic sunroof, the Kodiaq PHEV is designed for both urban and adventurous use, blending functionality with contemporary design cues.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Kodiaq PHEV impresses with a modern and eco-friendly cabin. Many of the materials are made from recycled plastic bottles, and the leather used in higher trims has been tanned using coffee-bean waste, emphasising Skoda’s focus on sustainability. The overall design feels more premium than previous Skoda models, with a good balance of style and durability.
A 13-inch central touchscreen controls most functions, while the digital instrument cluster provides key driving information. Unlike some competitors, Skoda retains physical controls for the climate system, making it easier to adjust settings on the move. Additionally, the Kodiaq features “smart dials,” which allow quick access to adjust temperature, seat heating, and even the drive mode with minimal distraction.
Standard features include heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, and keyless start, though keyless entry requires an upgrade to the SE L trim.
Powertrain and Electric Range
The Kodiaq PHEV is powered by a combination of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 19.7kWh battery, producing a total output of 201bhp. Skoda claims an all-electric range of up to 62 miles (based on WLTP figures), which is more than enough for most daily commutes. This range is double that of Skoda’s previous plug-in hybrid models, none of which were SUVs, making the Kodiaq a standout in the lineup.
Unlike many PHEVs, the Kodiaq supports rapid charging at up to 50kW, meaning you can recharge its battery from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes at a public charging station. At home, a full charge using a wall box will take between 2 to 3 hours. With the petrol engine and electric motor combined, the Kodiaq PHEV boasts a total range of around 550 miles, making it a great choice for longer journeys when charging infrastructure may be limited.
Practicality
The Kodiaq is known for its practicality, and this remains true in its PHEV form. The second-generation Kodiaq has grown slightly in length compared to its predecessor, resulting in impressive cargo space. With all seats in place, the Kodiaq PHEV offers 745 litres of boot capacity. When you fold the rear seats down, this expands to a massive 1,945 litres, surpassing many estate cars and making it ideal for large families or those who need significant storage space.
However, the plug-in hybrid version lacks the seven-seat configuration found in the petrol and diesel models due to the space taken up by the battery. This means the Kodiaq PHEV is limited to five seats, which may disappoint those needing the extra passenger capacity. That said, the rear seats are spacious, with ample headroom and generous legroom, and the 60/40 split rear bench slides forwards and backwards to further enhance flexibility.
Skoda has also added its signature “Simply Clever” features, such as an ice scraper hidden in the fuel cap and an umbrella tucked into the door, alongside more practical touches like ventilated wireless phone charging and extra storage compartments.
Pricing and Running Costs
While Skoda hasn’t confirmed pricing for the Kodiaq PHEV yet, it’s expected to start at around £40,000. This puts it on par with many of its rivals, though it benefits from lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates for company car drivers thanks to its 11g/km CO2 emissions. This makes it a strong option for fleet buyers, as it falls into the 5% BiK bracket.
Verdict
The Skoda Kodiaq PHEV is a spacious, comfortable, and efficient family SUV that successfully makes the leap into the electrified future. While it lacks the seven-seat option of its petrol and diesel counterparts, its long electric range and well-appointed interior make it an attractive choice for families and company car users alike. However, potential buyers will need to carefully weigh the practicality of regular charging to fully capitalise on its efficiency benefits.
